A long standing tradition of collaboration between the Campbell River Art Gallery (CRAG) and Campbell River Arts Council is here again, the 42nd Annual Members’ Show, giving center stage to the diverse artists in our community.
“The Members’ Show continues to be the primary focal point for showcasing the amazing creativity and diversity of talent that lives in our community.” says Ken Blackburn, Executive Director of the Campbell River Arts Council. “It is also a snapshot of the strength and health of our cultural sector. The Members’ Show is a true asset for Campbell River and after 42 years we are still going strong!”
The exhibition features artists from the North Island and Campbell River area as they display never-before-shown work created within the last three years. A time-honoured tradition, the exhibition dates back even before the CRAG became the city’s public art gallery.
Sara Lopez Assu, Executive Director of the Campbell River Art Gallery says, “It’s always an honour to feature local talent, and the Annual Members’ Show, a crowd favourite, never disappoints. We’re so grateful for all the community support and excited to host this beloved event for its 42nd year!”
The opening reception held on Jan. 13 carried a hum of excitement as attendees filled the halls of the gallery to get a first chance to see the show. The exhibition was welcomed by Hereditary Chiefs James Quatell and Shawn Decaire.
“When you fill a room full of art you are filling a room full of stories, that can captivate, can encourage, and motivate life — to look at things in a different way,” says Decaire. “That’s what art is, that’s what art does to us.”
The exhibition also features programming that extends artistic practice through Life Drawing classes and an upcoming in-person Critique hosted by Blackburn on March 9. All programs are barrier-free (by donation) and registration can be done on the CRAG’s website.
The 42nd Annual Members’ Show, presented by the Campbell River Art Gallery and the Campbell River Arts Council continues its run until March 9.