Esther Sample and Joe Smith, two of the Comox Valley’s fine artists, have been invited to participate in the West Fine Art Show Sept. 7 to 9 in South Surrey.
The show put together by renowned artist Murray Phillips has been developed as an opportunity to cross boundaries, using art as a medium to raise funds in support of Indspire, an organization that supports indigenous education.
Each year, only 15 to 20 of Western Canada’s exceptionally talented artists are invited to participate in an event that takes place at Senator Gerry St. Germain’s Indian Springs Cattle and Land Company in South Surrey.
When asked for her thoughts about the event Sample said, “I am very excited to be a part of this art show. It is a terrific opportunity to raise money for Indigenous education and at the same time join other artists in a celebration of fantastic music and art.”
Smith added that for the two of them to be included in this select group is somewhat of a humbling experience. However he did add that it was nice to know that Island artists are being recognized as having the skills to be able to showcase their work alongside some very accomplished artists.
Sample also added that as artists we have a gift that we are able to use to not only share what we see around us but to be able to use that as a tool to inspire others to give in support of future generations is very special.
One of the feature artists is well known media personality Red Robinson, who has been inducted into the Comox Valley Walk of Fame. Unknown by many he was keenly interested in art early in his career and did pen and ink sketches of the many people he met and admired. Some of the sketches will be on display for the first time at the show.
Another guest artist will be Shell Busey, the well-known home improvement guru who will join the ranks of the other artists with a “surprise” display of his own.
Sample and Smith, who are accomplished in their own genre, say they are looking forward to the experience and invite art patrons to visit the show’s website www.westart.ca to find out more about the show and its fundraising component.
Learn more about Sample and Smith by visiting their websites at www.esthersample.com and www.joesmith.ca.