Arts 2017: Reflections on Canada

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Alanna Edwards, "Mi'Kma'ki," 2017

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Opening Reception Friday, June 23, 7−9pm Celebrate summer with artworks that reflect on Canada for our Arts 2017 juried exhibition presented in conjunction with the Arts Council of Surrey. Form remarks and the awards presentation begins at 7:15pm.

Panel DiscussionThursday, July 27, 7−8:30pm Join artists to talk about Canada 150 themes in the Arts 2017 juried exhibition. This conversation is held in partnership with the Arts Council of Surrey.

Kick off the summer by discovering the diverse talent that’s right in our midst. The Arts Council of Surrey presents their 33nd juried exhibition showcasing a wide variety of artworks by established and emerging visual artists from across the Lower Mainland at Surrey Art Gallery on June 23 from 7 to 9pm. In conjunction with Canada's 150th anniversary, Arts 2017: Reflections on Canada features over forty artworks that consider the ideas, realities, and myths associated with Canada. The exhibition and related events are free.

This year’s annual juried exhibition invited local artists to share their thoughts and interpretations on our country. While the call to artists encouraged artists to reflect on themes such as the environment, diversity, inclusion, youth, and reconciliation, most of the submissions chose to engage with landscape and the environment. Visitors to the exhibition will see a variety of responses to these themes, both in content and form. A number of other works play with or challenge iconic Canadian symbols like the beaver, floatplane, and maple leaf flag, while others introduce new imagery and metaphors to consider. Certain artworks highlight the complexity of what it means to be Canadian, questioning what that looks like in our digital age or what it means from the perspective of a new arrival to the country. From sculptural pieces in fabric, wood, and beads to paintings, drawings, photographs, and mixed media works, there is a little bit of everything for visitors to enjoy. Visitors are invited to vote for the People’s Choice Award that will be announced at the end of the exhibition.

This annual juried show generates awareness of local artists’ work, and often plays an important role in emerging artists’ professional development. Each year, the jury is charged with nominating artworks to receive first, second, third, and honourable mention awards in the categories of Painting: Works on Canvas; Painting: Works on Paper; Drawing, 2-D Mixed Media & Printmaking; 3-D Works & Fibre Arts; and Photography & New Media. Works are selected for their technical skill, the demonstration of innovative artistic thinking, and the extent to which they address the theme. ARTS 2017 is organized by the Arts Council of Surrey and presented with the assistance of Surrey Art Gallery.