A new art exhibition, “unscene,” is delving into themes of presence and belonging within the St. Catharines arts community, particularly focusing on individuals with lived experiences of mental illness and substance use. Hosted by the Willow Arts Community (Willow), the exhibition is being held at the Visual Arts Gallery and Exhibition Space at Brock University’s Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts (MIWSFPA). The exhibition is open to the public until Saturday, June 15.
Exhibition Details:
Title: unscene
Location: Visual Arts Gallery and Exhibition Space, MIWSFPA, Brock University, St. Catharines
Duration: Until Saturday, June 15
Opening Reception: Friday, May 31, 5 to 7 p.m.
The participating artists have created works that reflect on their personal connections to the downtown St. Catharines arts scene and explore how their voices are heard and experiences perceived by the wider arts community. The opening reception will feature a live performance by The Willow Choir, which will perform a song written by Willow community members and composed by choir conductor Sarah Jerrom.
About Willow Arts Community:
Willow Arts Community provides low-barrier opportunities for individuals to engage in peer-to-peer arts education. It fosters a safe space for creative exploration, enabling community members to express themselves and share their experiences through art.
This exhibition and the work of Willow highlight the importance of creating inclusive spaces where individuals with mental health and substance use experiences can engage with the arts, express their creativity, and contribute to the cultural landscape of their community.