Sunday, September 20, 2009

The Nature of Island Artists




I have been asked to participate once again in this bi-annual fundraiser for The Goldstream Nature House which continues through September until October 12, 2009. Over 70 Vancouver Island and Gulf Island artists are exhibiting their creations: wood and stone sculpture; oil, acrylic and watercolour painting, photography, fabric art, clay works and much more.

"The theme of this year's show is 'Art to Heart: Connecting with Nature through the Creation of Art'. There are many ways to connect with our environment, but there is a particular intimacy in the connection made between an artist and their subject. This year...we will be running nature art programs in which schoolchildren will get the chance to immerse themselves in nature and forge those important emotional connections. We will also be exhibiting "inspired by nature" murals created by local Vancouver Island classes.
Funding in schools has reached a critical low and opportunities for field trips and activities have become fewer. For more than a decade, schoolchildren were able to attend educational programs and experience the salmon run firsthand at Goldstream Provincial Park for free because of provincial funding. In April 2002, this funding was withdrawn and hundreds of classes were missing the opportunity to connect with nature. Fortunately, the Goldstream Nature House and the Habitat Acquisition Trust have been endeavoring to provide these educational experiences to children by raising funds to offset the cost for schools wishing to attend salmon run programs. One of the ways we make this possible is through the proceeds raised from the Nature of Island Arts Show." Nicole Polet, Naturalist, Goldstream Nature House



Field Study © 2009 Kristine Paton SOLD

Artists' works are available for purchase outright and some through a silent auction bidding process. Visit the gift section where you will find prints and art cards for sale. Every little bit helps!