Kingston artists welcome back in-person events with Summer Art Show

Due to the pandemic, many art exhibitions and sales have adapted to virtual shows. However, as the restrictions are easing up, many events are happening in person.  

Glocca Morra Studios is organizing its Summer Art Show and sale featuring 15 local artists’ work, taking place on Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The studio on Highway 15 and is owned by a local artist Rhonda Evans. Evans is an artist, designer, teacher, and entrepreneur. She is originally from Newfoundland and has a family farm here in Kingston. Evans works closely with Lisa Morrissey of Dragonfly Creativity Studio, who works out of the Greenhouse Studios at Glocca Morra. 

“Now that restrictions have been lifted enough, this was an opportunity to utilize the studio space as an art show venue, allowing local artists to showcase their work and for the public to re-engage with the arts community,” said Evans. 

The studio promises a welcoming space for everyone and encourages local artists to engage in the community. Also, each art show hosted by Glocca Morra Studios offers a local charitable organization a complimentary space to educate the public on their work and collect donations. So far, the Glocca Morra studios have partnered with Kingston Animal Rescue and the Young Artist Program. 

Artists line-up for the current art show includes; Rhonda Evans Artist, Dragonfly Creativity Studio, The Garden Studio, Reclaimed Words, Rhicreations, Teaspoon Studio, Ela’s Jewellery Box, Birdgirl Arts, Grunge Silver Studio, Colburn Art, Breathing Soul Creations, Kstuff, Chaka Chikodzi, Solasta Soaps, and Maddy Thaller.

“This is my first market as a fibre artist. I started this business as a stay-at-home mom during the pandemic. I am so honoured to be included. Being able to showcase my work alongside other local creatives is honestly a dream come true,” said Rebecca Hurley of Breathing Soul Creations 

The works and mediums of these artists range from paintings, books, reclaimed wood, candles, stained glass, jewelry, various metals, stone sculpture, soaps, and more. 

Sherri Richards of Reclaimed Words said, “In-person art events, like the Summer Art Show happening tomorrow, are so exciting because the energy from people is infectious. I love getting to talk with people about their ideas for commissioned pieces and it’s always a positive experience hearing someone discover my books when they have not heard about them or seen them before. Being able to show my work in person is so important, as sharing virtually doesn’t allow for the same experience of my work.”

All COVID-19 protocols will be followed during the event, including the use of face coverings while inside the Greenhouse Studios space. Contact tracing information will be collected upon arrival. 

“Kingston has done such a fantastic job throughout the pandemic at following all protocols and precautions to keep our community safe, and this event will be no different,” said Evans. 

In addition to the art show and sale, the studio will also host live music from HoozHear?, a local band of young musicians whose “mandate is to provide a place for young musicians to come together, make and perform music, have fun, and support other younger musicians with motivation, mentoring, and as role models,” according to Glocca Morra Farms and Studios, who notes the band has “an extensive repertoire including The Lumineers, The Doors, Stevie Wonder, and more.”

And as a throwback to the Farm Market days of Glocca Morra Farms, fresh sweetcorn and raspberries will be available for purchase during the show. 

Glocca Morra began as a family farm, which has been in the family for six generations. This farm’s story has evolved significantly over the years. It is taking its next step by repurposing the space once a commercial greenhouse to become a year-round art studio, with space available for local artists to rent, work, and display their creations. 

Located at 1623 Highway 15, across the road from the historic farm itself, you’ll see the Greenhouse Studios of Glocca Morra Studios, which is easily accessible from both downtown and Highway 401. For more details, click here.