Cariboo Artists Guild's (CAG) 32nd Annual Show and Sale, Fakes & Forgeries, features a fun theme this year with members submitting their reproductions or personal interpretations of old masters' paintings.
The show will hang at Parkside Art Gallery from July 20 to Sept. 8, and don't be surprised to see a phony Mona Lisa or two or a copy of a painting originally done by Rembrandt or Michelangelo.
If a person has ever dreamed about owning a famous work of art, the paintings will be for sale and this might be a great alternative.
Parkside president Patsy Granberg says the artists have been "pretty hush-hush" about their planned submissions, but she's expecting the show to be interesting. It's already been a thought-provoking journey for the artists.
"It's really good for all of us to not just stick with the things we've mastered. Traditionally, artists have learned from copying the masters. I'm happy to go into uncharted area and learn from them."
During the show, theme paintings will be found near the Parkside entrance and in the foyer, and visitors to the gallery will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite.
Each artist will have up to four other paintings displayed in the main gallery and Granberg says there will be pieces done by new artists who have not yet been seen locally.
All of the works will be subject to a personal critique by a guest judge to provide feedback for the owners' growth and development as artists.
An opening reception on July 20 launches the show and it takes place at the gallery from 5 to 9 p.m., with snacks provided.
Granberg says the artists are looking forward to attending the opening, after months of buildup.
"It's a time for the artists to finally relax and enjoy the sum of their creative effort."
Art Car project
On July 14, Parkside will be inviting the public to drop by and express themselves through the Art Car project.
In support of the Hot July Nights Car & Bike Show, which will be happening in adjacent Centennial Park that day, Parkside will have a car in their parking lot, which people can help decorate with materials supplied by the gallery, or with items they bring from home.
There will be no pre-determined theme, but Granberg says she hopes people will build on each other's contributions while incorporating their own ideas.
She adds the car project is a perfect vehicle for stirring creativity.
"Cars have always been a symbol of freedom to many. We want people to take this as an opportunity for freedom of expression in art."
If all goes well, the car will remain in the parking lot throughout the summer so people can continue to add to it.
