– by Gillian Crowley –
First Nations, Inuit and Métis Art Show
This is a fabulous way to learn more about First Peoples’ arts and crafts and talk with the artists. Now in its sixth year – and for the second time at the Mary Winspear Centre – this event will showcase paintings, sculpture, pottery, beadwork and jewelry and is a chance to appreciate both traditional and modern interpretations of the three cultures. Works are by local Coast Salish and Northwest Coast artists as well as Métis, Mohawk, Blackfoot, Cree, Ojibwa, Navajo, Inuit and Chickasaw Nations. Free entry. All work for sale. Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney, Aug. 8 to Sept. 4, http://marywinspear.ca.
Art, Music AND Cars
Over two days more than 60 new and returning artists will display their work amid the stunning HCP gardens. Chat with the artists and listen to musicians strategically located around the site. Another part of this fundraiser for the Centre is the auto eye candy ranging from a 1936 Ford Coupe to a 1978 MGB Roadster. Children’s activities too! The admission fee is good for both days. Horticultural Centre of the Pacific, 505 Quayle Rd. (off Interurban) Aug. 9 to 10, 11 am – 5 pm both days. 250-479-6162 or http://hcp.ca.
Coastal Images Reimagined
The Island’s coastal beauty is captured in paintings and art photography on display now at Village Gallery. Barry Tate, a local acrylic and watercolour artist, is noted for his unique interpretive style and bold use of colour. His paintings of coastal scenery reflect a passion for life and the sea. In a different medium, Eiko Jones’ photography showcases views of surreal underwater scenes and topside images in a dramatic style created through awareness of lighting and unique angles. Barry Tate will be painting his interpretive landscapes live at the Village Gallery on Saturday August 9th from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Everyone welcome to meet and greet with Barry and enjoy his collection of acrylic works on canvas. Drop in to admire the works by these artists and perhaps consider a purchase. Village Gallery, 2459 Beacon Ave, Sidney.
Eclectic Music Amid the Flowers
Butchart Gardens continues its summer music program each evening as part of the garden admission fee. Depending on the day, visitors might enjoy ballet, folk singers, big band sound or jazz. On August 3rd to 4th Ballet Etoile’s innovative choreography will interpret both modern and classical dances. Then, for something completely different, well-known Canadian folk singer-songwriter James Keelaghan will play August 7th followed August 14th by Quartette, Canada’s “music royalty” with Sylvia Tyson, Cindy Church, Catlin Hanford and Gwen Swick. All shows start at 7:30 pm. See the complete August program at www.butchartgardens.com/activities/calendar or phone 250-652-4422.Butchart Gardens, 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay.
Tulista Art Gallery
The Gallery presents new works by painter Mary Feesey and son ceramic artist John Feesey in their first show together. At 90, Mary is one of the early arts leaders in the community and is still going strong. Her landscapes and nature scenes are strongly influenced by the Group of Seven. John works with hand-thrown translucent porcelain creating functional pieces with a shimmering quality. August 1st through 10th.
A collaboration of paintings and art photography by Jacqui Austin and Gabriel Taschereau takes place August 11th to 17th followed by Maureen Walker and Ruth Fowler August 18th to 25th with Dye on Silk and Watercolour creations. The month ends with Lisa Scott’s photography on canvas of Peninsula wildlife August 26th to September 1st. Much to see and admire!
Don’t Miss Cirque Peking
Coming September 7th, shows at 2 and 7:00 p.m. at the University of Victoria, Farquhar Auditorium. Tickets online or phone 250-721-8480.
