Hanging Around in Academy's Art Scene
Hanging an original piece of art on your wall serves many more purposes than the practicality of filling an empty space. "Art can replace a window. You can escape into art, in addition to being a decorative object," exclaims Jenny Tasker, owner of Woodlands Gallery. "Art is different for everyone. A piece can remind you of a place you used to live, a past vacation, or other life experiences."
When you first walk into the gallery, your emotional response can catch you off guard. The gallery itself is segmented into smaller spaces to create themes and a good flow. Everywhere you turn art hangs, all of which exuding different emotional responses. "Bright, bold, vibrant colours that are great for neutral decor," describes Tasker on the gallery's focus.
Determining what piece, or pieces are going to work in your space, may initially seem a bit overwhelming. When we sat down with Tasker, we wanted to know her top tips when shopping for original art. "To begin with, love it," exclaims Tasker. The gallery at any given time boasts a collection of 30 artists. Each with their own style and viewpoint allows for an almost guaranteed 'love-it factor.'
Secondly, "buying from an established gallery will help ensure that the artwork was created by a professional artist," explains Tasker. The object here is knowing that it will hold its value; knowing there is price consistency from year to year; there will be a consistent series of paintings from the artist to build your collection; and it will help to guarantee style and price.
Next, depending on your need, Tasker doesn't recommend buying art for you entire home at one time. "Pick a room or start with a single piece and build on it." Committing to an artist or a style on a large scale is not always recommended.
"Don't focus on a specific spot. Keep it open. Don't stress to fill a specific need," says Tasker. If you are too focussed you are likely to miss the treasure that is hanging right in front of you.
Research! "Look around. Get a sense of what you like. Our website posts every single piece of art that we have for sale," explains Tasker. The artwork on display in the gallery is constantly changing, but only shows a small percentage of what's available from the artists.
And finally, once you believe you've found that perfect piece, take it home for a trial period. "We offer this service to customers who want to see it in their environment before they buy," says Tasker.
Celebrating a decade of matching people and beautiful art, Tasker loves running a gallery in the BIZ. "Being located in the Academy Road BIZ ensures that the area holds up to the ideas of what boutique customers expect of their shopping district and what merchants offer their customers."
Woodlands Gallery represents over 30 Canadian artists, primarily in the painting medium, as well as glass, ceramics and jewelry. Virtually all of the artwork Woodlands Gallery carries is exclusive to the gallery in Winnipeg. Many artists are nationally recognized and represented.
Plan to attend the gallery's upcoming show featuring artists Marcel Côté, Mélan & Betty Suprowich on April 15th. Check out the gallery's website for examples of the featured art that could be hanging in your home.
Woodlands Gallery is located at 535 Academy Road, 947-0700, www.woodlandsgallery.com
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