WHAT’S UP?
Mrs. Williams: Homage to a Homemaker, a new exhibition featuring the artwork of Melanie Thompson and Judith Barnett
WHERE AND WHEN?
It’s on at Deer Lake Gallery, 6584 Deer Lake Ave., from Saturday, May 11 to Saturday, June 1. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, May 11 from noon to 4 p.m.
WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT?
The exhibition, which has been in progress for the past two years, was inspired by an old wooden recipe box given to Barnett by her elderly neighbour, Mrs. Williams. The box contained a collection of recipes, “beautifully scripted in pen and ink,” as a press release notes, which symbolized the work of a lifetime homemaker.
“The box engendered memories of her own childhood for Thompson; her mother having a similar recipe box and being a homemaker, spending hours of each day in the kitchen, cooking, sewing, repairing and being resourceful,” the release said.
“Thompson and Barnett have always appreciated and practised these arts themselves, and believe that ‘women’s work’ is to be celebrated and appreciated as the backbone of society.”
WHAT’S IN THE EXHIBITION?
The two artists created a unique version of a kitchen from the 1950s, complete with dresses, aprons, mixing bowls and handmade books, alongside washing lines, an ironing board, shelving units and furniture – with repurposed materials incorporated throughout the display.
On the walls are collage and painting work that reference the “skill, creativity, determination and resourcefulness” of women at their work.
The release notes that the exhibition incorporates contemporary and unconventional materials in their creations, which brings a “surprise” factor to the installation.
Plus, there will be an interactive segment in the form of a recipe box, with cards on which visitors may write down their own recipes and memories of the time period.
WHY THIS SHOW?
Thompson and Barnett want to celebrate and focus visitors’ attention on the arts and crafts of the woman as homemaker.
“These arts are by no means less skilful for being practical, and Mrs. Williams: Homage to a Homemaker shows us how art can be an inspiration and driver for society,” says the release.
MORE DETAILS, PLEASE:
Find all the information about Deer Lake Gallery and its exhibitions online at www.burnabyartscouncil.org. You can also call 604-298-7322 for information.
