| posted on January 14, 2021
ALBANY’S art community is thriving this sum- mer, with a group of local artists showcasing their work at the Vancouver Arts Centre.
The Albany Art Group (AAG) is hosting their 59th Summer Exhibition, embodying the work of 25 artists.
With up to 70 members, the group’s painters and potters attend an array of workshops throughout the week.
The exhibitions provide an opportunity for the members to exhibit and sell their work, a first for many beginner artists in town.
AAG President Colin Montefiore said the town is continuing to diversify its art scene.
“We have a wide range of artists from different backgrounds and experience levels, from beginners to those who have studied fine arts in Florence,” he said.
“In general, the bulk of our members are retirees, but we have a lot of younger members too.
“Now that we’re doing weekend workshops it’s become more inclusive, it’s a good activity to get out there and do something.”
The exhibition displays an extensive range of work, allowing visitors to appreciate the varying styles and techniques across the exhibition rooms.
Every artwork sold will be replaced with a new piece, as the revolving exhibition allows people to take their purchases home on the day.
Mr Montefiore said many of their members, especially those exhibiting for the first time, value displaying their work as a part of a bigger collective.
“If you haven’t exhibited before it’s a little bit like walking naked down York Street,” he said.
“In these exhibitions everybody is allowed to put in, doesn’t matter whether you’re a beginner artist or you’re very talented, we hang everybody’s paintings.
“And new members are always welcome to join the group.”
The Summer Exhibition will run until January 17 in the revamped Vancouver Arts Centre heritage building.
