The 2023/2024 Gather at the Gallery season has been something to remember. We have seen a lot of new faces joining us to participate in this growing community, and new committee members who have been dedicating their time to the success of this program. This year of programming has shown us what’s possible when we open the doors to try new things: it brings together like-minded folks and creates friendships, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. We are immensely grateful to the RTO/ERO for sponsoring this program, and allowing us to grow and thrive with their support. To celebrate our year of programming, we wanted to give our participants the opportunity to display their artwork in a community exhibition. Each participant brought forth a unique perspective to their plate that reflects who they are. These plates are for us, and we hope you’ll join us at the table someday, too.
Brenda
During Gather at the Gallery programs, I’ve enjoyed learning and using different techniques to make and paint clay & glass creations. I’ve used brushstroke, handbuilding, and more. I thought I would experiment with a new technique, so I decided to incorporate printmaking and apply painted designs by stamping them with found objects. I always gravitate towards blues and greens, and I wanted to explore something new.
Laurie
Inspired by my mother’s love of the Christmas season. We were nurtured during our childhood, and mom is always the forefront of my mind during these creative, thoughtful activities.
Deb
I used stencils & paint. I painted it for my granddaughter Zola who loves farm animals.
Cailin
Family. Connected, loving, cohesive, caring, gentle, appreciated, cherished, good-hearted, love.
Kerry
As we rush through life, we musn’t forget to leave time for what’s important! On those especially busy days, when there really is no time to accomplish all that needs to get done, give yourself permission to eat dessert first!
Diana
Some of my favourite memopries as a child are going to Sauble beach with my family. My sisters and I would get very excited at the first sight of Lake Huron. Since then, our cottage tradition has continued with my own family. Lake Huron has always been a highlight as we enjoy the cool, refreshing water in the day and rush down for the beautiful sunsets at night. My plate represents Lake Huron and all the memories it holds for me.
Gisele
Walking through the woods & seeing the wild things grow.
Maria Z.
Poppies — I love the vivid colours.
Mary
Our garden is a source of joy for us. We have flowers for all seasons, & love watching the bees, butterflies & hummingbirds come to enjoy the flowers too!
Anne
As I retired from teaching in June 2023, I was looking forward to finding a new way to contribute to my community and stay connected. This year has been a wonderful revelation! I volunteer at an outdoor nature center (that also keeps bees) so I hang out with kids a lot. I also volunteer regularly at the donkey sanctuary shovelling poop and hanging out with the lovely donkeys and mules. I’m outside 4 days a week, tromping in fields, getting dirty. On Thursdays I make art at the Gallery with a new, retired teacher who has become a friend. A perfect new year!
Maria C.
Thankful for the happiness and joy of seeing a beautiful sunflower.
Marianne
Lady bugs are the only bug I can tolerate. They are small and cute.
Christina
When I do art, I enter into a state of calm as I begin to create. I wanted to capture the theme of a summertime feeling. Hidden within my waves are a sea turtle and a fish that show that sometimes you have to look and think about what lies beneath. On the back of the plate are four cats symbolizing N,S,E,W — the directions we may take.
Bette
When I was little, I was always told to eat my vegetables and never liked them. Now that I am older, my tastes have changed. I enjoy eating them! Vegetables are so unique in colour and texture — they are truly a work of nature.
Maria
This plate’s design is inspired by our cat Oliver who will spend an endless amount of time in various positions, patiently watching birds from his indoor window perch as they come to the bird feeders.
Gather at the Gallery is a weekly event presented specifically for the 55+ community. Each month from September to June there will be opportunities to meet artists, preview new exhibitions or express your own creativity.
This program is generously supported by:
