The city's newest arts association is about to have its first exhibition.
The participants have, in large part, held their own solo shows or been involved in group displays in the past. Some are among the city's biggest names in painting circles, but this is the grand debut of the Central Interior chapter of the Canadian Federation of Artists (CFA).
"It's a good representation of what the artists of this region are doing," said inaugural chapter president Andrea Fredeen. "It is only artists from our chapter, but that is the whole region, not just Prince George, so it's a big mix, a lot of diversity."
The show has about 20 individual works of art by 11 of the chapter's members. It was not as simple as just sending in a painting. Even among the membership, outside eyes had to qualify each painting. High standards of exhibition is one of the hallmarks of the CFA nationwide. Even at the local level, all exhibitions are juried.
When the outside examinations were complete, a set of winners was also announced from among the submissions. First place went to Kristin Vignal for Pool Buddies (pastel on paper), second went to Wendy Framst for Reach (watercolour), and third place went to Heather E. S. Armstrong for Anticipation (acrylic on canvas).
Honourable mentions were granted also to Jeanette Orydzuk, Karma Vance and Lesley White.
Joining all these painters in the show will be Fredeen, Laura Chandler, Melanie Desjardines, Pat Gauthier and Anne I. Moody.
"There are so many amazing artists up here, there has always been that caliber, and although CFA chapters have been attempted in the past, this time it is on really stable footing," said Fredeen.
"The commitment is quite strong, and the numbers are already there and they will grow. Membership is open to anyone who appreciates two-dimensional artwork in any form. We have beginners all the way through to professional. Everybody supports one another, we share feedback, we talk about what's working or what might not be going your way, we teach each other and we inspire each other, but always in a constructive manner and full of support and mutual appreciation."
The CFA unveils its first Prince George group show today at a 6:30 p.m. reception at the Bob Harkins Branch of the Prince George Public Library. The party is in the Keith Gordon Room and the paintings are on display in the library's staircase gallery. It will hang throughout the month of May.
"It's pretty exciting," said Fredeen.
"We are the youngest chapter in the federation and here we are at our first show."
Anyone who wishes more information or to join the Central Interior chapter of the CFA can contact Fredeen at [email protected].
