One of the region’s most anticipated annual art exhibitions is taking shape this week, with jurors selecting 110 stellar pieces for the fourth annual Nanaimo Fine Art Show.
From a large number of submissions, the three-juror panel has selected works representing the diversity of talent here in Nanaimo and from around Vancouver Island.
Hosted by the Nanaimo chapter of the Federation of Canadian Artist, the 2019 Fine Art Show will fill the Vancouver Island Conference Centre’s Dodd Narrows Room with exceptional artwork Nov. 1 to 3. There is no admission fee and plenty of parking at the VICC.
“This work, along with our Signature Showcase hanging in the VICC hall, celebrates the diversity and quality of visual art from talented local artists, and I think visitors will be impressed by the breadth of work,” reflects show chair Charlotte Mougeot.
Beyond the beautiful coastal landscapes and traditional styles, for example, you’ll find interesting contemporary approaches, vibrant abstracts, and much more.
“Come be surprised,” Mougeot says. “Once in a while, a piece of art connects the artist and the viewer in a unique way. We all hope that you’ll experience such moments in our show.”
The Nanaimo Chapter of the Federation of Canadian Artists includes close to 100 individuals from across the Island, mainly from the Nanaimo area. The local chapter supports members with several workshops, demos and shows throughout the year, along with monthly meetings for learning and networking.
The annual Fine Art Show is a highlight of the year for both Federation members and art enthusiasts, and the group is thankful for the support of sponsors and the City of Nanaimo.
Here’s a look at this year’s Fine Art Show:
Celebrated talents: Jurors for this year are Dene Croft, president of the Federation of Canadian Artists, Leslie Gregory-Morgan, and John Stuart Pryce, and each has also included one of their paintings in the exhibition’s Signature Show.
Winning selections: Jurors have selected first-, second- and third-place winners, plus an Honorary Mention Award. New for this year, each juror can also select one work of their choice for a Juror’s Award, Mougeot notes. Award winners will be announced Friday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. Enjoy live music and cash bar – come and celebrate!
Signature show: As a companion exhibit to the Fine Art Show, the Signature Show recognizes members who’ve achieved FCA Associate or Signature status. View this show in the hallway adjacent to the Dodd Narrows Room, where work by the three jurors will be joined by work by senior local artists Claudia Lohman, Tom Shardlow, Eunmi Conacher, Birgit Coath, Karel Doruyter, Therese Johnston and Gary Whitley.
People’s choice: Which artwork is your favourite? Don’t forget to cast your ballot for the 2019 People’s Choice Award. (Last year’s winner, Joanne Giesbrecht’s Birds of a Feather Beach Murder Mystery, was selected to advertise this year’s show.)
A daily draw: As a thank you to show visitors, organizers host a daily draw for a painting by a participating artist, including Majie Lavergne, Joanne Giesbrecht, Gary Whitley and Sarah Boileau! Leave your business card or fill the ballot and drop it in the container, with one ballot allowed each day.
Learn more about the Nanaimo Federation of Canadian Artists at nanaimofca.com, follow them on Facebook, and visit them at the show!
