Artists of the Lake, a collective of 30 to 50 creators who live and work along the shores of Lake Winnipeg, are presenting the second annual WaterWorld art fair this weekend. The show features more than 300 pieces of water-themed artwork, including paintings, photography, drawing, textiles, pottery and jewelry, all displayed in the ballroom of the Lakeview Hotel from Sept. 26 to 28.
Sharon Cory, one of the organizers, said the group knew they wanted to make WaterWorld an annual event after the success of last year’s launch.
“WaterWorld” seemed to be a natural theme for the show, as so many artists get their inspiration from the beauty of Lake Winnipeg and all the creatures who depend on the lake for survival,” she said. “We’re continuing the theme because water is such a universal component in people’s work. And, of course, it ties in with Gimli’s Culture Days theme of ‘Life’s a Beach.’”
The Artists of the Lake collective includes painters, potters, photographers, glass workers, textile artists, jewelry makers and printmakers. Membership ranges from professional artists to beginners and hobbyists, with no formal structure or jury process.
“It’s open to everyone and to all art, whether it’s fine art or craft. It’s all on the artistic spectrum,” Cory explained. “Artists can bring as many pieces as they like that fit the theme. If an artist wants it in, then it’s in. The Lakeview Ballroom is a beautiful big room, and we’ve been able to configure any arrangement necessary to get all the work on display.”
For Cory, Lake Winnipeg itself is a constant source of inspiration.
“My own work is heavily influenced by the proximity of Lake Winnipeg and, in fact, we moved to Gimli for that reason. I paint beach people, sailboats, seagulls, pelicans — in fact, all the life forms that exist and thrive on the lake.”
This year’s show also supports the Gimli Youth Hub/Hailey’s Way and its efforts to build a youth-dedicated community centre. “
We think the goal of building a youth centre/drop-in is a great idea and their committee has been working hard to raise their visibility in the community,” Cory said. “Making art is a wonderful way for kids to express themselves and find out who they are.”
Visitors will find a silent auction table, an art activity centre, a fundraising raffle and information about the project, with youth members on hand to share their vision.
Friday evening’s opening reception doubles as a Nuit Blanche stop during Culture Days Gimli.
“Nuit Blanche will be part of our Friday night opening of the WaterWorld show, beginning at 6, and everyone’s invited to come down to Centre Street and participate in all the activities that are planned over the weekend,” Cory said.
The WaterWorld Art Fair runs Sept. 26 to 28 in the ballroom of the Lakeview Hotel in Gimli. Show hours are Friday from 1 to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free, and purchases can be made by cash, e-transfer or debit and credit card. For more information, contact Sharon Cory at sharoncory.cory@gmail.com or 204-479-7662.
