Stonetown Arts celebrating 15 years of showcasing local creativity with annual Art Show & Sale
By Galen Simmons
For 15 years, the Stonetown Arts Annual Art Show & Sale has given local artists an opportunity to showcase their creativity while giving residents and visitors a chance to discover just how much artistic talent exists in St. Marys and the surrounding area.
That tradition continues over the final two weekends of November when 25 local artists, including four newcomers, will display and sell their work at Riverwalk Commons, 84 Water St. S.
“We are really excited that this year is our 15th anniversary,” said Cathy Atwell, chair of the show and sale committee. “This is our one big signature event of the year. And people, over the years, as it’s become better and better known, look forward to it.”
This year’s show will feature a diverse collection of original artwork, including acrylic and oil paintings, encaustic art, glass, wood, textiles, jewellery and mixed media. Every piece is unique and has not appeared in a previous Stonetown Arts show.
Among the returning attractions is the popular Members’ Challenge, which invites participating artists to create original works on five-by-seven-inch birch panels using a common theme.
This year’s theme, “On the Farm,” celebrates the area’s agricultural roots, with each piece available for $50. To commemorate the anniversary, every Members’ Challenge creation will also bear a special stamp on the back.
Behind the scenes, preparing the annual exhibition takes considerable work from a dedicated committee of volunteers and participating artists.
Atwell said artist Annette Goodale coordinates the exhibition’s layout, while a team of experienced artists carefully arranges the pieces to create a cohesive display.
“When the art comes in on art-intake day, that’s my favourite day of the year,” Atwell said, describing the excitement of seeing everyone’s creations for the first time.
Kathy Blake, co-chair of Stonetown Arts and a show committee member, said the exhibition also fosters friendships and mentorship among participating artists.
“There’s no competition,” Blake said, explaining that more experienced artists willingly share their knowledge and techniques with those just starting out.
The exhibition’s opening reception, Nov. 20 from 6-9 p.m., will feature refreshments and special anniversary cupcakes. It coincides with the St. Marys Santa Claus Parade, so visitors should anticipate possible road closures and limited parking.
The show continues Nov. 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Nov. 22 from noon to 5 p.m., Nov. 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Nov. 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is free, and the venue is accessible by a rear ramp. Artwork can be purchased using cash, cheque or e-transfer.
While sales are appreciated, Atwell said the greatest reward comes from seeing people discover and appreciate the community’s artistic talent.
“It’s a way of bringing something to the community; being able to bring this beauty to the community just for their pleasure,” she said.
As always, Atwell extends her thanks to the show’s organizing committee: Julia Armstrong, Rob Anderson, Blake, Sandy Craig, Bonnie Innes, Donal O’Connor and Paula Wilcox.
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