Abstract and landscape art on display this season at the Woodstock Art Gallery

Two new exhibitions are coming to the Woodstock Art Gallery this weekend, featuring a selection of abstract and landscape paintings.

Gathering Fictions: A Dialogue on Painting opens Saturday, Feb. 15, in the second-floor main gallery with artwork by Canadian painters Janet Jones and Michel Daigneault. The exhibition is organized by the Varley Art Gallery of Markham and curated by Anik Glaude.

Jones and Daigneault were both born in Montreal and currently teach in the visual arts department at York University in Toronto. Using similar methods like layering, patterning and collage, they create a diverse range of artwork that explores different realities, narratives and modes of perception. As peers, the artists have cultivated a relationship that thrives on debate and creating space for dialogue.

“Gathering Fictions examines the limitless possibilities of abstraction. Jones and Daigneault approach the genre with enthusiastic curiosity, and the dynamic results are full of captivating colour, pattern and symbolism. The exhibition’s title alludes to the ongoing series of conversations about art, art history and art criticism that are the foundation of a strong friendship between these two contemporary painters,” said Danielle Hoevenaars, Head of Collections.

Four paintings by the late artist John Harvey will additionally be on display in the foyer on the first floor. Harvey was an active supporter of the arts in Oxford County and participated in many juried art shows in Woodstock. A largely self-taught artist, his paintings were often inspired by summer vacations in northern Ontario. 

Both exhibitions will be highlighted at WAG’s Winter Open House on Monday, Feb. 17 from 1 – 3 p.m. The afternoon will include demonstrations, exhibition tours and talks with visiting artists. The Gallery is also holding its popular Open Studio Drop-In program in the morning, with free art activities for families and story time with the Woodstock Public.

Gallery also welcomes Interim Director/Curator

Family Day will also be Mary Reid’s last day as Director/Curator. She recently accepted a new role with the McMaster Museum of Art. Stephanie Porter will be stepping into the role of Interim Director/Curator.

Porter has been with the Woodstock Art Gallery in various roles for more than 20 years and is currently the Head of Education. Throughout her tenure, she has demonstrated a deep passion for the arts and a commitment to the community.

More information about the Gallery’s upcoming exhibitions, events and programs can be found at www.woodstockartgallery.ca.