Whatever their medium, artists share their unique vision and perspective with the world.
More than a dozen artists will showcase their work this weekend at the fourth annual Innisfil Autumn Art Show and Sale. It runs Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lakeshore branch of the Innisfil ideaLAB and Library (967 Innisfil Beach Rd.).
“This art show has developed from the iconic Innisfil Studio Tour, a community favourite for 27 years before COVID(-19), and has become a great hit for both artists and visitors,” said the chair of the Innisfil Arts, Culture and Heritage Council (IACHC), Sydney Hardie. “This year, we’re thrilled to feature 14 talented artists showcasing everything from wood turning and painting to pottery, sculpture and photography.”
She explained the IACHC hosted an artists' wine and cheese event in late October, which set the tone for the sale. A few of the artists in attendance provided a comment to InnisfilToday in advance of their upcoming show and sale.
“With beginnings as a traditional Illustrator, I have a love of painting. I do portraits in acrylics and find people value unique, one-of-a-kind items. The show taps into the raw creativity of local artists, and I love being a part of that,” said artist Jamie Hardie.
“The traditional sectors of painting and other handicraft remain unaffected by the threat of AI job-stealers. While others fret over the impending AI apocalypse, Innisfil’s artists have taken full advantage of the increasing value that unique, one-of-a-kind items taps into the raw creativity of local artists. Producing original art with meaning takes time, soul, and the excessive chatter surrounding us leaves us with a craving for genuine, imperfect, unfiltered human creativity."
Liam Jones paints and draws realistic and abstract art; he will be drawing at the art show in preparation for art classes he's starting up in town. He last participated in the sale in 2019.
“I'm amazed that all I had to do was look up and all of a sudden I see all these incredible painters, photographers, (and) designers right here in town. I'm very excited about this year. I’ve missed this.”
Kim Evans-Milak has been exhibiting her work since 2018.
“It is a pleasure to network with this wonderful group of talented artists,” she said. “Initially, I showcased pottery pieces but I have evolved to include mixed media artwork and eco-printed textiles."
“My passion for the arts began in university and flourished during my career as an elementary teacher. Now in retirement, I find creating artwork therapeutic and devote time as an art instructor volunteering at Hospice Simcoe and Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka. It is very rewarding to support our local community in this way."
Christine Graham is an artist and owner of Forget Me Not Potts. She told InnisfilToday that the faster time flies while covered in clay in her studio, the greater success the day has been. “I find it provides a peaceful break, or much-needed ‘me time’ from the monotony of our fast-paced lives.”
Though she is new to the group, Graham is no stranger to the community.
“Our family has been rooted in Innisfil since the early 50s, we went to school here and still reside here,” she said.
“Events like these offer a fantastic chance for our community to experience diverse art forms up close, meet the artists, and discover what inspires their creativity,” Sydney said. “And as always, the weekend at the library also features the Innisfil Youth Art Show, with the work of students from Nantyr Shores and Maple Ridge Secondary schools."
“I love this time of year and the opportunity to bring together and showcase the talents of our local youth,” said artist and vice chair of the IACHC, Jeanette Luchese.
The student artists, led by teachers Angela Taylor (Nantyr Shores) and Lisa Bell (Maple Ridge) were encouraged to let “their creativity pour over ... whatever medium speaks to them.”
IACHC meets monthly at Innisfil Town Hall. To learn more or join members at an upcoming meeting email [email protected].
“As a novice, I was welcomed warmly. If anyone wanting to participate is on the fence to bring their artwork to the ... show, don’t hesitate to reach out for next year’s application. The process of applying is streamlined and the people are very helpful,” Graham said.
Learn more about the sale by visiting this website.
