ARTIST PROFILE
The Four And Friends Art Show and Sale, now in its 16th year, is an endeavour of The Bruce Mines and District Chamber of Commerce. This quality art show displays works of art from emerging as well as professional artists from along the North Shore of Lake Huron, Elliot Lake and beyond.
The concept of Four and Friends originated with Chamber President, Brian Torrance, who felt that the high quality of artistic expression in the area could be presented in a fresh and vital manner. He called on local professional artists, Robert Ralph Carmichael, Gwen Keatley, Doug Hook and John Keast and with them developed the format for the show. The Current Four are Doug Bradford, Linda Finn, Doug Hook, and John Keast and they have embraced and maintained the original vision as their own.
For the show, The Four each invite three friends – either professional or emerging artists – to show with them. This results in the dynamics of the show always changing as each year new Friends are invited; hence the show always presents a fresh image to the public. And the show has proven so popular that between 2000 and 3000 visitors attend annually.
This year’s show promises to be a strong and vital one and the organizers are delighted to welcome back Robert Ralph Carmichael, one of the original Four, as well as
Ken Bradford, Gail LaCasse, John Metheany, Carol Myler, Karen Nisbet, Charlie Rapsky, Taimi Poldmaa, Lotte Steube, Rose Sundaram, Tanya Swain, Zoey Wood-Salomon
The talent of these artists and the variety of styles and artistic interpretation will combine to produce a compelling exhibition.
Two significant changes have been made to the show over the years. In 2004 the decision was made to add the work of a sculptor to enhance the overall appearance and diversity of the show. This year Nancy Sachro’s textile, art featuring bold and unique designs, will be a dramatic addition to the show.
In 1997 the committee began to award The Four and Friends Scholarship. This scholarship recognizes the accomplishments of a student graduating from CASS, and the $500.00 award comes from the donations of visitors to the Four and Friends Art Show. The scholarship winner’s work is displayed at the show and this provides the student with an excellent opportunity to meet professional artists and to discuss their styles and their approach to “marketing’ their art.
This year’s show runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 6 to 8 at the Town Hall in Bruce Mines. Hours are from 10:00am to 8:30pm daily except Sunday when the show closes at 5:00pm. Admission is free.
Back to Profile Archive page