Adam Prudhomme
Editor
Members of Greater Napanee and Are Arts Association (GNAAA) are showing some of their creations at Ellena’s Café and Pantry, one square foot at a time.
Running through the month of December, the GNAAA Art Squared Show features the work of over 30 local artists, with each piece exactly one square foot in size. The exhibit is a variety of styles, mediums and subject matter, each retailing for $120.
“It’s such a simple thing because the 12×12 canvas is a simple canvas to create on and it’s an easy size for art collectors whether they be new or old art collectors,” said Lisa Ray-Koenig, GNAA member who spearheaded the exhibit and also the artist behind the Groovy Cats collection. “It’s just sort of an easy size that can fit anywhere and it’s ideal for a gift as well.”
With few opportunities for local artists to exhibit their work in town, this new initiative figures to provide great exposure for members of the GNAAA. Though some of the artists may usually work on bigger canvases, this project allows more people to see their work and perhaps encourage them to learn more about the artist’s catalogue.
“What’s really exciting about this is the idea of showcasing our members,” said Ray-Koenig. “Our membership has grown and we’re getting a lot of new artists that are sort of getting their paintbrushes in the paint and having some fun with creating and being able to highlight whether they’re a novice or an experienced artist I think is overall a great way for artists to gain that exposure.”
Ray-Koenig credits Ellena Harris-Fleury, who has been a huge supporter of local arts over the years, for providing the space at 16 Dundas St. E in downtown Napanee.
“I’m hoping that we can do this as an annual event,” said Ray-Koenig. “I think it’s fun and it’s quite easy to create on a 12×12 panel or canvas. I just think the size is really cool.”
To view some of the art work currently for sale or to learn about becoming a member of GNAA, visit their website https://gnaaa.ca/.
GNAA is a volunteer, not-for-profit association formed in 2014 to support the advancement and promotion of its members and of the visual arts in the community.