A new exhibition at Anvil Centre is offering up an abstracted view of the world through the eyes of PotteryWorks artists.
The Abstracted View opens with a virtual reception on Friday, Jan. 8 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. It continues until March 5 at the Community Art Gallery on the third floor of Anvil Centre.
The new exhibition features the work of Linda Raudonus, Geoffrey Lee, Jon Foxton, Robert Bell, Tom Mackie and Jon Koury. They’re all members of the Colour Collective, a group of painters within the PotteryWorks collective of artists.
A press release notes the Colour Collective has been in existence for more than 19 years, and these six artists have been integral participants for most of that time.
“As artists overcoming disability through the practice of art, they have used the medium as a platform to integrate with their community and be recognized as contributors to it,” a press release says. “The development of their skill is therapeutic, contributing to improved hand-eye coordination and concentration – but the improvement in their self-esteem is the most important benefit.”
The release notes that the ability to express their view through abstraction is a transformative one for artists on the autism spectrum and those with other disabilities.
“Each of these six artists has a unique view to offer us, an expression of their experience and communication with us,” the release says.
With COVID-19 restrictions in place, the Community Art Gallery can be visited by appointment only. It’s open from Wednesdays through Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m., although certain times may not be available due to conflicts with other activities in Anvil Centre.
To receive a Zoom link for the opening reception, email hbennett@newwestcity.ca.
To book an in-person visit to the exhibition, email artsservices@newwestcity.ca and provide your name, phone number and preferred date and time to visit. A staff member will get back to you as soon as possible.
All booking requests require at least 48 hours’ notice, and up to six guests are permitted per booking. All guests are required to wear a mask, unless precluded for medical reasons. Visitors under the age of two are also exempt from mask requirements.
The Anvil Centre is at 777 Columbia St.
