Most art exhibits feature the works of a few artists, and often just one, so we get to see a range of expression in dozens of creations by the same person or persons. But so-called members’ shows, like Present Tense, currently at Gibsons Public Art Gallery (GPAG), offer us instead a range of pieces by a whole community.
There are 79 works in the show – one submission per member/artist – featuring mostly oil and acrylic paintings, but also mixed media, fibre, photography, and pottery. An added feature is a set of 16 children’s chairs that local artists have repainted, and which are to be auctioned off as a fundraiser for Sunshine Coast Grandmothers and Grand Others. Online bidding is open until 8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13.
“This is one of my favourite shows,” said Christina Symons, GPAG’s new manager, who has succeeded the retiring Michael Aze. “This show to me is so much about acceptance, awareness and celebration in the community. Everyone is welcome to show a piece. We have very well-established artists next to very early, emerging artists, and everything looks beautiful together.”
Given the variety, there’s something at this exhibit that just about every art fan can enjoy. A few works take the Present Tense title and theme literally, depicting coronaviruses as part of their imagery. As Symons noted, recognizable names like Christy Sverre, Brian Romer, Paula O’Brien, Kasia Krolikowska, and Alan Sirulnikoff are well represented, as are many artists who are showing for the first time. All works are for sale, a condition of submission to the show, which is also a fundraiser for this public gallery.
Symons is known locally as a freelance writer and photographer, but she also brings considerable administrative experience to her new position. “My background is in marketing and communications. That’s what I studied in university,” Symons told Coast Reporter. “And prior to going freelance, I was with a large [Vancouver] architectural company, managing the communications and marketing for a 100-person firm.” Along with a dedicated board of directors and corps of volunteers, this is an institution that remains in good hands.
Present Tense runs at GPAG until Dec. 21.
