An extra special art show and sale is taking place in Maple Ridge this weekend.
The 16th annual Vicuna Winter Art Show will be taking place, which features the work of local artists with diverse abilities.
There will be 60 artists participating in the show in a variety of mediums including: acrylic paintings, watercolour paintings, illustrations, pottery sculptures, cards, lamps, and bookmarks.
Acrylic artist Cathy Gunnewig is one of the artists who will be featured at the show. She enjoys painting landscapes and flowers, often getting her inspiration from Van Gogh and The Group of Seven.
Gunnewig uses short quick brush strokes, loosely applied.
"As if to hope for serendipity to take over but will allow her brush strokes to be more controlled," explained Dhanha Shin, director of the studio.
"Cathy’s pleasant paintings reflects her caring personality," added Shin.
Nicole Locke is another prolific painter taking part in the show.
She is known for her creative narratives and meticulous attention to detail, said Shin.
Locke has studied portraiture in the style of Amedeo Modigliani – elongated figures with emotionless faces – for several years and has begun to infuse her portraits with more personality.
"She incorporated expressive facial features, tilted postures, and evocative objects in the backgrounds," noted Shin, adding that alongside her portrait work, Locke has a passion for painting farm scenes, drawing inspiration from her father's life on the farm, capturing rural life with authenticity, warmth, and wit.
"Nicole’s artwork is a testament to her evolving style, blending classical influences with her unique perspective to create humorous and engaging original pieces," Shin added.
T’s Once Upon a Tea Leaf is also participating in the show with the Vicuna Collection of luxury loose leaf tea.
The exhibition will be taking place at their head office which has space specifically designed for curating artwork on the first floor.
This will be the first show at this location since they moved there in March 2023, and the layout of the show will be very different to previous years, said Shin.
Shin noted that the show and sale is not only a great way to support their artists, but will have beautiful artwork featuring the unique styles of each artist, which are perfect for holiday gift giving, or to add to your own collection.
"Our artists love seeing their work on display, receiving the recognition and praise it deserves. It fills them with pride. They also enjoy the warm and friendly art show environment, meeting guests and mingling with fellow artists," she said noting that a few of their artists regularly volunteer during the show because of this. "Of course, many artists are especially delighted when their work sells — it always brings a big smile to their faces."
Exhibition dates are from noon until 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6 and from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7, at unit 101, 22368 North Avenue, Maple Ridge.
There is also a chance to win $50 credit towards the Winter Art Show by following their Instagram page. The winner will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 5.
To enter the contest go to: https://www.instagram.com/vicuna.art.studio/.
For more information about the studio go to: www.vicunaartstudio.com.
