September 9, 2021

Faculty from Medicine Hat College’s (MHC) Art & Design program have selected pieces from past and current students to showcase at the Best of Last(s) art exhibition in the One on One Gallery during the month of September.

The show is a diverse mix of work ranging from paintings, drawings and sculpture to design/identity, animation and portraits.

Ian Richmond, coordinator and instructor for the applied degree, says that the exhibition is a momentous occasion for the art community, including the learners and instructors.

“Our students have been thriving during exceptionally difficult circumstances, so to be able to have a physical show and celebrate their work is an exciting time. I hope people leave inspired and reassured that the future of our society – our learners – are incredibly driven, courageous, adaptable and talented.”

Amongst the works featured are two pieces entitled Habitat and Colours, by Chelsea DuGray, a current student.

Habitat is inspired by the moss-covered, towering forests of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Through paper mache, DuGray showcases the natural ecosystem, highlighting that even the fallen trees, left to decay, still provide food, shelter and life for plants, animals and insects. In Colours, the student draws inspiration from the classical busts of Roman emperors, emulating the serious, masculine qualities that were idealized in the classical portraits of leadership.

By attending art shows, and getting advice, encouragement and critiques from her instructors, DuGray grew in her confidence and abilities as an artist.

“I put a lot of time and energy into my projects, so it’s very rewarding to be recognized,” says DuGray “Everyone made such amazing pieces; I hope this year’s show reminds us to be proud of what we’ve accomplished. We have all persevered, learned a lot and created something to be proud of.”

Sierra Zukowski, an alum from the program, was honoured to be featured in this year’s show. With a few pieces in the exhibition, she explains that although each is very different in nature they all use available materials in a unique way to showcase clever design and highlight her creative problem solving.

“I hope that people are inspired by the work in the exhibition, especially new students just starting the program. It may be a kick-start towards creating their own amazing work,” says Zukowski. “I also hope that this show motivates people to help foster the arts community by coming to gallery openings and supporting local artists and designers. We have a lot of artistic talent here.”

When asked how shows like these helped Zukowski prepare for her career, the artist mentions that her current role with the Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) Travelling Exhibition Program - TREX Southeast exemplifies a blend of art and design perfectly.

“As a graphic designer I do marketing and promotions for events and exhibitions, design publications and photograph installations. I also get to do hands-on work like framing and installing artwork and outfitting crates so that exhibitions can travel across the province. I often meet local artists and I’m starting to work with some to develop exhibitions. I use the skills I learned in the Art & Design program every day – I’ll be forever grateful for my experience at MHC.”

The One on One Gallery is open to the public Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., there is no cost to attend. A reception will be hosted on Sept. 9 at 4:30 p.m. Attendees are asked to wear a mask and practice safe COVID-19 practices.

For more information on this exhibition check out @ARTDESIGNMHC on Instagram, or follow VASSMHC on Facebook/Instagram.

If you are interested in learning more about the Art & Design diploma at MHC, visit www.mhc.ab.ca/artanddesign.