From modest beginnings in 2009 with nine exhibiting artists, Grasslands Gallery now displays the diverse work of 19 artists and artisans who produce oil, acrylic and watercolour paintings, gold and silver jewelry, photography, clay murals, hand-dyed textiles, polymer jewelry, artist notebooks and decorative pillow covers that celebrate southwest Saskatchewan and Grasslands National Park.
James R. Page is a wilderness photographer and writer who has recently relocated from Victoria BC to Val Marie. His remarkable images capture luminous reflected light and the poignant expressions of wild animals and birds as few photographers can.
Elizabeth Kirschenman was born on her grandparents' original homestead west of Richmound, and now lives with her husband on a ranch along the Saskatchewan and Alberta border. Her detailed paintings of closely observed coulees and their unique vegetation will bring memories of the hills back to all who get to know them.
Long-time contributors to life in the village of Val Marie, Mette and Robert Ducan are well known as operators of the Convent Country Inn. Less well known is their love for transforming semi-precious and unusual stones into hand-made sterling silver and gold jewelry. Robert creates one-of-a-kind hand-polished stone belt buckles, and Mette suspends gems in asymmetric and hand-knotted wire settings.
Other artists represented include Maria Enns, Emily Gillies, Judy Gunter, Stephanie Kaduck, Sally Knelsen, Catherine Macaulay, Cora Macaulay, Laureen Marchand, Mike McIntosh, Wendy Parsons, Lousie Perrin, Elaine Robitaille, Laurel Rossnagel, Marsha Schuld and Colleen Watson.
Beginning Nov. 18 and continuing until Dec. 11, Grasslands Gallery will open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from noon until 4 p.m. or by appointment at 298-7782.
