Reflections: an Ann Swanson Gross Retrospective
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Kootenay Gallery of Art, History and Science 120 Heritage Way, Castlegar, British Columbia V1N 4M5
Ann Swanson Gross, "Hear No Evil, See No Evil, Speak No Evil," nd
clay
Reflections: an Ann Swanson Gross Retrospective.
This show comes from the Slocan Valley community where Ann spent most of her life up until she passed away in 2018. The foundation of the exhibition is a collection of works from Cindy and Richard Moser, which Cindy donated to the Gallery, prior to her own death. Valley residents Sam Simpson and Ann Harvey approached the Gallery about creating a show of Swanson Gross’s work. The two have acted as the bridge between the Slocan Valley community and the Gallery staff to bring works to the gallery from a wide variety of friends and family.
Swanson Gross’s work is deeply personal. Sometimes it reflects a somber, anguished soul. At other times, it is a celebration. The artist created two dimensional images, often large scale work with fibre-tipped water based pens. While her subjects were often friends and family, she created numerous self portraits. Her other primary artistic outlet were clay sculptures, many of rubenesque female figures. A cross section of both paintings and sculptures will be on display, alongside a portfolio of cards she had gifted friends over the years.
In lieu of an opening event, a come-and-go style Open House will be held from 5:00 – 8:00 pm on September 25. To avoid crowding, there will be no formal speeches and admittance to the Gallery will be limited to 50 people at one time. Other COVID protocol will be in place and masks are recommended. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event.