Cathy Dobson 
There are several details about the new Gallery in the Grove juried exhibition that set it apart.
Not only does the new show provide a fabulous splash of colour on a dull winter day, it attracted the largest number of submissions in the gallery’s history.
“I think the amount of interest is probably a positive by-product of the pandemic,” says co-chair Kirsten Kilner Holmes. “People had time on their hands to get creative.
“The result is that we had over 200 submissions by established artists and younger, emerging artists from all across Southwestern Ontario. The quality of their work is incredible.”
Two local jurors selected 48 pieces for the show, which opens Saturday from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Three prizes for the most inspiring use of colour will be handed out at 1 p.m.
Eighteen in the show are recognized local artists but many others have never shown in Sarnia, said Kilner Holmes who is co-chairing this exhibition with Leanne O’Brien.
“It was fascinating to meet these new artists as they delivered their work,” she said.
The gallery is expecting a packed house at the opening because so many artists are involved. Only one artist has two pieces in the show. That is Sarnia photographer Sandi Spaulding, which means 47 artists could be attending Saturday.
A juried exhibition that attracts new artists is especially good for the gallery, said Kilner Holmes. “It’s a great way to identify artists for future shows.”
The Gallery in the Grove is a non-profit organization operated entirely by volunteers for the past 43 years. New spring hours are starting with this show. They are: Monday – Thursday 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. For further details, visit www.galleryinthegrove.com.
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Call Out for Colour Exhibition
WHEN: Opening is Saturday, March 4 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Prizes announced at 1 p.m. Show continues until April 22.
WHERE: The Gallery in the Grove, 2618 Hamilton Rd., Bright’s Grove.