Every Picture Tells a Story

Every Picture Tells a Story

04-25-14

Madeline Willson

            I heard from friends that our English class will be walking to the art gallery to view the current show called Styx n Stones. I was unimpressed at first, seeing as I had just visited this exhibit. As I walked out the front doors, I realized how art shows are like taking a trip abroad. No matter how long you spend there, you can never see everything on the first visit. It’s nice to take a break and come back again with fresh eyes, to take in more of what the art has to offer.

            Walking along Ellis Street, I overheard that most of our class had never been here before. I was a bit disappointed to hear this, but honestly not surprised. I suspected that many of my classmates would think this would be lame. Flowers were popping up between cracks in the pavement and pink cherry blossoms were opening up to say hello. Vibrant yellows and greens were showing themselves on bushes around me. Worms, who had wandered out to soak up last night’s rain, were exposing themselves to hungry pigeons.

            Travelling this street, I’m reminded of parking along here during Peachfest with my family, when other surrounding parking spots were taken by families excited for the annual event. As I glance about, the urban gardens that seem to be popping up remind me of similar projects going on in Vancouver. It made me happy to see, they are such a positive addition to a city, happy, healthy, and helping those who need a distraction.

            As we reached the gallery, Mr. Laven met us at the door, discussing expectations and reminding us of our manners. When I stepped inside I remembered all the times I’ve been to openings here. In the main showroom, I’m drawn to a piece called Breaking Free From the Bully Conundrum, by artist Dianne Bersea. It’s a piece on four canvases, painted in dark oils. Her thick brush strokes seemed to portray a release of pent up anger. The top left canvas was of a rocking horse covered in shadows, which represent a difficult childhood. The bottom has harsh words splayed across the canvas. On the right, was a hand with string tied to the fingers that lead to the bottom image. The strings used to be attached to three silhouettes, but were now cut and frayed. The three silhouettes were of a man and two girls who I interpreted as her father, sister and her. They are painted with deep tonal shadows which, to me, show a sort of anger and embarrassment. Art is so important to society. It’s a healthy outlet for one’s feelings, while being able to beautifully display messages to others.

            Strolling back to the school at a more leisurely pace, I found myself thinking about the beauty of art galleries. How impressive it is that so many different messages, works from artists all around, can be put in one area, and together convey such an exact message. This was an intense exhibit and I’m glad I had the chance to experience it twice.