The arts community in Vanderhoof is growing, with over 100 artists showcasing their work this week.
The Nechako Valley Community Arts Council is holding an Anonymous art show from Sept. 24 until Sept. 28 at the Burrard Market.
“The Anonymous art show is to help us, and all of Vanderhoof recognize the talent we have here,” says Magdalena Saito, a member of the district’s art council.
Over 120 canvasses were sold by the council, she said, adding she is excited about promoting and finding new artists in town.
“I didn’t even know that there were all of these artists that I have never heard of, and I am so excited to recognize all the amazing talent we have here,” Saito said.
Such high participation for a local arts event takes Saito back to the idea that Vanderhoof started as an arts community.
“I always think of that and that we (artists) are all here. Just hidden,” she said.
From Tuesday until Friday, the Burrard Market will be displaying all the art work from 10 am until 5 pm. On Saturday, Saito said, the main reception will be held from 5 pm until 7 pm. Here people will be able to buy any of the art pieces they like, which are being sold on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Most of the artists should be at the exhibition too, Saito said, noting this event will help bring a lot of exposure to the arts community.
The arts council hopes to inspire the youth through this event, and local teachers are planning a field trip to the exhibition as well.
The pieces of art are being sold for $30 each, with 90 percent of the revenue going back to the artists and 10 percent to the arts council. They are in the works of saving money for a future arts facility in the district, Saito said.
The Anonymous Art Show will be an annual event, and Saito hopes that next year they are able to expand their territory by inviting people from across B.C. and Canada to send in their work for display.
“It would be nice to be able to have online auctions so we have people bidding from all over,” Saito said.
The exhibition is a good opportunity for businesses too, she said, noting it would be wonderful to see these canvasses up on walls of local businesses. “And because its an annual event, imagine over 10 years what a wall could look like!”
Aman Parhar
Editor, Vanderhoof Omineca Express
aman.parhar@ominecaexpress.com
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