Artwork crafted by artists from across Vancouver Island will be on display at a local gallery.
The Lantzville Art Gallery opened its latest exhibit called Island Masters this past Friday. The exhibition features art work from 28 artists, mostly from Nanaimo and Lantzville.
Danica Reyes, exhibit curator, said it’s all about showcasing artists from Vancouver Island.
“I wanted to give the artists the opportunity to exhibit their talents in a professional yet friendly environment,” Reyes said. “I tend to call the gallery the little village gallery with the big heart.”
Island Masters showcases a variety of different artistic styles, including pieces from Lantzville-based artists Pauline Howell, Aleta Crawford, Laura Doell and Alexe Lohvinen. Reyes, who also has a few pieces in the exhibit, said there are watercolour and acrylic paintings and drawings.
She said the gallery is happy to showcase work from interested artists.
“I basically work with artists who wish to work with me, who are professional enough to understand that they need representation that maybe don’t feel like doing the art fair circuit,” said Reyes.
The Island Masters exhibit was meant to challenge artists to create pieces that either draw inspiration from great artists or, at the very least, bring out the artists’ best work, according to Reyes. She said she selected artists based on the quality of their work and that she didn’t have ask anyone to participate in the exhibit.
“For the most part they find me. I don’t solicit artists and I don’t try to track them down. They find me,” Reyes said. “There was a lot of interest in the exhibit.”
Reyes said pieces in the exhibit are available for purchase and hopes those who attend the exhibit walk away enlightened.
“I hope they leave here feeling inspired,” she said.
Island Masters runs until Aug. 3 at the Lantzville Art Gallery at 7217 Lantzville Rd.
For more information, visit www.lantzvilleartgallery.com.