News Item

May 18, 2011

News Item – CVOLC students put art work on display downtown

Thirty students from Cowichan Valley Open Learning Centre (CVOLC) are showing their art this week at E. J. Hughes Excellent Frameworks Benchmark Gallery on Station Street in Duncan. “Minds and Mediums” runs until Saturday, May 28.

The exhibition sponsored by Art teacher Tracy Cameron and Photography teacher Bryon Thompson features approximately 100 pieces of art. Media used by the students are photography, acrylic paint on canvas, pencil, pencil crayon, wood, paper, knitting, pastel, paddles, and jewellery.

“This opportunity is a professional showcase. It validates the art and artist as visitors to the studio appreciate the art. For some, it is an experience where students show and sell their pieces. For others, it is a chance to have success with showing their talents”, said CVOLC teacher Tracy Cameron.

Most students attend art class 2 to 4 times per week, and some work on projects at home as well, she explained.

"I think this is really cool that I have the chance to put my art out there and sell it, because a lot of young artists' talent goes unnoticed and it's great for us to have this opportunity," said student Darian Newell, whose art work "Temptation" was inspired by a bag of Skittles.

Calvin Martin who is exhibiting "First Nations paddle with hummingbird design" agrees.

“I’m excited to share my art with the public and it’s great to have this opportunity to do so,” he said.

“This has been a great opportunity for the students of CVOLC to be recognized for their artistic talents,” said CVOLC principal Larry Mattin.

“Without this art show, many of these students would never have seen themselves as artists – artists worthy of showcasing their talents at Excellent Frameworks,” he enthused.

“I need to extend a big thanks to Janet and her staff at Excellent Frameworks. They have done a fabulous job of showcasing our students’ art work," added principal Mattin.