More than 150 pieces of local artwork will be on display today at the Oxygen Art Market. The works are hung from floor to ceiling in a “Salon” style.
Boukie Elzinga has been the head art hanger for the event for the past four years and said she’s “hooked”.
The works are made by over 40 Kootenay artists from senior to emerging, and many of whom are founding and/or active members of the artist-run centre. As well as artists from all over whom have exhibited or been residents at the Centre over the last decade.
Oxygen Art Market is a major fundraiser for Oxygen Art Centre, which is a not for profit organization and a registered charity, and produces year round arts programming, including six months of exhibitions and residencies that are free for the public to attend.
“Artists are donating 50 per cent, and in some cases even 100 per cent of their artwork sales to Oxygen,” said market Executive Director Miriam Needoba. “The event is great in that it brings in funds both to the Centre and the local art community, and provides everyone with a chance to take home some original and locally made art for their walls.
There are opportunities for collectors and great deals to be had. It is a treat to just to drop by and see so many artists in one space.”
From the colourful paintings of Nicole Hobbs to the reworked books of Brad Bradley there is something for everyone. The art market opens today at 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. and continues over the weekend: Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information visit www.oxygenartcentre.org.