A local gallery that is predominantly attended by female artists, Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre (JCHAC) will adorn its walls with the works of nine male artists. This exhibition is called "The Men of Joshua Creek".
A featured artist is Hugh Calverley, my late father. Born in 1894, his work is about the excitement of entering the world of painting and drawing at the age of 66. The youngest artist at Joshua Creek is Tsochoy Go, who was born 100 years later. Tsochoy is a digital illustrator and Artist-in-Residence, who comes from a generation inspired by science fiction and computer graphics.
This exhibition is a cross-section of art by men of all ages and stages, who use pencils, pens, watercolours, oils acrylics and digital media. Some have just begun their journey into art, and others have spent their lives as artists. Some pieces are unusual, and all have impact. The show is meant to encourage viewers to take a leap and explore a whole new world of art.
Each Artist has a Story
Two more family members are represented in the show. Leo Rampen, Executive Producer of CBC's Man Alive, says he is "interested in the radiance of ordinary things and how situations provide unexpected insights". Leo's son, Dick Rampen, has taught Industrial Design at OCAD for over 30 years. He has a sense of the moment. He's a delightful observer of reality, trees, birds and the life of a landscape.
Bill Ellis, previous Director of the Oakville Camera Club, has an in-depth knowledge of the technical secrets of cameras, demonstrated by his captivating photographs. Cam Hourd renders fine line drawings and paintings of trees, barns, churches, buildings and landscapes, most from the Oakville area.
Abdul Khan and Gord McFaull, both members of the JCHAC Board of Directors, enjoy the process of discovering the artist within. Khan worked for the United Nations in charge of International Communications.
David Slabotsky uses kinetic line drawing and simplified yet powerful watercolours to bring his imagination to life. Sybil states, "His life on the island of Lasquete as a young man is poignant and remembered with ocean blueness and ferryboats, and his Pink Bouquet is just that - the pinkest bouquet possible."
There will be an opening reception on Sunday, October 23, 2016 from 2:00 - 5:00 pm at the Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre. The public is invited, and admission is by donation to the gallery. The exhibition runs until November 27, 2016.