Visual Arts graduates exhibit their works

From April 24 to 29, graduating students from the visual arts Bachelor of Fine Arts program present this year’s annual exhibition, Praxis.

Inspired by praxis as embodying research and knowledge in the production of a work of art, Praxis—the exhibit—aims to strengthen the dialogue between art and academia to the benefit of both the discipline and the artists themselves.

The exhibition features works from 36 talented artists. The students were responsible for organizing the event, from planning to promotion, and raised over $7,000 during the past year to fund the project. This event is also an opportunity to showcase emerging talent to both the art and University communities.

“This graduating class is especially strong because the students work successfully in a variety of mediums. Over the past four years, our development as artists has been tremendous, and that pushes all of us to work even harder. There’s a real sense of camaraderie within the program, a relationship somewhat like a family,” says Mike Ashley, a graduating student and the exhibition project manager.

Each year, the Visual Arts Building undergoes a complete makeover in preparation for the exhibition. Furniture is removed from the classrooms; sinks, storage areas and lockers are hidden from view and walls are built up while others are given a fresh coat of paint.

“Organizing this event was definitely a challenge at times, but I feel comfortable saying we worked as hard as possible and that this show will be even better than the last!”

“The unique thing about the University of Ottawa’s visual arts program is that we are very community-based, and we strive to maintain a strong sense of community as artists, both in and out of school. We work together to support each other’s academic and extracurricular artistic endeavours,” says Taylor Norris, head of publicity and marketing for the event and also one of the artists.

Praxis runs from April 24 to 29, 2012, at the Visual Arts Building (100 Laurier Avenue East). Doors are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily. The vernissage takes place on Friday, April 27, at 7 p.m. (Room 320).

Admission is free. For details, please visit the Praxis website.


Text: Robert Henri
Photo: Sarah Tue-Fee
Published: April 2012