Gallery ArtPlus

Updates from Gallery ArtPlus

2009-11-17T13:01:00.000-08:00

We are just around the corner from the Holiday Season and the traffic is really picking up in our Gallery. Due to the increasing number of curious people and loyal customers, Gallery ArtPlus has discovered some new artists and began to refurbish their inventory of Brian Lorimer paintings.
We have received new jewlery by Tracy John, glass pieces from Paula Vandermay and several others.
Changing Hue 2009 is also still on display until November 28th, 2009. At which point Gallery ArtPlus will begin preparing for their upcoming exhibit with artist David Alexander Risk.
See photos of some of our new pieces below:

Fruit Bowl by Paula Vandermay

Large Heart Pendant by Tracy John

For more artist information, photographs and more please follow Gallery ArtPlus on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homesite.
Or conact us at info@galleryartplus.com

Unique Gift Ideas From Gallery ArtPlus - Part I

2009-11-06T12:17:00.000-08:00

UNDER $100

Gallery ArtPlus is the perfect place to find unique and innovative gifts for those one-of-a-kind people in your life. Make Gallery ArtPlus your one-stop-shop for holiday gift shopping.

This particular blog will feature items from our Gallery for under $100.

Jewelry

The Gallery ArtPlus gift shop holds hundreds of hand-made items, all from local artists. Browse through our mixture of silver, gold, stone, gems, wood, glass and more.

Earrings with Aventurine Briolettes by Shareen Woodford; $50.00

Necklace, Blue Shell with Silver by Shareen Woodford; $20.00

Fused Dichoric Glass Pendant (XL) by Linda Conway on leather rope; $30.00

Glassware

Browse through a large mixture of platters, bowls, glasses, wine-stoppers and more.

Orange and Yellow Wine Stopper by Mishka Hunter; $20

Wine Glass by Mishka Hunter; $65

Fruit Cup by Mishka Hunter; $30

Glass (Home Decor)

Nothing is more unique then a piece of glass hanging on the wall or displayed on a shelf. Take a look at what our innovative artists have to offer:

Sandblasted Glass Lamp by Marc Bourdon; $45.00

Fused Glass (with metal) Wall Hanging by Linda Conway; $100

Glass and Handpainted Vase by Mishka Hunter; $70.00

Fused Glass Light Catcher (Sm.) by Sally McKay; $36.00

Stoneware

Ice Cream Bowl with Spoon by Jane Thelwell; $14.00

Funnel Mug, Celadon Fish by Jane Thelwell; $20.00

Pasta Bowl by Jane Thelwell; $24.00

Wood Turnings

Each piece is hand-crafted by local artists. Take your pick from any colour, size or style.

Weed Pot by Roger Bodley; $40.00

Prints

Gallery ArtPlus sells original prints from local artists. If an original painting is far out of your price range, consider the idea of a high quality print.

Trio by Ed Carson, 13" x 19"; $100

Textiles etc.

Discover your inner fashionista with hand-stitched and woven pieces from Gallery ArtPlus.

Lavender and Blue Scarf by Connie Yrjola; $26.00

Mary Jane Style Shoes by Mola Vida; $115.00

Cards

Local artists submit prints of their original artworks to sell as unique gift cards.

Two Pairs and a Pair Card; Original oil on canvas by Joan Mackay ; $4.35

Vintage Vogue Cover card; Original oil on canvas by Dana Cowie; $4.35

Stay tuned for the next update of Great Gifts Under $100.00 from Gallery ArtPlus!

For purchasing information or other inquiries, please contact the Gallery:
E-Mail: info@galleryartplus.com
Phone: 613-961-1977 ext. 231

Join Gallery ArtPlus' facebook group or follow Gallery ArtPlus on Twitter.

Elizabeth Hutchinson

2009-10-21T08:44:00.000-07:00

Changing Hue 2009 Feature Artist

Elizabeth Hutchinson

Cafe Lalo by Elizabeth Hutchinson

Oil on Canvas

10" x 18"* $450

Elizabeth Hutchinson has had work at Gallery ArtPlus in the past and it has always been extremely well received and adored by everyone who passes through.

Elizabeth is a very formally trained artist, studying acadmeic realism and receiving her Masters of Fine Art from the New York Acadmey of Art in New York City. She has also studied at O.C.A.D., where, ironically enough one of our other artists, Wendy Cain, was her instructor. We consider Elizabeth to be one of our master artists here at the Gallery. Her paintings portray an excellent understanding of light, perception and composition. The colour palette she uses is always aesthetically pleasing and her paintings are easily imagined in any room of any home.

And I think that only a master artist could produce such high quality "miniatures". Miniatures were Elizabeth's idea to allow her art to be more accessible to everyone, not just to those who have an excess of discretionary income. A very smart idea in this time of recession.

View some of Elizabeth's pieces below:

Lemon Yellow Paint Tube by Elizabeth Hutchinson

Oil on Canvas

4" x 4" $155

Chick by Elizabeth Hutchinson
Oil on Canvas
6" x 6" $240

Amsterdam Punk by Elizabeth Hutchinson
Oil on Canvas
6" x 6" $250

For purchasing information or any other inquiries please contact the gallery.
Phone: 613-961-1977 ext 231
E-Mail: Brittany.Knapp@GalleryArtPlus.com

Join the Gallery's facebook group, follow us on Twitter, or view our homesite.

Andrew Csafordi

2009-10-21T07:55:00.000-07:00

Changing Hue 2009 Feature Artist

Andrew Csafordi

Submerged in a Dream by Andrew Csafordi

Encaustic and Mixed Media

6" x 6" $450

"I believe that when one starts to play, serious creativity can be the result." - A. Csafordi

Andrew Csafordi is an encaustic painter. Encaustic painting is a type of media which involves using heated beeswax to which coloured pigments are added. Sometimes the pigments mixed into the beeswax are made of powder and sometimes oil paints or sticks. The wax (coloured or uncoloured, depending upon the piece) is then layered onto a hard surface (in this case, wood), and up to a hundred layers of wax may be applied to one piece until Andrew feels satisfied that his work is completed. The wax is manipulated using different heating tools, in Andrew's case a heat gun, and instruments to shape the wax before it cools.
Andrew is passionate about Encaustic Painting because it allows the viewer to touch and to feel the work, which is a rare commodity when one considers that art is rarely ever made or allowed to be touched. For him, Encaustic painting is a spontaneous way of fusing ideas through the use of beeswax, layers of colour and many other media that he is likely to include in his paintings. Planning is a difficult feat in the process of encuastic painting, so Andrew prefers to label some of the slightly bumpy texture on his works "planned chance".
Andrew's pieces are of the type that can be looked upon for hours. The endless array of textures and materials allows the onlooker to see something new every time they catch a glimpse of the work.
Some intriguing images can be seen below:

Red Sky at Night by Andrew Csafordi
Encaustic and Mixed Media
8" x 24" $850

For purchasing inquiries or more information please contact the Gallery.

Phone: 613-961-1977 ext. 231

E-Mail: Brittany.Knapp@GalleryArtPlus.com

Join the Gallery's facebook group, follow Gallery ArtPlus on Twitter or visit our homesite for more information and images of the artist's work.

Wendy Cain

2009-10-20T13:07:00.000-07:00

Changing Hue 2009 Feature Artist

Wendy Cain

Untitled by Wendy Cain

Handmade Paper Pulp and Spray Stencil

15" x 11"* $425

Wendy Cain is an artist with a wealth of education and experience. She has received a Bachelor's Degree with honors in fine art from the University of Toronto and is also a graduate of O.C.A.D. As mentioned before, Wendy was also an instructor at the Ontario Academy of Art and we have personally witnessed the quality of student she has instructed (Elizabeth Hutchinson).
She has exhibited her work provincially, nationally and internationally for over thirty-five years. Wendy's pieces on display for this exhibit are all created from handmade paper, a studio practise which she has worked in for over two decades. This process has seperate challenges than traditional painting, all which motivate Wendy to return to the studio time after time, to continuously create works that are fresh and new.
When the hand-made paper is subjected to extended time periods in a Hollander paper beater, the pulp becomes extremely creamy with a similar texture to yogurt. Then, the pulp is coloured with intense pigments and Wendy sprays the fine layers of pulp through a sequence of natural stencils which she finds in her garden. Though the process is not really as easy as it sounds.
When Wendy is painting, she paints on an extremely reflective surface so details become nearly impossible to see. As well, the media used to paint dries a different colour than when it is applied. The Frosted Landscape Series (on display for Changing Hue 2009) includes a series of lusture pigments added to the pulp, which is what gives the series it's 'frosted' appearance.
The Series of Conversations (on Display for Changing Hue 2009) refer to the relationship between a classical Greek pot and a drawing of another form.
See images of Wendy's time consuming work below:

From the Frosted Landscape Series:

Frosted Landscape Series - Untitled III by Wendy Cain
Handmade Paper Pulp and Spray Stencil (framed)
29" x 32"* $1,075

Untitled (Blue Cosmos) by Wendy Cain
Handmade Paper Pulp and Spray Stencil (framed)
7" x 6"* $210

From A Series of Small Conversations:

A Series of Small Conversations V by Wendy Cain
Handmade Paper Pulp and Spray Stencil
10" x 10"* $320

* All dimensions are measurements of the piece inside of the frame. Including the matte, each frame adds about 2-3 inches to the size of the art work. Retail prices include the frames.

For purchasing inquiries please contact Gallery ArtPlus.
Phone : 613-961-1977 ext. 231
E-Mail: Brittany.Knapp@GalleryArtPlus.com

Join our facebook group, follow Gallery ArtPlus on Twitter, or visit our Homesite for a virtual tour of past and present exhibits.

Marie Timbers

2009-10-20T12:11:00.000-07:00

Changing Hue 2009 Feature Artist

Marie Timbers

Reclamation by Marie Timbers

Mixed Media on Canvas

24" x 24" $600

Marie Timbers is our artist from Toronto. Marie's works are all abstract pieces that depict different harmonious images, thoughts and landscapes through a variety of media.

She has two series here on display which are titled as Healing Circles and Rejuvenation. Both of these series expose deep inward thought in regards to the world that surrounds us. Rejuvenation was inspired by the natural world, ". . .deep into forest shadows where evidence of rebirth, and Nature's power to heal and restore herself were evident". With the use of birch bark, Marie adds an interesting visual texture to her abstract images and allows the onlooker to consider the true meaning behind her series. The Healing Circles are a series of collage paintings that incorporate natural fibers, plant materials, hand made papers, copper wire and watermedia paints. This series of paintings concentrates on the circle in it's shape and form, but the deeper meaning of the "Circle" is also embraced. Marie states, "We honor the Circle of Life, participate in Healing Circles and we are reminded, what goes around comes around".
Common Threads is a painting of Marie's that is individually themed from the rest. The message behind this painting is spiritually powerful and deeply inspiring: "I believe we are all on the same quest for a life of goodness; searching for a path that will lead us to connect more full with others and ultimately to a place of truth and spiritual awareness. There are 'Common Threads' that run through all spiritual paths. . . eternal truths that will lead us forward to a place of onenness with the universe".
Oftentimes there is something more than meets the eye. This is certainly the case with Marie's work, and I feel the sincere inspiration behind her pieces adds to their quality and beauty.
Some images are depicted below:

Prairie Vista by Marie Timbers

Mixed Media on Canvas (framed)

14" x 18" $350

Common Threads by Marie Timbers
Mixed Media on Canvas
16" x 16" $400

For purchasing inquiries or other information please contact the gallery.

Phone: 613-961-1977 ext. 231
E-Mail: Brittany.Knapp@GalleryArtPlus.com

Join the Gallery's facebook group, follow Gallery ArtPlus on Twitter or visit or homesite for more information and images of the artist's work.

Changing Hue 2009

2009-10-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

Changing Hue 2009 is an interesting exhibit, in which I can say the only common theme between the works is that they are all very different.
Each of our four artists specialize in different media. Andrew Csafordi is an encaustic painter. Which means that the main ingredient in his paintings is beeswax. He also incorporates plant materials, natural fibers and different types of pigments to keep his work visually interesting. Elizabeth Hutchinson is showing her series of oils. Painting mostly in the subject of landscapes, figures and wildlife, Elizabeth's work has the ability to spawn feelings of warmth and happiness. Marie Timbers is our artist who contributed abstract works that depict deep intellectual thoughts about the world around us. Her colour palette is bright and she also includes a variety of media in her paintings. Wendy Cain is probably the most experienced artist of the show. Exhibiting her works across Canada and internationally for over thirty-five years. The pieces she has here on display are all created from handmade paper pulp and sprayed with colour through a series of stencils.
The opening for Changing Hue 2009 was held last Thursday, October 15th. The turnout was great and it is in my pride that I say the artist's were happy with the hanging and display of their work. Come see the exhibit for yourself, and fall in love with the pieces as much as we have.

For more information join the Gallery's facebook group, follow Gallery ArtPlus on Twitter, or visit our homesite to view images of the Artist's work.

The Closing of Summer Voyage

2009-10-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

Lower Entrance of Gallery ArtPlus.

When I came into the Gallery last Tuesday morning I was scheduled to remove and return Paulette Sauve's paintings from her quadrant downstairs.
By the time Paulette arrove in the early morning, I had pulled all of the packaging for her work and we began taking down the pieces together. After about an hour and a half of physically challenging work (yes, working at an Art Gallery can be physically challenging at times), Paulette and I had managed to take down, package and place the artwork in her car. Fortunately, Paulette made the decision to leave Gallery ArtPlus with one of her paintings, titled Sailing Ridea Lake (see below).

A section of Paulette's quadrant.

Sailing Rideau Lake by Paulette Sauve
Oil on Canvas

* This painting is still on display in the downstairs gallery until October 15th, at which time we will rotate it to the second level.

After Paulette left and I took a look around at the stark white walls of her quadrant, I had a nostalgic feeling for the exiting season. Summer Voyage was my first exhibit here at Gallery ArtPlus and I must say, each of the four featured artists were endlessly pleasant, forever forgiving and of course, extremely talented. It was a pleasure working with each of them.

The following artist is featured in Paulette's recently vacant quadrant until the opening of the latest exhibit.

Tobe Muir

Eggplants by Tobe Muir

This week I also met with Bert Henderson to arrange a date for the return of his paintings and discussed with Bob Blenderman a date for pick-up of his work. Fortunately, Ed has chosen to leave most of his watercolours with us, so we may display them in rotation throughout the upper and lower levels of the gallery.

Waiting for the Train by Bert Henderson

An image of Ed Cronk's quadrant.

I also received several new pieces from a local artist by the name of Jim Christy. Jim is a very interesting man and his work must be looked at subjectively or otherwise painfully misunderstood. One of his pieces is depicted below, otherwise I would suggest coming to the Gallery to see them for yourself.

Another Bottle of Rye by Jim Christy

With two of the four quadrants downstairs in transition, I am full of mixed thoughts. I am sad to see Summer Voyage go, but on the other hand, I am excited for the upcoming exhibit and communicating with the new artists. The different ideas of expression, technique and visuals arts in general never cease to intrigue me.

A last reminder - Bruce St. Clair realism courses taught in watercolour, oil and acrylic are coming up very soon! Get your registration in now before it is too late!

For more information about the Gallery please find us on facebook, follow us on twitter, or take a virtual tour on our homesite.

Bruce St. Clair: Oil and Acrylic Courses

2009-09-26T10:33:00.000-07:00

"Unlocking the Mystery of Realism"

End of the Trail by Bruce St. Clair

Do you have a desire to paint your subject matter the way it "really looks"? Have you found your attempts at stylistic interpretations forced and unfulfilling? This (4 session) workshop is filled with the how-to's of realistic painting, including the fundamental dynamics of accurate drawing, colour creation, effective composition and the discriminating use of photo references.

You could also add some extra clought by referring to me as a "master painter and seasoned mentor, with much to impart", since I've been painting and exhibiting professionally for over 40 years and teaching for over 20. (Learned a couple of things along the way!)

Bob's Boat by Bruce St. Clair

The Prodigal by Bruce St. Clair

For more information on the course package, please contact the gallery at:

E-mail: Brittany.Knapp@galleryartplus.com
Phone: 613-961-1977 ext. 231
Facebook, Twitter, or Homesite.

Summer Voyage Critique by Jesus Estevez

2009-09-22T08:06:00.000-07:00

Jesus Estevez is a valued client of Gallery ArtPlus. He frequents the gallery on a regular basis, and though he is a locally recognized artists, he has yet to display his work here at the gallery. Thus, we felt his overview of Summer Voyage would remain unbiased and true to the artwork. The critique has been organized by means of artist. Please read and enjoy:

Paulette Sauve

Paulette Sauve's oil paintings combined with mixed media offer us a semi-abstract world with scenes of docks, harbors and the Old Port of Montreal.

Paulette emphasizes the sky and the water by blending them with the boats and the buildings. She combines different materials like chicken wire and other woven textiles to create textures that will indicate in some cases the waves on the water, clouds and other textures on the lake.
Paulette uses simple lines and formal shapes to represent her boats and buildings, light pastel colours for the sky and dark tones of blue for the water.

Ships on Marshland by Paulette Sauve
Oil on Canvas; 18" x 24"

Bert Henderson

Bert Henderson's oil paintings show us details of everyday scenes of Newfoundland's coast. Bert's characters are caught up in their every day affairs, shopping, fishing or just playing around the ports and beaches of Newfoundland.
Bert uses oil paints in a very light way and in many places the preliminary drawing is showing through the oil overlay. His paintings are very colorful using the right values of light and shadow.
Bert captures the different colour combinations of traditional row houses, characteristic of Newfoundland. The characters in his paintings sometimes seem as if they are aware of the viewer looking into the viewer's eyes, whiel others are portrayed in an unselfconcious posture. It is an interesting way of portraying figures that helps catch the interest of the viewer.
One detail that Bert repeats in most of his paintings is the ocean on the horizon line between the mountains, once again characteristic of Newfoundland landscape, it gives a nice depth to the painting.

Bay Bulls II by Bert Henderson
Oil on Canvas; 15" x 30"

Ed Cronk

Ed Cronk is a water colour artists whose paintins show us very ordered images of boats, buildings and harbours. Cronk's style is realistic and his approach is very formal. He uses clean, straight lines with subtle and sober colours that depict a very modern attitude. In a way his work is very architectural.
Cronk places the elements in his compositions in such a way that give us the impression that each element occupied its own position without interfering with each other.
I would describe Cronk's paintings as formal, sover and modern. His style succeeds in conveying his subjects with a refined and well executed technique.

Lone Gull by Edward Cronk
Watercolour on Paper; 21" x 15"

Robert Blenderman

Robert Blenderman paints with oils depicting scenes of sailing using his unique approach which divides the sky, sail boats and the water in different ways. His use of different techniques with each subject element is his trademark in this show. For the sky and sails Blenderman does geometrical shapes in primary, strong colours that interact with each other creating other shapes with slightly different tonalities of colour.
For the water Blenderman uses splashes of many different colours (red, green, yellow and blue) with the intention of creating movement, waves and foam.

Red Reflections by Robert Blenderman
Oil on Canvas; 30" x 36"

Summer Voyage closes on September 26th. Please come visit Gallery ArtPlus to get a lasting impression of summer depicted through oil and watercolour.

For any inquiries please contact me at:

613-961-1977 ext. 231
Brittany.Knapp@galleryartplus.com

Or find the gallery on facebook, twitter or take a virtual tour at our homesite.

A Quick Update

2009-09-17T13:02:00.000-07:00

It's been extremely busy here at Gallery ArtPlus lately.

The new exhibit is set to open on October 3rd. So the prepping of receiving, photographing, returning and receiving all the pieces of our four featured artists has been a process - to say the least!
Unfortunately, one of our featured artists, Anne Ireland, had to postpone the display of her pieces from the October show until next spring/summer. She has displayed here in the past and we look forward to working with her and featuring her art again in 2010!

Fallen Angel by Anne Ireland
Acrylic on Canvas; 24" x 30"

Luckily though, another artist who was set to display here in November of this year was able to prep her pieces in time for the October show. Her name is Marie Timbers and we look forward to promoting her work in Belleville and the surrounding area!

I have received new pieces from Roger Bodley. See below:

Black Cherry Salad Bowl by Roger Bodley

SallyMcKay dropped off some pieces to have sold over Christmas at the Gallery Giftshop. Visit her website to get an idea of her work: www.poshit.ca. I will have pictures posted later in the week of the specific pieces we have in the gallery!

An image of Sally McKay's work (taken from the Posh-It website)

Bruce St.Clair and I have finally decided upon dates to begin the oil painting classes that will take place in the downstairs gallery. I will be releasing dates and course prices early next week.

Life in the Harbour by Bruce St. Clair
Oil on Canvas; 40" x 30"

On a similar note, Steven Draper, a photography artist who has shown here in the past has also decided to teach a course at the gallery. His course will be a basic photography and camera functionality course that will begin in late October/early November. Stay tuned for exact dates and course prices!

Refelctive Cycles in Dreamland by Steven Draper
Photography; 15" x 10"

We returned several pieces of Brian Lorimer's work yesterday. It was a terribly unfortunate event, but luckily we still have enough work to fill the upstairs gallery. A new exhibit featuring the work of Jesus Estevez's students is set to begin later in the fall.

Wish You Were Here by Brian Lorimer
Oil on Canvas; 60" x 60"

Next week I am meeting with David Alexander Risk to discuss what I hope to be a very exciting show opening in November. I will update after our meeting on Tuesday.

Other than that, several new artists have decided to display and sell their work in the gallery. More pieces will be received next week. As well, several changes of display have been made upstairs.

The Gallery is now changing on a weekly, and sometimes daily basis! So please come in and visit to see what Gallery ArtPlus has to offer you!

Find us on facebook for more photographs and news.
Follow Gallery ArtPlus on Twitter for daily updates.
Visit our homesite to take a virtual tour.

Or simply e-mail me with any questions or comments:

Brittany.Knapp@galleryartplus.com

Closing of Galleries Across North America

2009-09-09T11:33:00.000-07:00

It is not unknown news that art galleries across Canada and the United States are closing due to the economic recession.
I was aware of this fact when I began working at ArtPlus and I am even more aware of it now. The reality of this situation became most apparent to me when I visited a popular gallery in my home town only one hour from Belleville.
As I walked into the gallery, I was shocked to see the walls were bare and the space was essentially empty – except for two men photographing the blank walls and a tiny desk in the corner for the gallery manager.
When I inquired as to what was going on, I was provided with the information that the gallery itself was closing and would proceed to open as a “web-gallery”.
By following the closing of their gallery with the opening of a "web-gallery" it is my assumption that this gallery sincerely hopes to hold the interest of their clients and the business with their artists - I wish them the best of luck.

Going online is a very cost-effective way of selling art, but I am afraid the effect and the power of the pieces being sold might not be there.
But for many of the galleries trying to stay open in this recession, going online may be one of their only options.
As I was researching the effect this recession is having on art galleries, I came across an article that suggested “strategies” for commercial galleries.
The article's first suggestion for galleries was closing, while "moving" (shifting the gallery to a less expensive building or city) came in second, and going online was a close follower.
Either way, this is not an easy time for art-dealers anywhere.

It is my belief that to spend a little helps the economy a lot. It pains me to see one of my favorite galleries going out of business, and it would hurt me to see Gallery ArtPlus affected in any similar way. So I urge the public to visit the galleries and keep the interest alive.
Galleries often have pieces for sale that are budget-friendly. On top of that, nothing beats a one-of-a-kind, handmade gift of piece of decor for your home.
Sometimes shopping in retail outlets runs in the same price range as shopping at galleries in your neighborhood.

As I have said before. At ArtPlus we have a gift shop full of hand-made jewlery, hand made pottery and blown glass sculptures. All at reasonable prices.

I think in this recession we have to remember the arts and that buying art is essentially an investment.

Custom Made Pet Bowls

2009-09-04T09:29:00.001-07:00

Jane Thelwell is a talented potter from Kingston, Ontario.
Here at the gallery we have plenty of her work on display. She makes dinner sets that include two to three different sizes of bowls and plates, several different styles of mugs and even tiny napkin holders. Her work is unique and would make a bold statement at any dinner table.

Something else very original from Jane is her custom pet bowls.
The pet bowls come in three different sizes (large, small and wee) as well as three different colours (beige, blue and green). Any name may be printed on any size bowl.
They make fantastic gifts for friends, family or your very own pets.
View the images below to decide which size and pattern suits you best!

Large Pet Bowl in Beige
Diameter: 9"
Height: 4"
Price: $30.00

Medium Pet Bowl in Green

Diameter: 7"
Height: 2.5"
Price: $20.00

Small Pet Bowl in Blue
Diameter: 5"
Height: 1.5"
Price: $15.00

To order contact the gallery at:
brittany.knapp@galleryartplus.com
613-961-1977 ext. 231

Follow the gallery on facebook, twitter, and our homesite for recent updates and news!

Landscapes of Solitude

2009-09-03T08:36:00.000-07:00

"Little One" of the Orange Asli by Brian Lorimer
Oil on Canvas; 60" x 60"

Landscapes of Solitude was Gallery ArtPlus' first solo exhibit featuring the work of Brian Lorimer.
The exhibit opened on June 12, 2009. Brian's work was so well received at the gallery that his exhibit was moved to the second floor gallery upon the arrival of Summer Voyage.
Fortunately, Brian's work is still on display until further notice.
I will post some pictures of Brian's work, but if you want to experience the real power of these pieces, I suggest you come to Gallery ArtPlus to see them for yourself.

Red Rock by Brian Lorimer Oil on Canvas; 60" x 60"

"I prefer to work large, letting the painting command it's environment rather than complement it. I want my paintings to speak with confidence, stir reaction, make a statement and demand reflection from the viewer. For me, larger paintings better serve this purpose."
-Brian Lorimer

Beverly Street by Brian Lorimer Oil on Canvas; 48" x 60"

To view more images of Brian's work please join our facebook page.

For other updates and news about the gallery find our homesite or follow us on Twitter.

With any information or inquiries please contact me at:
Brittany.Knapp@galleryartplus.com
or 613-961-1977 ext. 231

Shift into Right Brain at Gallery ArtPlus

2009-09-02T08:08:00.000-07:00

When I met with one of the artists last week a very interesting topic was brought into our conversation: we spoke about the left-brain/right-brain theory.
This theory is guided by the cerebral hemisphere and split-brain research which suggests that the two different hemispheres (left and right) of the brain perform entirely different functions.
The evidence gathered through research concluded that the right side of the brain functioned as the intuitive, emotional, more abstract and visual side of the mind. While the left side of the brain worked in a logical, sequential manner, concentrating on details and organization.

Roger Sperry, the doctor who originated the split-brain theory.

But how is this theory relevant to the visual arts?

Well, it is believed that individuals who are "right-brained" are more creative and artistic.
To support this, in 1970's artist and author, Betty Edwards, wrote a book called Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain. Betty's theory was that any person had within them the ability to draw, to really become an artist. Her book teaches the five basic skills of drawing (perception of edges, spaces, relationships, lights and shadows and the whole) and is guided by the left-brain/right-brain theory in the sense that she teaches the individual how to tap into their artistic side by accessing the "right side" of their brain.

Betty Edwards' instructional book, Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain

Ironically enough, last week I also received an e-mail from a visual arts website that was titled, "Shifting into Right Brain". Making it more apparent to me that this theory was a very influential movement in the direction of how art is instructed today

Which is also the reason why the artist whom I met with makes a small play on this theory in his classes as well.
For if you find that you are so organized, so concentrated on detail, that you feel you need to take major risks to develop your creative potential, you may want to find a way to "shift into right brain".
Taking an arts course at Gallery ArtPlus may be able to provide you with tips to do just that.
In the near future Gallery ArtPlus will be providing courses in mixed media as well as a basic photography course.

Take a basic photography course at Gallery ArtPlus

If you have any questions or comments please contact me at:

Brittany.Knapp@galleryartplus.com
613-961-1977 ext. 231

Or find the gallery on facebook, twitter, myspace.
Take a yourself on a virtual tour of the gallery at our homesite.

Farewell to Cindy

2009-08-29T08:23:00.000-07:00

The front desk is going to seem like a lonely place for the next little while.
My first shift as gallery administrator was August 4th. Since then, I have worked side by side with my colleague, Cindy.
Cindy showed me the ropes, saved my dignity many times when I could not find the answer to a simple question, and she also had the patience to laugh at my terrible jokes.
Now she is taking her first step to becoming a famous artist - attending the Rhode Island School of Design.
The Gallery was pleased to have her as an employee and I know she will be sorely missed.
So, the best of luck to Cindy!

Art Classes at Gallery ArtPlus

2009-08-26T09:49:00.000-07:00

Three Chairs by Bruce St. Clair

On Monday, August 24th I had the chance to meet with one of the gallery's finest artists, Bruce St. Clair. The purpose of our meeting was to discuss the possibility of his instructing art classes at the gallery. However, as the conversation progressed we both realized we were missing critical information that would allow us to get the classes started. We didn't know which media Bruce should use in his courses, what time of day the courses should take place, etc.
So, the idea of creating a questionnaire was formed:

This questionnaire is interested in gaining a better perspective on what type of art classes the general population would prefer to attend.

The instructor for these courses will be Bruce St. Clair. Bruce is a world renowned high realism painter. Painting mostly in oils, Bruce has won several awards for his highly realistic works. Currently, Bruce is teaching fine arts courses at Loyalist College in Belleville, Ontario. Gallery ArtPlus is grateful for the opportunity to have Bruce St. Clair teach some fine arts courses in our downstairs gallery. As stated above, the following questions will be geared toward finding an general consensus to determine which type of classes Bruce should teach here at Gallery ArtPlus.

Which days of the week are most preferable to take a voluntary fine arts course:
a) Monday – Wednesday
b) Wednesday – Friday
c) Saturday

Which time of day is most preferable:
a) 9:00a.m. – 1:00p.m.
b) 1:00p.m. – 5:00p.m.
c) Past 5:00p.m.

How many hours would you be willing to put in for each class:
a) One hour or less
b) One – Two hours
c) Two – Three hours

Would you prefer:
a) To attend a workshop (concentrate the classes into approx. two days worth of learning)
b) Weekly classes lasting approx. one hour each

Which type of media are you most interested in learning about:
a) Drawing (beginning with simple pencil work)
b) Pastel
c) Watercolour
d) Oil
e) Acrylic
f) I would prefer to take a studio course in which I could work on my own pieces with the helpful input of my classmates and teacher

Thank you for taking the time to look through the questionnaire.

If you would like forward me your completed response, or have any inquiries, my e-mail address is brittany.knapp@galleryartplus.com.

Otherwise, find us on facebook, twitter, or our homesite.

Garden Wall by Bruce St. Clair

Bob's Boat by Bruce St. Clair

What did I Learn as an Art History Student?

2009-08-21T09:08:00.000-07:00

Well what did I learn as a student in general? With the memory still fresh in my mind I feel I must be honest.
It's difficult to value my education for the amount of information it taught me - because I really don't retain a lot of information.
More often than not, I find myself half way through a novel before I realize that I have read it before. It takes me twenty minutes of watching a movie before I realize I have already seen it.
So how did I survive university?
On interest alone.
I was interested in English, I was excited about writing essays.
Then what lead me to a minor in Art History?
It's my belief that a combination of my want to be an artist, and my absolute failure at actually becoming one was the motivation behind my choice of classes in university - If I couldn't be an artist I would learn about art inside and out.
But like I said, I don't retain alot of information.
I couldn't tell you whether Romanticism came before the Baroque period, whether impressionism stemmed from expressionism or vice versa.
What I can tell you is that art is subjective. It doesn't take a person with endless knowledge on the elements and principles of design to decide whether a piece of art is beautiful or if it is hideous. With all of my "training" and the little bit of knowledge I have been able to retain, I still do not have the whimsical ability to make a person like something they don't like, or hate something they do.
What I am really trying to say is: don't be afraid of art.
Don't be afraid of exposing yourself to crowds of 'art people' or a room filled with experienced artists - because there will never be a wrong answer or a wrong point of view.
Actually, that is the beautiful and most exciting thing about art. When is the last time you found yourself in a situation where you could never be wrong?

Expose yourself.
Come visit us here at Gallery ArtPlus! See our Summer Voyage exhibit and let us know what you really think.
Get in contact with me if you have any stories to share about your past experiences with 'art people', artists, or just art in general!

Remember life imitates art, not the other way around.

Find out more about the gallery on:
Twitter , our Homepage and Facebook

Or contact me personally:
E-mail: Brittany.knapp@galleryartplus.com
Tel: 613-961-1977 ext. 231

Summer Voyage Reception

2009-08-15T10:24:00.000-07:00

The "Summer Voyage" reception went beautifully well!
The turnout was great, just as we had supposed.
Each of the artists chatted with locals, fans and employees of the gallery.
Brant's wife supplied the h'orderves while his daughter tended bar.

I have to say, I was a little nervous for my first reception as gallery administrator.
I was not exactly sure of my duties, what I was supposed to say or with whom I was supposed to interact.
However, all of my worries melted away when I began to realize how welcoming and warm the crowd at the reception was. Each person was willing to talk, strike up a discussion about the paintings, the artist, or about anything that they could think of.
It was a wonderful first experience.

Paulette is a beautiful woman from Montreal (though she was born in Ontario). My fiance and I chatted with her about her painting, "Our Lady of the Harbour" and the significance of the statue that is portrayed in this image. She kindly explained how the statue faces the port in order to welcome the sailors back home, as well as give them luck on their way out to sea. A very interesting fact I would never have been aware of otherwise.

Our Lady of the Harbour by Paulette Sauve

Bert Henderson seemed to enjoy himself as well. Even though I had only met him once before, he seemed to be in exceptionally high spirits. For he was consistently surrounded by women friends and fans alike. The work we displayed of Bert's had been dominantly based in Newfoundland so needless to say it struck a few nostalgic conversations between the onlookers.

Boats at Wharfs, Port Dover by Bert Henderson

Robert Blenderman was one artist I had not had the priveledge of meeting before the exhibit. But I must admit, he is a wonderful and humorus man. Robert actually prefers to go by the name, "Bob", which gives me a further impression of his light-hearted personality. My fiance was given the chance to speak in depth with him about a love they both shared - sailing. While I could only relate to his art, I must say he is a passionate man and very proud of what he does. He explained how details such as "splatter" marks were done at the very end of each painting, and is done in order to depict his excitement in regards to the subject and also the piece itself.

Young Sailors by Robert Blenderman

Last, but certainly not least, I must mention our artist Ed Cronk.
As of late, Ed had been feeling quite ill. Having frequent scares with his health and trips to the hospital, he was finally diagnosed with pneumonia. Pneumonia is a serious illness for any person to have, and has the ability to keep an individual bed-ridden for weeks. After the diagnosis, I felt it necessary to ask Ed if he would still be able to attend our reception. Without a single moment of pause, his immediate reply was, "But, of course Brittany". He was the first to arrive, and the last to leave - an obvious sign of time well spent. The crowd was astounded by Cronk's works which are a display of perfectly manipulated watercolour. I can't say I recall ever having witnessed a use of this media that is equal to Ed's ability.

The Lone Gull by Ed Cronk

All in all, it was an exceptional night which only left me feeling more excited about the gallery, the artists and the Summer Voyage exhibit.
It also left me with strong anticipation of preparing for our next exhibits, getting to know all of our artists a little bit better, and discovering new and exciting artists to display their work here.

The Summer Voyage exhibit will be on display here until September 26, 2009. So please, you won't regret it if you stop by, but you might if you miss your chance to see the beautiful work here by Ed, Bob, Paulette and Bert.

Gallery ArtPlus is located at 54 North Front st. in Belleville, Ontario.
Contact me personally with any questions or comments:
Brittany.knapp@galleryartplus.com
613-961-1977 ext. 231

Follow us on facebook, twitter, myspace and our homesite.

Welcome to Gallery ArtPlus

2009-08-11T12:55:00.000-07:00

Gallery ArtPlus is located at 54 North Front Street in Belleville, Ontario.

Ironically, the first chapter of this blog is being written on the second anniversary of the gallery.

Two years ago, Brant Cowie, the owner of Gallery ArtPlus decided to relocate his business of thirty years, ArtPlus Ltd., to a larger building in the Belleville core and open this gallery.

After searching for locations that sparked his imagination as well as provided easy and visible access to the public, Brant came upon this location at North Front Street. Previously, this building stood tall as a church in the Belleville community.

After several months of renovations, interior decorations, organization and chaos, Gallery ArtPlus came to be a sparse example of what it is today.

The downstairs gallery during a past exhibit.

Our first exhibit was in August of 2007. Two artists were featured, including a very talented Dana Cowie (Brant’s beloved niece).

1960's Reflection by Dana Cowie

Since then, the gallery has held close to twenty exhibits featuring all varieties of media and all genres of artists.

Having held that number of exhibits in such a short period of time, Gallery ArtPlus has come to accumulate hundreds of pieces of local Canadian art. So much so, that pieces have to be rotated from storage to display on a regular basis.

The gallery has even branched out and assembled a gift shop on the second floor which includes beautiful hand-made jewelry, cards, notepads and calendars with prints of previously displayed art, housewares and much more.

An image of the gallery's gift shop.

Gallery ArtPlus is a beautiful, welcoming building, with wonderful art that is always changing.

So if you are ever wandering the downtown Belleville area, I suggest you pop-in and come take a look at the gallery and get to know the employees. We love to see and meet new faces and introduce you to all the beautiful pieces that are here on display.

Even if you are an out-of-towner please make Gallery ArtPlus a stop on your destination list.

My name is Brittany Knapp and I am the new administrator here at the Gallery. I have completed my education at York University where I majored in English and minored in Art History.

My motivation is to gain this wonderful gallery which I am so passionate about a little more awareness within the Belleville community and surrounding area.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at Brittany.knapp@galleryartplus.com, or 613-961-1977 ext. 231.

Please find us on Facebook, Myspace, Twitter , and visit our homesite, www.galleryartplus.com.

Join me at the "Summer Voyage" reception

2009-08-11T08:59:00.000-07:00

On the thirteenth of August 2009 Gallery ArtPlus will be holding a reception for their new exhibit, "Summer Voyage".
"Summer Voyage" is a nautical themed exhibit featuring the works of Ed Cronk, Paulette Sauve, Robert Blenderman and Bert Henderson.
In my opinion, the opening of this exhibit could not have occurred at a more appropriate time - summer has finally decided to reveal itself after hiding behind two months of cold, rainy weather.
If you are not familiar with any of the featured artists, I will provide you with one interesting fact: three of the four artists are senior.
Henderson, Cronk and Blenderman are local artists (Kingston and Belleville) with very different styles of painting.
Henderson describes himself as ". . . a realist, figurative painter who believes draughtmenship and composition are the most important aspects of painting."

Ferryland by Bert Henderson
Oil on Canvas

While Blenderman chooses to use bright colour and well enunciated form to express the emotion and adventure in his 'nautical' paintings.Summer Sail by Robert Blenderman

Ed Cronk is considered to be a master watercolourist, undoubtedly one of Canada's finest. His Maritime paintings will invoke fond memories of places once visited or dreamed of.

The Long Wait by Ed Cronk

All three of these men carry the definitive wisdom that comes with age, the great achievement of technicality that only arises with time and persistence, as well as personalities distinguishable from fifteen miles away.
. . . I forgot to mention, Paulette is not too dull of a figure herself. Though nearly half the other artists' age her paintings are distinctive and quite clearly 'Paulette'.
At first glance the works seem abstract, but with deeper insight comes the realization that they are more dominantly expressionistic.
The large, strong brush strokes, contrasts of bright and murky colours, as well as heavily textured surfaces make Sauve's paintings the type you could stare at for hours.

One of Paulette's more realistic works:Old Port of Montreal by Paulette Sauve
Oil on Canvas

On top of all this, I might add that there will be wine and appetizers on hand at the reception.
So not only will you have the opportunity to mix and mingle with the artists, discuss the local art scene, but you will also be able to relax, have a drink and a bite to eat.
Again, the reception begins at 6:00p.m. on August 13th.
For any inquiries please contact me at:
brittany.knapp@galleryartplus.com
or 613-961-1977 ext. 231

Hope to see you there!