Members of Cochrane’s artistic community are planning a showcase of their finest works at the Foothills Art Club’s Annual Art Show and Sale, set to be held on April 22.
The show and sale will be at St. Andrew’s United Church from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and will be free to the public. The showcase will also feature a draw for a free art piece by club member, Gwen Stickel.
President of the Foothills Art Club, Marty Cochrane, said this will be the club’s first in-person art showcase since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As this is their first showcase in over three years, it may be a little smaller than previous showcases, but he assures the event will still be an enjoyable experience.
“Traditionally, we have about 18 to 22 artists, and they’re allowed five pieces [of art] each,” Cochrane said. “It’s going to be an impressive show, because the room is smaller and more intimate, so It’ll look quite nice. Hopefully everyone will be please with what they see.”
With a variety of members each boasting their own creative styles and technique, different types of art with themes inspired by Cochrane and the surrounding area will be on display at the show. Whether the works depict nature or western themes depends on what the local artists draw inspiration from.
“Everyone has their own call on what they want to do,” Cochrane said. “If they want to paint fire hydrants, that’s fine. There’s no rules, and if people are open-minded, then as long as it’s well done, it’s art.”
Cochrane said it is a refreshing feeling to be able to host these in-person events after a few years of pandemic-related restrictions. In addition to giving the town’s art-lovers a chance to peruse local works, it also allows artists the chance to learn more about the art club.
“You don’t have to be an artist in an art club,” Cochrane said. “You have to have the will and the want to be an artist, that’s all.”
Cochrane views art as fluid, ever-changing, and reflecting the emotions of creators. He invites all members of the community to attend the showcase and hopes they enjoy the work created by the art club.
“That’s the beauty of art, everyone has interpretation of what art is,” Cochrane said, adding the club is made of like-minded enthusiasts who are always welcoming those who are interested in joining.
For more information on the Foothills Art Club and how to join, Cochrane asks anyone who is interested to visit foothillsartclub.com.
