The St. Albert Public Library had some redecorating done recently and patrons will reap the visual benefits, all thanks to the Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA).
The library is the exhibit space for a selection of 12 photographs and oil paintings by renowned Canadian artist and journalist Dan Hudson. He has had his work featured in National Geographic and Rolling Stone magazines with numerous cover shots on his résumé. Here we are treated to Expedition, a small but vivid look through his eyes as he explores adventure and travel images.
Communications assistant Shelley Martell explained that the idea arose out of Alberta Arts Days in 2009 when the library first had art on display. It was so well received by the public that they decided to do it again this year.
“We did it last year. We brought in one of these travelling art exhibits through the AFA. We had a lot of positive comments about it from patrons, visitors, staff alike,” she said. “So this year we wanted to get a head start on it. We actually booked two exhibits. We have one going now and we will switch it up in September.”
She said the works are very eye-catching and breathtaking, and that public response so far has been very positive.
“They’re really enjoying it. The comments have just been great.”
The library has also produced a brochure guide for the show for visitors to pick up and take their own self-guided tours. Only seven are on display at a time due to wall space constraints so images are rotated in and out to give them all equal show time.
The facility’s director said that having art in the library is a great new feature and a wonderful way to further develop its atmosphere of nurturing creativity and thought.
“People naturally think of the library as a temple for words, but we’re more than that,” said director Peter Bailey. “This is a beautiful building and we want people to always feel welcome to come into their library. This is a place where people can find resources to learn about art in all forms. Bringing in the art exhibits is another way to bring this all together.”
Expedition: Dan Hudson will remain until Aug. 31. Along the River Road, a series of historically based paintings by Katherine Braid juxtaposed with contemporary photographs by Mark Freeman, will be on display in September. To learn more about the program, call the library at 780-459-1530 or visit www.sapl.ab.ca.
