Cathy Dobson
There’s good news this week after the pandemic abruptly shut down Sarnia-Lambton’s cultural centres seven months ago.
The Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery is reopening on Saturday, giving the public an opportunity to see two new exhibitions.
But don’t just show up at the corner of Christina and Lochiel streets, pre-pandemic style. Limited numbers will be allowed in the building, which means pre-booking a time by calling 519-336-8127 or visiting jnaag.ca.
Visitors without a pre-booked ticket will only be accommodated if space permits.
Visitors are also asked to monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 prior to their visit and postpone if they feel unwell. Face masks are mandatory, room capacity reduced, and stairwells are designated up or down only.
“We are eager to welcome everyone back and to share our newest exhibitions,” said gallery curator Sonya Blazek.
Three Toronto-based artists with Latin American roots present ‘Ode to the Inside Out Questions.’ Nahum Flores, Erik Jerezano and Ilyana Martinez comprise the Z’otz* Collective and have exhibited the past 15 years around the world.
“Their art will send your imagination spiralling,” said Blazek.
JNAAG is also presenting works by the Group of Seven and several female artists, like Emily Carr, who were initially overshadowed by the iconic male-only group. Paintings from the gallery’s permanent collection are partnered with archival photographs and handwritten notes, telling of the relationship between Group of Seven members and the Sarnia Women’s Conservation Art Association.
JNAAG reopens to the public Saturday, Oct. 3. Hours are Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.; Thursdays 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
A few blocks south on Christina Street, The Lawrence House Centre for the Arts is also re-opening this weekend. Volunteers have been hard at work setting up the main floor gift shop to accommodate physical distancing. Ten people at a time will be allowed in the shop, which will open, starting Oct. 2, with reduced hours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
An online shop has also recently been launched at shop.lawrencehouse.ca. All items for sale are made by local artists.
Art and music programs continue to be on hold. However, the Lawrence House’s new online blog, Uproar, is entering its third month and attracting a growing number of writers and readers.