Willy Carleton: The Changing Face of the Catholic Church, Portage & District Arts Centre Art Gallery, Portage la Prairie, to April 2, 2016

February 23 to April 2, 2016

The Changing Face of the Catholic Church by Willy Carleton.

Opening Reception and Artist Talk; 2:00pm Sunday, February 28

“The Changing Face of the Catholic Church” is a multi-media Installation Exhibition by Willy Carleton. Willy is a visual artist living in the Winnipeg area. She was born in the Netherlands and immigrated to Canada with her family when she was a young girl. She attended the University of Manitoba and worked as a social worker until she retired. After which she went back to university and completed her Bachelor of Fines Arts Honors with focus on Fibre Arts in 2010. In her art practice she focuses on relationships, both personal and interpersonal with social institutions and nature.

This exhibition is conceptual and considers the evolution of the Church’s role both positive and negative and its future in a contemporary society. This work is particularly relevant considering the recent findings of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the appointment of Pope Francis. The exhibit is divided into three parts.

The first stage, representing the wealth of the Church, is called “The Power and the Glory” and highlights the influence of the Church during the Middle Ages and onward until the early twentieth century.

The second period in the history of the Church became a time of shame for many religious organizations but the media has especially highlighted the Catholic Church. “The Fall From Grace” stage is presented from both a personal and societal perspective, reflecting the Church as seen through the eyes of an abused child.

The final stage “What About The Future”, suggests hope and potential future for the Church.

Please join us for the opening reception and artist talk on Sunday, February 28 at 2:00pm

Sponsored by: Portage Consumers Co-op

Open Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00am to 5:00pm Closed the Saturday of Long Weekends.