Sometimes a group exhibition epitomizes synergy. When artists of a similar high calibre and with diverse techniques and materials band together, the result can be a joy for all concerned. The Mix artists hold each other to high standards and inspire, critique, and encourage each other. Together they bring a top-quality summer show to the Sunshine Coast.
Charly Mithrush, Lore Schmidts, and Donna Stewart, together with guest artist Allan O’Meara, are presenting a fantastic show August 12-14 at the Seaside Centre in Sechelt. You will want to take time to linger in front of these works. A great gallery experience is like a good meal; you will get a variety of tastes and sensations. Lore Schmidts’ exuberant, colourful abstracts will stimulate and enervate. Charly Mithrush’s encaustic work incorporates found materials, and her nature images of water and sea will soothe your spirit. Donna Stewart’s sophisticated use of texture and colour leans toward 3-D and the sculptural and will have you thinking about possibilities. Allan O’Meara’s abstract acrylic work will delight you with its layers and complexity.
Schmidts explains the group’s commitment to diversity, experimentation, and mixed media: “We call ourselves The Mix because we all work in a variety of alternative materials to create our artworks. We are all very experimental.” The group aims for “inventive and creative style, themes, and visual freshness.”
Studying these works closely, the viewer is reminded that, in skilled hands, almost anything can be used to make art. Some examples are: dyed tissue, cheesecloth, weld bond, sand, collage, paint, encaustic, gauze, tree bark, stamps, stencils, rusty metal, netting, casting material, and concrete.
The Mix artists like to feature a guest at their annual exhibitions, and Allan O’Meara could not be more thrilled: “I’m so honoured, humbled, and excited to be this year’s guest artist at The Mix. These three talented individuals have generously given their time and wisdom to me as I’ve launched my artistic journey over the last three years. I’ve admired their work for more than seven years and have been inspired by them to experiment and try new techniques.”
While inspiring each other to push boundaries of expression and materials, the group remains mindful of, and generous to, their viewers: “We will have our Wall of Small again, paired with a shop where we provide affordable items for those who wish to bring home something beautiful and meaningful. We enjoy talking about our work and our process. We encourage everyone to come and meet us. We will be in-house and on hand throughout the three-day show.”
The Mix is at the Sechelt Seaside Centre, 5790 Teredo Street from August 12 to 14, 2022.
