Article by Charlotte Knudsen
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The Hope Arts Gallery at 349 Fort Street will present Ode to Glass by artist Patricia Denis (nee Pat Fish), featured April 1 to 29 in the Back Room Gallery.
Denis’s colourful creations are designed using a technique called ‘glass on glass,’ where stained glass is adhered to another piece of glass and finished with grout. The process begins with drawing a picture which lends itself to shapes that are possible to cut in glass. Glass selection, type of glass, and colours reflect the innovation of the artist.
Denis’s creations feature a variety of themes and techniques. The love of flowers and nature is prevalent in her work, but she also loves to create abstract and whimsical pieces. This show will also feature some of her wild and whacky birdhouses.
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Denis grew up in Hope and continues to have strong ties with the community. She attributes much of her success to the caring teachers of Hope secondary school and the life long bonds forged among the students. Frank Laurillard taught the first all-girls woodworking class in B.C., and through his tutelage, female students not only learned how to use power tools, but how to defy gender roles.
“Because of this course, I was not afraid to use power tools and went on to create willow furniture for many years,” Denis said.
Her textiles teacher, Tama Kawase, enriched students with lessons fostering creativity.
“I am thankful I was one of her students and, in her honour, I am creating a piece that incorporates textiles,” Denis said. “Although experimental, I am excited to see the outcome.”
It is evident that Denis found her true passion and purpose through art. Today, she lives in Ashcroft and the magic happens at the Willowsong Glass Studio where she finds great joy in creating glass pieces, and even greater joy when they resonate with others.
Ode to Glass is featured April 1 to 29 in the Back Room Gallery at the Hope Arts Gallery.
Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday and admission is free.
@ProgressSports
eric.welsh@hopestandard.com
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