A group of students and graduates from the Fine Arts Studio program came together to form the Studio 297 Collective and put on their first group show called Oblivion.
The show, which ran from Feb. 12 to March 3, featured portraiture from the five artists who met at the Story Arts Centre.
“The show was all about how your perspectives on things change when you’re away from home and how you reflect on the people you miss,” said Derek Obst, a second-year student who is part of the 297 Collective.
Obst had nine portraits of family members and a close friend featured in the show.
“The work in this show was very strong, it tops the list as one of the strongest group shows we’ve had,” said program coordinator David McClyment. “It was like magic.”
The Fine Arts Studio program is a two-year diploma program that combines studio classes with professional practice and development.
It’s the only fine arts program in Ontario that mentors its student in professional practice. For example, students learn how to contact galleries and market their work.
There are currently talks to have Oblivion shown at Centennial College's Progress campus this summer.
McClyment hopes his students will take their show beyond Centennial to public galleries.
“This show will be an ongoing professional opportunity for them as artists,” said McClyment.
By Ellen Samek