The McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Kleinburg was lucky enough to be the choice of location for the first SONSI meeting of 2011. A select few members in addition to some of our new members took part of Sunday the 20th to wander and discuss the surprisingly varied galleries. A little browsing through the collection’s website will tell you that they have a large collection of Canadian art, namely by, The Group of Seven, Inuit and First Nations artists. However, members were presented with three further exhibits.
The first, and perhaps the most surprising was a very large and comprehensive exhibit devoted to Marilyn Monroe. An exhibit comprising of many photographs, sculpture and artistic representations, which is on its last stop in Canada after an international tour. The second, and perhaps most relevant to SONSI was a gallery full of works by Ontario artist, George McLean. The exhibit, entitled “The Living Landscape” showcased many paintings and a few very fine sketches of landscapes and animals in Ontario. Members enjoyed some lively discussion on the pieces, and some also learnt about casein (a tempera paint) used by the artist. Norman Rockwell and the present day photographer, Kevin Rivoli were the subjects of the third exhibition. The project, by Kevin Rivoli, interestingly juxtaposes his everyday life photographs with some of Norman Rockwell’s most popular pieces.
This casual and relaxing meeting was not only an excellent chance to browse some intriguing and varied art, but also a wonderful (and unique) chance to discuss what was on show with fellow SONSI members.