Experience Art This Summer

Summertime is abuzz with creations all around us.  And we human beings have a plethora of ways to create.  

The visual arts can express things that take us beyond words.  A painting, a sculpture, a beautifully crafted ceramic or glasswork can awaken something deep within us and leave us mesmerized.  Great art connects us through our experiences of what it means to be human. 

Have you ever felt like crawling into a painting?  Or perhaps you've felt enveloped by an artist's particular use of colour?   

If you wish, you can immerse yourself in the works of Vincent van Gogh starting tomorrow.  The Niagara Falls Convention Centre will be hosting a spectacular art exhibit that lets you experience these masterpieces in a dynamic, new way. 

Does great art inspire you to create something of your own?  If you or any young ones in your life wish to learn a few techniques, consider taking a course. 

The Niagara Pumphouse is holding several in-studio and online workshops this summer.  There are hands-on classes on colour mixing and sculpture, as well as a lecture on creating a solvent-free studio, among other options. 

Perhaps you're not artisitically inclined, but you have an appreciation for the visual arts and delight in observation.  You may enjoy visiting one of the four exhibits taking place at the pumphouse this summer:

• The paintings of Old & New Robert Crosby  runs until July 26th.
• Allegories: A Solo Exhibit by Niagara-on-the-Lake artist Lynne Gaetz from August 2th through the 28th.  An opening reception takes place the afternoon of August 7th. 
• Continuing until July 22nd, the artworks of members will be displayed.  The exhibition theme is 'A Celebration of Gardens'.
• Starting August 5th and running until October 16h, the artworks submitted for the 2022 Niagara-on-the-Lake Hydro Box Beautification Competition will be exhibited. 

One of the benefits of summer is being able to enjoy art outdoors.   

The Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre Art Show and Sale returns this year as an in-person event July 30th and 31st, which will include live music and refreshments.  An online version is also underway and will run until August 7th.  It will include original works in a variety of mediums including painting, sculpture, glass, pottery, jewellery, woodwork, textiles and photography.  

The DIY option
Another way to appreciate art this summer is to create an event yourself.  Pick up the art materials and tools of your choice, invite a a friend or two over and pull out some easels or a table and chairs onto the lawn.  Or find a spot in the park.  Enjoy some time sketching, painting watercolours, scrapbooking or whatever creative pursuit you find fun. 

Did a little birdie hear us? 
You may recall us lamenting a few weeks ago, during our issue on the return of Doors Open, that Niagara wasn't partaking.  Well, it turns out there will be a Doors Opens event this year for Niagara-on-the-Lake in October!  So far, we see nine locations listed on the website.  Click anywhere on this paragraph for more details.

     

Our shop is often a gathering place for creative souls.  We love hearing about what you're making or experimenting with or things you've created. We wish you a week of many creative experiences and pleasures!