The Comox Valley Art Gallery has instigated a gathering of community collaborators to look at and reimagine possibilities for how humans, machines and data interface.
The projects offer unique starting points for inquiry into the shifting terrain of shared language, intuitive and resonant gestures, and communications – internally and in the world around us. The thematic program, Constant Change, opening April 6 at CVAG (1-5 p.m.) highlights creatives engaged with high and low technology in their lives, work, education and practices.
Seeing Through Technology is a presentation new work by artist Heather Koning, in the gallery’s main and window spaces April 6 – June 8.
“I take on the role of cultural observer, re-spinning narratives that challenge my place, my sense of belonging, bringing the viewer along with me in this endless quest for answers, logic and relationship,” said Koning.
AT WILL, also created by Koning, is situated in CVAG’s George Sawchuk gallery. This work offers a kinetic invitation to the community.
“This artwork is designed for movement, for impulse and reaction,” she said.
Koning acquired her BFA through Emily Carr University of Art and Design at North Island College, then went on to complete her master of fine arts at the University of Victoria. Koning is now situated in Port Alberni.
Presentation of Research + Creation Projects that include art-based technology experiments and virtual reality explorations run concurrently at CVAG with Koning’s exhibition.
“Virtual reality offers limitless potential for expression, but this is difficult to grasp without experiencing it first-hand,” said Matt Adamson of Spaces VR in Courtenay.
In collaboration with CVAG, Spaces VR is sponsoring a creative residency for emerging and established artists: Angela Bedard, Cassidy Gehmlich, Clive Powsey, Emma Heitzmann and Roxane Fortin. Currently, and during the run of Constant Change, these artists are taking their traditional art practices into the realm of VR for creative exploration.
Community drop-in opportunities to engage with their projects will be available at GATHER :PLACE/CVAG during opening day events, and during regular gallery hours. On May 31 a special presentation event will be held at Spaces VR.
The technology and art-based experiments of SD71 NIDES Enter + E2 programs will be presented at CVAG during the Constant Change thematic program. The community is invited to the opening day event and to visit the gallery during regular hours, Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., to participate in this art and technology thematic program.
CVAG programs and events are all ages, and free. Donations gratefully accepted. More details can be found at www.comoxvalleyartgallery.com.