Opening Reception: October 2, 2014 / 7 p.m.
This curated group exhibition with over 25 artists had an eclectic mix of works and approaches to representing urban issues and architecture. Potter artist Heidi Mckenzie had a ceramic work that resembled twisted metal, while textile artist Jen Tsuchida’s wall mounted work resembled a high rise.
Artists Heidi McKenzie & Orest Tataryn
Artist Jen Tsuchida in front of her work
Painter Kurt Rostek’s two works were a comment of the proliferation of condo projects on the rise in Toronto. Hamilton artist Paul Elia’s drawing of King St. West near John Street and King West captured the many little bistros on the streetscape and their fears of the invasive high rises such as the ones built on the site of TIFF.
Artist Kurt Rostek and his works
Paul Elia, King Street West near John Street and King West
On Natalie Draz’s paper work the city is folded out like an accordion with several layers revealing the complexity of it. Graham Krenz carvings such as Commutting were pleasing to visitors. KIAM’s mixed media work, of the iconic Honest Eds Bargain House, represented the Toronto urban landscape well.
Graham Krenz, Commutting
KIAM
Architect Dominique Cheng had a detailed architectural rendering, titled 1331, for viewers to check out. Lori Dells layered painting Babylonia was a central point to the exhibition. Artist Maryse Otjacques mixed media series Where Are Our Houses used text and imagery well. Morgan Skinner’s dark comic trypthic work with peanuts characters and had lots to say about urban living.
Work by Dominique Cheng
Morgan Skinner’s comic trypthic (right)
Seasoned artists such as Lois Anderson, Orest Tataryn and Stephen Andrews dropped by to support fellow artists.
Stephan Andrews and Lois Anderson
The Panel Talk on October 8 with journalist, John C. Barber, Jane Perdue (Public Art Coordinator, Urban Design City of Toronto), Tim Jones (CEO of Artscape) and others will create some dialogue on the impact artists make on their cities. The talk is free and runs from 7 – 9 p.m. at Gallery 1313.
Text and photo: Phil Anderson
*Exhibition information: October 2 – 12, 2014, Gallery 1313 Main Gallery, 1313 Queen Street West, Toronto. Gallery hours: Wed – Sun 1 – 6 p.m.