Conservation-themed art festival set to open on Grouse
After years hosting exhibits in such artist meccas as New York City, the Artists for Conservation charity will be hosting its first festival on Grouse Mountain starting this Saturday.
The 10-day event, dubbed the Artists for Conservation Festival, will feature a host of attractions for visitors including a lecture series, workshops and a 73-piece exhibit featuring artists from around the world, all of which focus on some facet of wildlife and habitat conservation.
Robert Bateman, renowned Canadian artist and guest of honour at the festival, will also be unveiling a new work created specifically for the event. Guy Harvey, acclaimed marine painter, will also be participating in the festival as will prominent canadian artists Kelly Dodge, Mark Hobson and David Kilter.
"This is a special opportunity, a chance to meet others and learn," Jeff Whiting, North Shore sculptor and Artists for Conservation founder, told The Outlook.
"Art typically functions in a fundraising or auction capacity but it can have a much more important role. Art can connect with viewers and re-connect society to the natural world."
In addition to the lectures and workshops, the festival will also feature live painting demonstrations and two film premieres. Artwork, ranging in price from $750 - $55,000, will be on sale. A percentage of all proceeds will go to a conservation organization of the artist's choice.
"I'm humbled by the company that I'm keeping with these artists, they are all extraordinarily talented," added Whiting.
"This truly is the world's premier conservation-themed artists exhibit."
The Artists for Conservation Festival is scheduled to run from Nov. 5-13 at Grouse Mountain. Doors open at 10 a.m. on Nov. 5. Admission is free for those with a Grouse Mountain Skyride ticket.
For more information visit www.artistsforconservation/festival.
skolenko@northshoreoutlook.com
twitter.com/seankolenko
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