ART: what are we fighting for?

Spent a happy hour this weekend moodling through a local art exhibit. "In Pursuit of Excellence" is an annual juried art exhibit featuring local artists, and this one had the added juiciness of featuring three paintings by my talented friend Diane Speirs.  Even better!

The Garibaldi Art Club: One of many local groups celebrating the arts this week.

I can really lose myself at an art show, drinking in the various subjects, themes and media, and --- invariably --- I end up buying a piece or two. Our home is filled with original work from local artists and work by artists from places we've visited. I can't say whether or not it is 'good' art, only that it is art that speaks to our hearts, and enriches our home. Each piece is personal, has its own story and its own place at our place.  

Here are a few tasty samples from the show...

Its BC Arts and Culture Week and artists and arts groups across the province are hosting events and celebrating the arts.  A video clip is making the rounds on the internet this week. The divine Kevin Spacey (yes, I DO have a crush on him!) making an eloquent and beautiful appeal to support arts funding in the US. In it, he refers to the following quote:


During the Second World War, Winston Churchill’s finance minister said Britain should cut arts funding to support the war effort. Churchill’s response: “Then what are we fighting for?”


Kevin, in the same piece says: "Countries go to war, but it is culture that unites us." *sigh* How can you not love him? 


So, here in my small corner of the world, hubby and I do our best to support local art, artists and cultural groups and events. We have a happy little time with it - make a home, feed our souls, dabble in music, painting, theatre. We write. He sings. I appreciate. And here's a little beauty we picked up this weekend to grace our home-away-from-home in Scottsdale. Culture unites us indeed. 

"Dancing Peppers" by Maple Ridge artist, Margaret Bale.
Now, proudly owned by us!

My challenge: How can you support the arts this week?
My tip: Visit www.theactmapleridge.org and see what's happening locally. Buy a ticket. Take a class. Purchase an artist's work...
Have fun!


Visit Diane Speirs here: Alouette Mountain Studio
You can view the video here: Kevin Spacey on the arts
Find out more about BC Arts and Cultural Week: BC Arts And Culture