Imagine walking along a pathway in a tree-lined park, and you see, in a space along the shores of a river, a plinth with a work of art. This is the experience you can have in River Park, as it is the home for the “Get Out Gallery”, an initiative by the Weyburn Arts Council, now in its second year. The exhibition, in place now, features the work of local potter Lorena Squires.
Squires is a local artist whose work is ideal for a setting like the “Get Out Gallery”, explained Regan Lanning, the City of Weyburn curator and arts coordinator.
“Her works are very natureful,” Lanning said. “She loves the outdoors and is greatly inspired by the outdoors, so this venue was a perfect fit for her.”
Three of Squires’ works are on display in the park, each displayed on its own plinth, with a plexiglass cover to protect it from the elements.
The reception of the gallery has been good, according to Lanning. She noted that for residents and visitors alike, the experience of happening across a piece of art in an area you wouldn’t expect has been a joy. The park also adds a casual element to the exhibition, compared to the more formal feeling of an indoor art gallery
“Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive,” Lanning stated. “Residents enjoy happening upon some works of art, but they also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere around viewing the art at River Park.”
The “Get Out Gallery” has quickly become a successful endeavour for the Weyburn Arts Council. While it is only in its second year, it is already a fixture in the community, and one that artists are eager to take part in.
“It's been a really neat program that's in its second year, and I'm excited for it to go on for many years,” Lanning outlined. “I have an artist lined up already for next year.”
The Get Out Gallery in River Park will feature the works of Lorena Squires until September 30th, offering a unique and enjoyable art experience in River Park. Residents and visitors are encouraged to take in the exhibit while it is still up, experiencing the creativity and the vibrancy of the Weyburn arts community.