It’s a pretty big art show by anyone’s standards, even the Art Gallery of Alberta’s and it doesn’t even take place in a gallery.
Chrysalis, the Edmonton chapter of a provincial society dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities, is celebrating the third year of its art therapy program with a show held on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. It takes place Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. and features more than 200 artworks from dozens of artists from the metropolitan Edmonton area, including St. Albert’s Meranda Parravano, Marc Curial and Charlie Weinzeirl.
“The art program continues to grow and evolve along with its young artists who, on a daily basis, demonstrate their commitment and creativity as they explore new techniques and styles. They continue to amaze us all with their talent,” said Lynn Groves Hautmann, the president and CEO of the organization.
Since its inception in February 2008, the art therapy program has done nothing but grow in size and scope. Many works produced by its participants are on display around the city, including a large showcase that was recently opened at the Edmonton International Airport. A substantial expansion of a renovated 325-sq.-metre (3,500-sq.-ft.) art studio was also necessary to accommodate the increased demand.
Matt Mandrusiak, manager of corporate communications, said, “It’s taken off big time. We’re already into our third art studio. We just kept running out of space in the old one. They’ve only been in there for two months and it looks like they’ve been in there since the beginning of the program. It’s a really cool space.”
The show will also feature the grand opening of the new permanent art gallery. Tours of the new studio will be running as well. Many of the artists will be on hand to discuss their works. Proceeds from sales will be split with 70 per cent going back to the artist and 30 per cent going to support the purchase of supplies for the program.
Chrysalis is located at 13325 St. Albert Trail in Edmonton. To learn more about the show or the organization, call 780-454-9656 or visit www.chrysalis.ab.ca.
