by Doreen Marion Gee –
In the essay Arts and Positive Change in Communities (Creative City Network of Canada, 2005), the authors conclude that “Arts and culture make considerable and necessary contributions to the well-being of communities.” A few highlights: The Arts encourage creative thinking abilities; reduce isolation and give people a chance to network and make social connections; and promote public engagement and community involvement. Artisans Gift Gallery at the Community Arts Centre in Tulista Park is a shining example, bringing the extraordinary talents of local artists into public view. In the end, our community is enriched beyond measure.
Dale MacEwan’s home in Sidney resembles a small art gallery – her exquisite fabric art creations adorn the walls. As coordinator of the upcoming Artisans Gift Gallery by the Community Arts Council of the Saanich Peninsula, she talks passionately about the event: “It features local artists and provides a chance for them to showcase and sell their work. Two years ago, we opted to have just one Artisans show from September to December” – adding a holiday theme in November. “We try to have a balanced show so that no one medium dominates.” During the three months, artists often add different works to their collection. The creative exhibit features painting, pottery, fabric art, weaving, woodworking, glass-making, jewelry – just to name a few. Dale gives special mention to Dianne Cross, a key figure in the genesis of Artisans in 1994: “She has been helping to keep it going until last year and has done an amazing job!”
One goal of Artisans is to showcase and promote the talents of new artisans, raising their profile in the community. As well as recognized artists, “we also want to support and encourage people who are just starting out and have never shown or sold their work before.” This brings needed attention to their skills in creating beauty that bewitches the viewer. Everything is designed to support and boost confidence in new artists, giving them the best chance at success. Submissions are “lightly-juried:” if the work needs improvements, suggestions are made for acceptance. Dale adds: “The artists also have a chance to talk to visitors and do demonstrations for the public.” This opportunity to network with like-minded locals could be the golden key that unlocks a prosperous career in the Arts.
Dale recognizes the positive impacts of Artisans on the community: “Local people love to come in and support our artists – many of them buy Christmas gifts here.” After subtracting artists’ commissions, money from sales helps maintain the strong vibrant presence of The Arts Centre on the Peninsula. Bliss is a common denominator: “People are thrilled with the art. They say best show ever! ” Community benefits abound: “It creates positive connections between people. Art adds so much to a community; it brings joy to people.” For seven years Kathy Demchuk has been gracing Artisans with her original fabric art pieces: “I feel that the event has been a gift for me. The community appreciation towards my creative endeavours is very important to me.”
Art brings out the best in people. Artisans Gift Gallery is helping to forge a healthy thriving community on the Peninsula.
Info/call to artists: www.cacsp.com. Artist registration: September 6. Event: September 24 to December 23. Have fun everybody!
Photo of Dale MacEwan’s work courtesy Doreen Marion Gee.
