BY ROBERT TAGLIALEGNE
What started out as a group of artists banding together to
promote their works, has turned out to be a successful
co-operative with its own gallery on Elgin St.
The Northern Artist Gallery, a co-operative of 40 members
and counting, is celebrating its second anniversary tomorrow
(Saturday). To celebrate, the gallery will hold a reception
starting at 2 pm.
This will allow people the opportunity to see new work by
seven northern artists: Leland Bell (native art), Reta
Brouillette (smoke fired pottery), Errol Caldwell (wood
turning), Lou Lacroix (water colors) Susan Levesque (gourd
art), Wendy Stanwick (diamond drill core sample jewelry) and
Ann Suzuki (silk batik).
The April show is sponsored by RBC Dominion Securities.
Although the organization has been together for short time,
this anniversary is a milestone of sorts.
The Northern Artist Gallery began in 2004 when 20 artists
pooled their talent and resources and incorporated as a
non-profit co-operative.
Today the gallery represents 40 artists and members hope to
interest more northern artists.
The gallery originally opened at 170 Elgin St. It outgrew
this space and has recently moved into a bigger space next door
at 168 Elgin.
Muiriel MacLeod, co-chair of the co-op board, said the
growing pains have been worthwhile.
"It's been challenging...and exciting. I'm so heartened by
the support we received, not just from the public, but from our
sponsors as well...
"We believe the kindness and dedication of everyone
involved has been the most significant aspect of this project
and will continue to be the most valuable asset of the Northern
Artist Gallery."
MacLeod said many people regularly drop by Artist on Elgin
just to see what's new. They are not pressured into buying.
Apart from Artist on Elgin, the Northern Artist Gallery is
involved in getting businesses to display local art in their
buildings and setting up a centre where artists can photograph
their work for promotion.
For further information on the anniversary reception or other inquiries, phone 674-0415.
