Harcourt’s Studios: Art in Isolation
The Main Gallery, July 10 to August 14, 2020
Harcourt House Artist Run Centre, 3rd floor, 10215 – 112 St, Edmonton
The critical role the arts have in society has never been clearer, as people from all walks of life seek solace and try to find meaning in these strange and surreal times of COVID-19 pandemic. Many artists and arts organizations around the globe – including the tenant artists in Harcourt House’s studios – are stepping up their work to entertain, educate, debate, and inspire, and to do the crucial work that helps us all to cope with the sudden social distancing directives and – at the same time – helps us to remain sane and connected. Curated by Darren Kooyman, Harcourt House’s Exhibition and Art Education Programs Coordinator, the Harcourt’s Studios: Art in Isolation exhibition embraces the rich and conceptual diversity of 8 works by 8 of Harcourt’s tenant artists working in a variety of media who, despite of COVID-19 pandemic, were regularly present in their art studios at Harcourt House to continue their respective creative practices. They are: Bonnie Bigley, Yvonne DuBourdieu, Julian Forrest, Robert Harpin, Deirdre McCleneghan, Tammy Salzl, Ben Sures, and Mary Whale. Their works stand as the summary of the voices of individual artists in defiance to the profound events of and experiences with COVID-19 pandemic that are taking place not only globally, but immediately around us: in our families, neighbourhoods, communities, and within ourselves. This exhibition not only celebrates the strength, determination, and resiliency of Harcourt House’s arts community, but also demonstrates that art is a vital source of comfort, creativity, and inspiration to the public during this stressful time, and proves that even in a period of personal distancing, art brings us closer together than ever before.
WARNING: Images of nudity.
NOTE: Harcourt’s art galleries are closed to the public until further notice. The presentation of both exhibitions will only be featured online at www.harcourthouse.ab.ca.
images courtesy of the artists
photographs by Jack Bawden
