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Artists who sell in glass houses shouldn’t create alone

Cathy Dobson The unpredictable weather of early October is the reason a newer art show has chosen to locate in a greenhouse, where the glass roof protects all works from the elements.
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Watercolour artist Mark McLean chairs this year’s Art Under Glass Show and Sale at DeGroot’s Nurseries. Cathy Dobson

Cathy Dobson

The unpredictable weather of early October is the reason a newer art show has chosen to locate in a greenhouse, where the glass roof protects all works from the elements.

Hence the name: Art Under Glass Show & Sale, says chair Mark McLean.

It’s also a nod to watercolour artists like himself who must protect their paintings with glass and frame.

Art Under Glass began four years ago as a fall event at DeGroot’s Nurseries and has grown ever since.  The 2016 version will run Oct. 1 and 2 and feature the work of about 30 artisans.

This is the first year it’s been juried, said McLean.

“Our intention is to improve the quality of the show so people can anticipate a higher calibre of artwork.”

Art Under Glass also features a booth in which local high school students can display their work at no charge. It’s a way to open the art world to youth and give them insight into exhibiting, McLean explained.  Students are exempt from the juried process and can collect community service hours, he said.

Art Under Glass grew out of the loss of an annual studio tour that was popular for many years. Most local artists slowly lost interest in hosting the tour in their home studios, McLean said.

“So they ended up with a show at DeGroot’s instead, but, when that dissolved, a couple of the artists started a new show.”

McLean credits photographer Jim Wynne and watercolour artist Jack Keefe with spearheading Art Under Glass.

This year’s show features a wide variety of works including paintings in all media, jewelry, glasswork, turned wood, fabric art, photography and more.

DeGroot’s Teahouse will serve in the greenhouse exhibit area, and a portion of the exhibitors’ fee will be donated to the Inn of the Good Shepherd.

IF YOU GO:

WHAT: Art Under Glass Show & Sale

WHERE: DeGroot’s Nurseries, 1840 London Line

WHEN: Oct. 1: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Oct. 2: Noon – 4 p.m.

OTHER: Free admission. For details, visit www.artunderglasslambton.com.


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