Local artists got a chance to connect, showcase their art, and raise money for the Veterans Food Bank at the Calgary Creative Art Guild’s semi-annual fall show.
Hosting over 25 artists from around Calgary, the art show was hosted in the Montgomery Community Centre, where local photographers, woodworkers, and painters braved the cold weather to discuss techniques, reconnect with old friends, to view and purchase artwork. Donations were also accepted, with the proceeds going to the Veterans Food Bank.
The Calgary Creative Arts Guild has been convening since 2012, and members meet every two weeks to discuss artistic techniques and learn from other local artists. Members such as Susan Hull, an acrylic painter, highlighted the positive impact that a group of like-minded people can have. “As an artist, because you spend a lot of time alone, you also need the group support of peers. People that understand what it is that we do when we’re not out showing work.”
“If a painting is not working, why is it not working? But then all the technical aspects of actually getting a piece ready to show, so learning how to put hardware on the back, find framing for things. It’s nice to have peer support for all those questions that pop up, and all the problem solving with being an artist.”
The group also helps local artists get off the ground and start making a profit from their work. In addition to discussing artistic techniques, there are volunteer opportunities for developing artists that centre on how to price art, how to put their work on display, and techniques for marketing.
Erik Larsen, a photographer who has taken wildlife photos all over the world, gave some advice to new artists. “Try. You don’t like it. Try something else. Do something else. Don’t get stuck at one thing you know, just explore, explore. And as I said before, don’t do it because some people might like it, do it because you like it.”
