A group of artists painting en plein air (outside, on-location) are trying to bring awareness to the McMillan Arts Centre (the MAC) to try and keep the art gallery housed in the old building alive.
“Since the gallery doesn’t receive any funding they are in a very dangerous position and we are concerned they might not be able to carry on,” said Helene McIntosh, one of the original members of the Wednesday painting group.
The group was formed in 2001 at the Rogue Gallery in Parksville, but after it was shut down they relocated to the MAC. In the summer months the classrooms they use at the MAC hold children’s programs so they take to the outdoors and have painted recently at Little Qualicum Falls, Rathtrevor Park and the Craig Heritage Park Museum and Archives.
“It’s a very enthusiastic group,” said McIntosh, “we enjoy the benefits of being together, we critique one-another, the camaraderie is good and it’s our social life.”
Many of the painters are highly skilled and a show of their work will be held at the MAC throughout August. The opening reception is Friday, August 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. and refreshments will be served. Donna Hales, one of the original members in the group, will be playing the keyboard at the reception.
Two other shows currently up at the MAC are It’s a Small World, with intriguing miniature paintings as well as Close-Ups:Photography.
McIntosh is hoping others in the community will want to join the Wednesday painters group, or perhaps form another group at the MAC.
For more information contact the MAC at www.mcmillanartscentre.com or call 250-248-8185.