Identity Transfer at STEPAC Opens Saturday January 14, 2012

Identity Transfer opened at the St. Thomas Elgin Public this past Saturday (January 14, 2012), revealing a collage of interesting ways in which the select group of artists has chosen to portray themselves.

The works ranged from depiction of the artist’s steadfast gaze into a mirror, to works capturing distinct meaningful snapshots in time, life roles, passions or personal philosophies.

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Most of the artists were on hand, and some admitted to fears related to the process of portraying themselves for such a public forum. The exhibit will surely prompt viewers to imagine what their own self-portrait would convey.  

According to the exhibit description, “It's a rare artist that hasn’t at one time or another attempted a self-portrait. Sometimes its for the most obvious reason, that in portraying his/herself has a ready, willing and free model. At other times artists may use self-portraits to advertise their skills, practice their craft, explore some inner turmoil or stake a place in history. Whatever reason the artist might think they had for the work, the act of creation always reveals something about the creator. It’s always possible to learn a little more about the artist by reading between the brush-strokes or medium.”

Participating artists include Robin Baratta, Ben Benedict, Betty Burrell, Kit Cutting, Lisa Gerrard, Katrina Farrow Jones, Michael Hunter, Patricia Johnson, Candy McManiman, Sine Maule, Ethel Mtrovic, Sheila Nicholas, Cindi Talbot, Albert Sugerman, Josepha van den Anker and Mary Louise White.

Shots of self-portraits, with artists who attended the opening are below. To see descriptions of the works and more about the artist click here.

The exhibit continues to March 3, 2012 in the Main Gallery of the Elgin St. Thomas Public Art Centre, 301 Talbot Street, St. Thomas.