It is hard to believe that summer is over — where did it go? Well, it is time to get back to regular living and checking out the new art displays at the Creston Valley Public Library and the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce should be part of your regular schedule.
Art in the Library offers a wonderful display called “Vibrant Variety” (try to say that three times in a row) and features five Creston-area artists. Come and see the wonderfully colourful acrylics of Richard Mitton, the always exciting mixed media paintings of Shelly Lamb, the intricate detail work of Grace Tyler, the peaceful landscapes by Kurtis Lander and the charming paintings of pups and flowers by Emmie Bennis. You can see this vibrant display during library hours until Nov. 1; please leave a note in the guest book so the artists will know you came.
The Art in the Chamber display is something a little different this time: Visitors will be treated to three separate exhibits. “Art in Glass Cabinets” features artists whose work is smaller than average, art perfect for small gifts or treats. The fascinating encaustic art of Caroleen Lucas is full of colour and mystery, with something new to be seen every time you look. The charming beach art jewelry of Margaret Swetlishoff offers an unusual reminder of those sunny days at the beach. This part of the display starts ends on Oct. 30.
The second exhibit at the chamber is “Core Matters: Farm and Food”. This is a special display by nine area artists who are using art to show the importance of farming in Creston. The exhibiting artists are Andy and Elaine Alfoldy, Eileen Gidman, Karen Arrowsmith, Ute Bachinski, Eileen Hirota, Sandy Kunze, James McDowell and Carol Schloss.
“We believe the breadth of approaches to the theme ‘Core Matters: Farm and Food’ employed by each artist from realism to semi-abstraction will be of interest to viewers, as well as aesthetically pleasing,” said the artists about the display.
The “Core Matters” exhibit ends on Oct. 3. Come down and see how these artists interpret the importance of farming in our valley.
The third part of Art in the Chamber will be a display by three well known “Creston Favourites”, Andy and Elaine Alfoldy, and Ute Bachinski. Come and see what they do when they are not painting about food! The wonderful colour, humour and detail these artists use in their art are always pleasing to the viewer. The “Creston Favourites” display will end on Oct. 30.
Creston residents and visitors to the area should take some time to check out both of these venues to see just a portion of the wonderful art available in the area. Remember: Most of the art is for sale, so think about starting your Christmas shopping early.
These community art displays are sponsored by the Community Arts Council of Creston, the Creston Valley Public Library and the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce.
—COMMUNITY ARTS COUNCIL OF CRESTON