Photo supplied.
Zimbabwean artist Tapiwa Mapuranga was not able to travel to Canada this year but his sculpture, Together We Can Make, (above) gives us all hope for a better times ahead!
Viewing art in the great outdoors was the theme of a recent Globe & Mail article and ZimArt’s Rice Lake Gallery made the list of 11 such destinations across Canada. This local gem, now celebrating year 22, is the perfect choice for art lovers in the time of COVID. Over 300 hand-carved Zimbabwean stone sculptures are on display over three acres overlooking Rice Lake and the Northumberland hills.
“It’s going to be a different kind of season,” admits Fran Fearnley, curator and owner of ZimArt’s Rice Lake Gallery. “The artist Tapiwa Mapuranga who we had invited this year was not able to travel because of COVID – despite being vaccinated.” But like many small business owners Fearnley is finding ways to adapt.
Last year ZimArt hosted a couple of outdoor socially distanced concerts and this year an extra concert has been added. Tickets sold out fast! “We are the hosts, not the organizers,” Fearnley explains. Over the years the gallery has hosted a range of events from dance workshops to meditation walks and Fearnley is keen to expand on offerings this season. There is no charge for use of the space. Do you have an idea? Want to offer a yoga workshop or drumming circle? Get in touch with the gallery.
Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and explore the works on display over three acres. Entrance is free. No appointment is required. The gallery is open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. until Thanksgiving. KG