"Tangible: An Exhibition of Interactive Artwork"

The Alternator Centre for Contemporary Art opens an exhibition by Kelowna artist and Curatorial Intern Laura Gourley on Friday, March 22 at 7pm. The reception welcomes Laura and her collaborative Exhibition – Tangible: An Exhibition of Interactive Artwork, on display in the Alternator Main Gallery in the Rotary Centre for the Arts.

Tangible is an interactive art exhibition showcasing the works of a collaboration of student artists dedicated to exploring the physical qualities of viewing art. It was conceived to examine the unique approach of inviting the viewer to actively participate in the looking process through the ability to physically interact with the artwork by utilizing senses that are not traditionally appropriated to the viewing of artwork, such as touch, smell, movement and auditory experiences. This method of ‘viewing’ allows the audience to gain a deeper understanding of the artwork thus a heightened appreciation for it, and it is in this process that the viewer and the artist become a collaborative force in the making of each art piece. The idea was birthed out of Gourley’s child-like frustration of being bound by barriers and social constraints in the art world, which are accompanied by a strict ‘no touch’ policy. This policy serves to create a strong distinction between ‘Art’ and its audience. This exhibition aims to break those superior notions and bridge the gap. Through this process she hopes to entice a wider audience to engage with art and bring to light the integral part the viewer plays in making art what it is.

Laura Gourley is currently in her 4th year of the BFA Program at UBC Okanagan, she has recently returned from a year abroad where she attended the prestigious Glasgow School of Art in Scotland on exchange. Laura is currently the curatorial intern at the Alternator Centre for Contemporary Art.

Tangible: An Exhibition of Interactive Artwork will be on display in the Main Gallery of the Alternator Centre for Contemporary Art from March 22, 2013 to March 29, 2013.