The opportunity to explore the working space of an artist is like a glimpse into a treasure box, or like being let in on a precious secret.
That experience is being offered to visitors to the Quadra Island Studio Tour on June 4 and 5.
With map in hand, explore the creative spaces on the island where the artists spend much of their year working on projects, exploring ideas and creating wondrous and beautiful objects to be revealed on this big weekend event.
Starting from the north end of the tour, check out the fabulous sculpture and inspiring surroundings of stone carver Lee Gass.
Be amazed by the presence in the portraits by Perrin Sparks and enjoy a demonstration of her printmaking technique.
At Kathryn Manry’s studio try your hand at printing a woodblock print and check out her luscious paintings of water. Numerous artists display their work at the Community Centre, which is also a great place for a delicious lunch.
While there, check out the exhibition on the stage for a sampling of all the artists participating in the tour.
Kevin MacKenzie’s enthusiasm for his chosen media is infectious as he demonstrates his techniques for cutting and colouring metal. Nanci Cook creates vibrant acrylic abstracts and landscapes.
Off of Noble Road, find several painters: Maureen Maryka depicts skies filled with light and colour, Gail Rankin’s work is evocative of her garden and coastal environment, and Perry Johnston captures the nuances of the landscape in watercolour.
Also on Noble Road, Nick Knuit’s skilled carvings in antlers show how artists are inspired by their materials. At Perriwinkle Cottage, Helen Lee’s wonderful watercolours are on display.
Further south, John Hansen does amazing things with glass and Gary Falck creates lovely organic designs in raku fired clay.
James Pottery is always a delight both for the wonderful ceramics and for the beautiful location at the south tip of the island.
And this is just a sampling of what is in store as you explore around Quadra Island.
There will be over 30 artists making themselves and their creative spaces available to visitors.
View the artwork, chat with the artists, experience their working spaces and learn what inspires them. It is a great way to celebrate the visual arts and perhaps to take home some artwork that will delight you for years to come.
Tickets can be purchased for $5 per person (kids under 12 are free) from:
- Inspirations Office and Art Supply (Quadra Isl.)
- Quadra Tourist Info Centre
- Campbell River Public Art Gallery
- Comox Valley Art Gallery (Courtenay)
For more information visit www.quadraislandarts.com
See Martha James’ amazing pottery is on view during the Quadra Island Studio tour June 4-5.