A mix of art by aspiring and professional painters will be on display at the Pynelogs Art Gallery and Cultural Centre from May 15 to 27. The two-week long exhibition showcases the creative work of the Purcell Mountain Painters, a local collective that’s dedicated to supporting the development of artists from all walks of life in the Columbia Valley.
“It’s an eclectic group, different styles, there’s always a fair bit of landscape but some of the members are into portraiture as well,” said Laila Jensen, a Purcell Mountain Painter member and the facilitator of this year’s showing.
The painters are an informal group that meets on a regular basis for workshops and painting sessions. With a focus of fostering emerging and local hobby artists, the group also includes more established artists who have had showings in other galleries.
“There are 18 artists in the show this year,” said Jensen. “It should be a really good show; I’m excited about it.”
As Pynelogs can hold up to about 100 pieces of art work, the group’s members are providing between four to seven pieces each in a variety of styles including oils, acrylics and watercolours, she said. Jensen’s own contribution will include mixed media.
Opening night takes place Wednesday (May 16) between 7 and 9 p.m. at the gallery with several artists in attendance and a cash bar providing drinks and snacks.
This is the group’s fourth show, said Pynelogs manager Jami Scheffer.
“Purcell Mountain Painters in an emerging artist group,” Scheffer said. “Because we’re a non-profit local community art council, we support what they’re doing and we have the facility for them.”
All the artwork is available for purchase with the gallery managing the sales transactions. As with other shows, Pynelogs will be taking a 30 per cent commission from any sales with the artists receiving 70 per cent of the asking price.
The Purcell Mountain Painters are also holding a complimentary tea and treats day at the gallery on Sunday, May 20 between noon and 4 p.m. The afternoon will feature at least one live painting demonstration and many of the painters will be present.
“So people can drop by, look at the art and chat with some of the artists, and enjoy tea and coffee and snacks,” Jensen said.
The Purcell Mountain Painters art exhibit runs from Tuesday (May 15) through to Sunday, May 27 at the Pynelogs Art Gallery, which is located adjacent to Kinsmen Beach in Invermere, at 1720 4th Avenue.
The gallery and cafe is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and admission is free. For more information on the painters, visit their blog at www.purcellmountainpainters.blogspot.com. Visit www.columbiavalleyarts.com to learn more about the arts in the Columbia Valley and other upcoming exhibits.