VANL-CARFAC

Dominique Hurley: VANL-CARFAC’s Member of the Month

admin — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:44:54 +0000

Photo by Cathy Chicoine

Bio:

Dominique Hurley moved to St. John’s from Saskatoon in June 2011, six months after receiving what she refers to as a Spirit Call. With her personal mission to explore and express her love of beauty and the beauty of love, she has made the most of her experience here through her art, travels, teaching, and simple living. Dominique has a Certificate of Art & Design (SK), two Certificates of Professional Photography (NY, BC), a degree in Recreology and Public Policy & Management (ON), and a Masters in Education (AB). She is a juried member of the Newfoundland & Labrador and Saskatchewan Craft Councils. Since 1988, she has had several solo exhibitions and participated in group shows and arts & craft fairs.

1. When did you first realize that you wanted to become an artist?

It’s not the kind of thing I remember making a conscious decision about. It has always been an inherent part of who I am – this desire to be creative, this fascination with colour and beauty. I remember being in a campground somewhere in Europe when I was about 7 years old. An artist was there with a spinning wheel on which you would splatter paint drops that immediately turned into spectacular designs. I was so enthralled with the process that the camp counselor paid for me to try it out. Thinking about that moment now, I can easily relive the sense of awe and elation that whole experience gave me at the time.

2. What mediums do you work in and why?

In my career as an artist, I’ve played as much with acrylic paints and mediums as with photography. My current work is often an exploration of using these together. First, I enjoy the versatility of acrylic paint – especially in its more fluid forms as they increase the mysterious flow of the creative process. Also, the array of mediums available today, particularly in the Golden Artist Colors Inc. line of professional products, enhances my exploration of textures and mixed media in my artwork. As for photography, I initially became enamoured with the process while traveling the world teaching English. It was equally effective in bringing me fully to the moment as painting was, all the while opening my eyes to the various levels of beauty present in the natural and manufactured worlds I was discovering. I believe that by incorporating some of the images from my travels into my paintings, I am both honoring and encapsulating the energy of those sacred places and the life within them.

3. How do you get ideas for your artwork?

I sometimes receive a vision of my next painting while in a meditative state, such as while walking or doing yoga. Other times, my desire to incorporate a particular photograph might start things off. More often than not, however, the final outcome is a total mystery. It evolves as I sit crossed legged on the floor with multiple canvases in front of me, often with an intention, a question, a prayer, or a feeling guiding the process. It’s almost as if the art was being created through me, in the same way energy healers talk about their work. It’s a collaborative effort between Spirit, my Self, and the art supplies in front of me. As each layer dries, it inspires the next step – often taking me far from what I may have envisioned along the way. For me, art is definitely as much about that creative process as it is about the final result. It’s about loving the mystery.

4. What other artists influence your artwork?

I’ve never been great with remembering artists’ names or particular influences during my lifelong exploration of beauty. I always say that I’ve been so blessed with a lifetime of travel and discovery that there isn’t enough storage space in my mind for all the details. I do know, however, that Jean Paul Riopelle and Jackson Pollok caught my attention in my late teens, early twenties while living in Ottawa. Both the National Gallery of Canada and the University of Ottawa had some of their work on display. I was very drawn to the freedom of expression, the texture, the depth, the colour, and non-representational nature of their work. In more recent times, the photography of Courtney Milne, especially his Pool of Possibilities collection, opened my eyes to the deep sense of spiritual expression possible through art. He brought me to Saskatoon to work with him and his wife for two years after my photography program, an experience I’ll never forget. Also while in Saskatoon, I felt very drawn to the work of Janet Williams, whose canvases are alive with joy and colour.

5. What are the ‘big’ themes in your artwork?

My art reflects the dance of Spirit in nature and within the Self, energies that illuminate, transform, move, and lead to reflection. It’s about personal growth, spiritual expression, energy work, and contemplation, springing from the exploration of my love of beauty and the beauty of love. This has led to featuring trees, spirals, dragonflies, butterflies, Buddhas, and phoenixes in my most recent work.

6. What is the greatest challenge you face as an artist working in Newfoundland and Labrador?

Having moved to Newfoundland in June 2011, I would say my biggest challenge is in getting known and finding a market for my work in order to finance and keep up with my ever-growing passion for painting. Luckily, I’ve been very fortunate in lining up several exhibitions in St. John’s, in life enhancing venues that attract a like-minded clientele (e.g. various yoga studios, The Sprout Restaurant, The Natural Health Shop). I’ve also been part of group events with various local and provincial arts organizations that have helped me network with fellow artists and art-loving crowds.

7. What is the best thing about working as an artist in this province?

Since moving here, I’ve often been told that this is a wonderful province in terms of receiving both financial and professional support in the arts. I am still an emerging artist. There is so much more I want to explore in terms of integrating photography and painting, and so access to grants and residencies will be essential. Competition is tough, but the more I try, the more I learn about myself and my art, and the better chances I’ll have at gaining such support. I look forward to that.

8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

This question evokes a sense of inner space more than that of a physical space. I see myself both exploring and expressing my creativity in the arts on a full-time basis without outside employment or financial concerns. Since visualization is an important step of manifestation, I’m very happy with that answer. Indeed, I see myself comfortably living in a space of creative fulfillment.

9. If you weren’t an artist, what would you be doing?

With my first degree in Recreology and a Masters degree in Education(TESL), I would be continuing my exploration of Canada and the world, devoting most of my time and energy to teaching and creating life-enhancing experiences. This would probably extend from teaching English as a Second Language to leading personal growth workshops.

10. If you could have one wish granted, what would it be?

My wish would be to always follow my Truth/ Guidance with ease and grace to live a fulfilled life of love, growth, and happiness.

Dominique Hurley

www.dominiquehurley.com

***Enter Now to be May’s Member of the Month!

Each month on the first Monday of the month a new member is profiled on this page. This is a random draw from entries received, and all entries stay in the pot until they are drawn. Each entry consists of a short bio, including web link if desired, a picture of you, and the answers to the 10 Questions listed above. Entries are to be emailed to vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com before the end of the month to qualify for the next month’s draw.

VANL-CARFAC Announcement: Seeking Nominations for 2012 Excellence in Visual Arts Awards!

admin — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 17:01:37 +0000

VANL-CARFAC Announcement: Seeking Nominations for 2012 Excellence in Visual Arts Awards!

All artists in the province are encouraged to apply for the 2012 Excellence in Visual Arts Awards. There are five categories for this year’s ceremony, including the Long Haul (for lifetime achievement) sponsored by The Leyton Gallery, the Large Year Award (for an artist who has had an exceptional year) sponsored by Sheppard Case Architects Inc., the Emerging Artist Award sponsored by Grenfell Campus, Memorial University, the Kippy Goins Award, which recognizes an individual or organization who has helped the growth of the sector, and the Critical Eye Award, which recognizes a visual arts writer for an exceptional piece of writing on an NL artist in any print or online publication worldwide.

Cash prizes of $1000 are attached to the awards, except the Kippy Goins, whose recipient receives an original artwork, this year by artist Michael Pittman

The deadline is fast approaching for the seventh annual Excellence in Visual Arts Awards.

Applications must be received or postmarked by 5 pm, April 1st. Application forms and full rules can be found here.

As the only awards program dedicated to celebrating the achievements of this province’s visual artists, the EVA Awards have become an exciting part of the annual cultural activities in this province. With previous winners from Grand Falls-Windsor, St. John’s, Corner Brook, Pouch Cove and Robinsons, this awards program recognizes excellence province-wide.

For more information about the EVA Awards, please contact Katie Butler Major or Dave Andrews at 1-877-738-7303 or vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com.

Mary Pratt Returns as Patron, Excellence in Visual Art Awards

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:46:10 +0000

Mary Pratt Returns as Patron, Excellence in Visual Art Awards

Deadline for EVA nominations: April 1, 2012

Well-known artist Mary Pratt is returning as the Patron of the Excellence in Visual Arts Awards (EVAs), which acknowledge the achievements of this province’s visual artists.

“It is easy to award prizes in sports. The winner is usually the first to cross the finish line, or the team that gets the most points. An athletic achievement is rewarded not only with medals and money. It is rewarded with popularity”, says Pratt. “We also have heroes in the movies and on stage. Almost none of this is enjoyed by visual artists. How valued is a prize given to a visual artist? Working for years in the proverbial garret – to be finally noticed? It is as much a blessing as a prize!”

Ms Pratt was the winner of the inaugural Long Haul Award for lifetime achievement in 2006, one of five EVA Awards, which will again be presented this spring.

All artists in the province are encouraged to apply for these awards. In addition to the Long Haul, categories are the Large Year Award (for an artist who has had an exceptional year), the Emerging Artist Award, the Kippy Goins Award, which recognizes an individual or organization who has helped the growth of the sector, and the Critical Eye Award which recognizes a visual arts writer for an exceptional piece of writing on an NL artist in any print or online publication worldwide.

Cash prizes of $1000 are attached to the awards, except the Kippy Goins, whose recipient receives an original artwork, this year by artist Michael Pittman.

The deadline is fast approaching for the seventh annual Excellence in Visual Arts Awards. Applications must be received or postmarked by 5 pm, April 1st. Application forms and full rules can be found here.

For more information about the EVA Awards, and to arrange interviews, please contact Dave Andrews, Executive Director at 1-877-738-7303 or vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com.

VANL-CARFAC’s Professional Development Workshops Series Returns to Corner Brook January 21 and 22, 2012

admin — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 18:34:18 +0000

Visual Artists Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to announce that we are bringing the newest installment of our Professional Development Workshops Series back to Corner Brook with two workshops for visual artists. Facilitated by Andrew Draskoy, these sessions will be a combination of presentation and hands-on workshop.

The workshops:

Artists’ Websites: A foundation in designing your own artists ’website, including an overview of different formats for artists’ sites and different frameworks with which to create your site, how to plan and organize your content, tips on selling your work on-line, ways to get your website noticed, and more.

Getting the Word Out: Publicity and Media for Artists: This workshop will help you to get the word out about your work. Learn about how to write a press release, how to pitch an article, how to properly document your work, about using Facebook, Twitter and other new media to help boost your profile, and more.

Artists’ Websites will take place on Saturday, January 21st noon – 3 pm, and Getting the Word Out: Publicity and Media will follow on Sunday, January 22^nd, noon – 3 pm. Both workshops will take place in room FA223 on the Grenfell Campus

Each workshop is $20 for members/$10 for student members, or $35/$15 for both workshops.

Non-members rates are $70 for one workshop/$85 for both, $25/$30 for students (includes 1-year membership in VANL-CARFAC).

Registration is limited so sign up quickly! Pre-register to save your spot in the workshop by using our secure Paypal links below or by contacting the VANL-CARFAC office at vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com, or1 (877) 738-7303 for more information.

*Both of these workshops are supported by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

Professional Development Workshops Cancelled in Grand Falls-Windsor this weekend

admin — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 19:07:18 +0000

Important Notice:

Due to unforeseen circumstances the Professional Development Workshops scheduled for this weekend (Dec. 10th and the 11th) in Grand Falls-Windsor have been cancelled. We apologize for the short notice and for any inconvenience.

For more information:
vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com
1 (877) 738-7303
www.vanl-carfac.com

Commision of Artworks, Kippy Goins Award (The EVA Awards)

admin — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 19:31:12 +0000

Deadline: October 21, 2011

Description:

VANL-CARFAC is looking to engage an artist to produce a series of 3 original works or a series of three (3) original fine art multiples (includes fine art prints, castings, photographs, etc.) for the purpose of giving a gift annually to one Kippy Goins Award winner. This award is one of five awards to be presented annually as part of the EVA Awards (Excellence in Visual Art Awards). The commissioned works will be given each year for the next three years of the EVA Awards program. Offset reproductions will not be considered.

Eligibility:

Artists submitting proposals must be paid-up members of VANL-CARFAC. Individuals may become members at the time of submission. Contact the VANL-CARFAC office for details.

Evaluation:

1. The artwork(s) must take into account the concept or purpose behind the award. The award, so named for the small pieces of wood one throws on a fire to “keep it going”, is meant to honour an individual, group or organization whose efforts have helped to sustain and build the visual arts sector.

2. The artworks must be small in scale. As a rough guideline for applicants, we suggest that you keep proposed works within range of the following measurements:

· two-dimensional and framed works, approx. 11” x 17”

· three-dimensional works, approx. 1 ft. sq.

3. The visual artists currently sitting on the VANL-CARFAC EVA Committee will serve as the selection committee to evaluate all proposals and select the artist for this commission.

Submissions:

Submissions can be made electronically via email to vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com (with ‘Kippy Goins Artwork submission’ in the subject line), or mailed or delivered by hand to VANL-CARFAC, 59 Duckworth St., St. John’s NL, A1C 1E6. All submissions must include the following materials:

· a written project description, no more than one (1) page in length, stating visual art medium, materials, approximate size and concept of the proposed final artworks.

· a sketch or some form of visual representation of the concept

· the artist’s CV

· up to 10 images, saved as JPEGs, on a PC-compatible CDR or sent via email, of past work (Original artwork will not be accepted.) This should be accompanied by a numbered image list with image title, size and medium, and the JPEG titles should include the artist name and image number (i.e. Smith_01).

Selection of Artist: November 30^th, 2011

Final Project Delivery Date: April 6^th, 2012

Fee: Artist fee of $1,500.00 (firm) to be paid for the group of three (3) completed artworks, payable once the artworks have been delivered. Any shipping costs are the responsibility of the artist.

Please note that VANL-CARFAC retains the right to photograph the artworks in the context of the EVA Awards

Ceremony, for the purposes of display in own website, newsletter and other organization materials, including newspaper

advertisements congratulating the winner of the award. The artist will be credited in all instances where the image may

appear. We will not sell or licence images of the artworks for use by any other organization.

For more information about the EVA Awards program, you can view program information online at www.vanl-carfac.comor contact the VANL-CARFAC office by phone at 1-877-738-7303 or email, at vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com.

Job Opportunity: VANL-CARFAC Sponsorship Coordinator (NL)

admin — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 18:54:40 +0000

VANL-CARFAC seeks to engage a professional with project management and fundraising experience acquired largely through working in the cultural fields.

Project: Excellence in Visual Arts (EVA) Awards

Title: Sponsorship Coordinator, EVA Awards (SC)

Description: The SC will create a comprehensive sponsorship solicitation strategy including a database of contacts and a timeline for delivery of funds. The SC will work in conjunction with the EVA Committee to ensure that all appropriate businesses and individuals are included in this database. The SC will work independently to deliver the sponsorship target amounts, and must have their own workspace from which to provide the service. VANL-CARFAC will provide the SC with all necessary background information on the organization and the EVA Awards, as well as a breakdown of sponsorship categories and sponsor packages to be distributed to key candidates. The Board of Directors and EVA Committee may also serve as primary contact for key sponsors with whom they have a personal relationship.

All work will be performed under the direction of the Board of Directors but under the direct supervision of the EVA Awards Committee and Executive Director.

Qualifications: Applicants must hold a degree from a recognized post-secondary institution, have a minimum of 2 years work experience in the cultural or fundraising sector, or an appropriate combination of education and work experience. Applicants must also have;

§ Demonstrated knowledge of the cultural sector in the province.

§ Demonstrated ability to work under a volunteer board or committee.

§ Effective oral and written communication skills.

§ Demonstrated experience in fundraising.

§ Strong organizational skills and the ability to work with a high level of independence; ability to balance competing priorities and exercise good judgment.

Computer skills, time management skills and a positive attitude are essential.

Evaluation: Applicants must submit a cover letter, an up-to-date resume and three professional references. Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted by the Hiring Committee .

Project Timeline: Hours of work are to be determined by the SC according to the needs of the sponsorship campaign. Candidate must have a flexible work schedule.

Start Date: September 21, 2011

End Date: May 31, 2012

Resources: Access to all VANL-CARFAC informational resources. As a contract worker, the SC will be expected to have access to her/his own workspace, phone, computer, internet and email access.

Target: The SC is expected to raise no less than $9000 (including program ad sales), with a target amount of $13000 to be raised. Some in-kind sponsorships may be considered to count toward the total amount raised but must be cleared in advance with the EVA Committee.

Expenses: Contract awarding lump sum/professional fees @ $3000, one third ($1000) payable upon signing of contract, one third ($1000) payable upon receipt of the SC’s sponsor contact database including responses from potential sponsors to the first wave of approaches, to be received by the EVA Committee no later than December 1, 2011, and one third ($1000) payable upon receipt of the SC’s final report following the 2012 EVA Awards, end of May, 2012. Incentive will be offered for exceeding the target amount.

Deadline: All applications should be received no later than 5 pm, September 14, 2011. Only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

Apply to: vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com, with Sponsorship Coordinator Application in the subject line.

For more information on the EVA Awards program, sponsorship categories and past sponsors of the awards, see the EVA Awards page of www.vanl-carfac.com

Call for Applications: Workshop Coordinator and Facilitator

admin — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 13:07:42 +0000

Visual Artists Newfoundland and Labrador is seeking applications for the position of Workshop Creator and Facilitator.

Title: Workshop Creator and Facilitator
Contract Position
Contract fee: $7950 ($1650 for the creation of the workshops, and $600 for each workshop delivery session). Travel, accommodations and per diem will also be provided.

The Workshop Creator and Facilitator (WCF) would be responsible for the creation and facilitation of two workshops: Designing an Artists’ Website, and Getting the Word Out: Media and Publicity. These activities would include:

Research and development of content for each workshop topic, including a Powerpoint presentation, handout materials, and hands-on participation components;

Working with the Finance and Planning committee as content advisors and editors to ensure that each workshop meets the needs of the membership and is professionally presented;

Working from own office space independent of VANL-CARFAC;

Facilitation of both workshops, which will include travel to 5 locations across the province over 5 different weekends;

Transportation of materials and equipment to each location as needed;

Development of a feedback questionnaire to be collected from all participants;

Collection and recording of workshop fees paid by participants;

Creation of a comprehensive final report detailing the outcome of the workshops including attendance and participant feedback;

VANL is responsible for publicity and for booking any travel, accommodations and venues.

The successful Candidate will:

· Have knowledge of and develop structure and content for each of the following workshop topics: Artists’ Websites and Media and Publicity. Artists’ Websites should provide a foundation in designing an artists’ website, including an overview of different formats for artists’ sites and different programs and free online tools with which to create sites, tips on setting up online stores for selling work, ways to get websites noticed, and more. Participants should have a chance to work together to create a simple website in the second part of the session. Getting the Word Out: Media and Publicity: This workshop should teach participants how to best get the word out about their work, including how to write a press release, how to pitch an article, how to properly document work, using Facebook, Twitter and other new media to help boost profile, and more. Participants should have the opportunity to write and critique a press release or other media materials in a group setting in the second part of the session. Each workshop should be between 3 and 4 hours in length and should include a powerpoint component, a hands-on component for the group, and handout/worksheet materials.

· Develop all content for the workshops, incorporating feedback from the Executive Director and Finance and Planning committee to ensure the workshops meet the organization’s needs;

· Work independently from their own office space;

· Maintain appropriate records;

· Have knowledge of VANL-CARFAC and its mandate and programs;

· Work with VANL-CARFAC’s permanent staff and board of directors as required;

· Plan own timeline and adhere to this timeline;

· Demonstrate strong interpersonal, presentation, communication and organizational skills;

· Have experience teaching or facilitating related workshops or courses.

Closing Date: August 31, 2011 at 5 pm.

Interested individuals should apply by submitting a resume and cover letter to the following e-mail address: vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com. Please put ‘Workshop Facilitator Application’ in the subject heading of the email.

Important Notice: VANL’s Professional Development Workshops in Grand Falls-Windsor cancelled for this weekend

admin — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 18:45:05 +0000

Please note that the VANL-CARFAC Professional Development Workshops–Artists’ Websites, and Getting the Word Out: Publicity and Media for Artists–that were scheduled to take place this weekend in the Gordon Pinsent Centre at the ArtEX festival in Grand Falls-Windsor have been cancelled. We apologize for the short notice and for any inconvenience.

Both workshops will be re-scheduled for Grand Falls-Windsor at a later date. Also, the dates for Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Stephenville, Corner Brook and St. John’s will be announced in the very near future, so please keep an eye out!

If you have any questions, contact Dave Andrews at vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com, or 1 (877) 738-7303 for more information.

Both of these workshops are supported by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

Winners announced for the 2011 EVA Awards

admin — Sat, 28 May 2011 19:26:47 +0000

ST. JOHN’S NL: The sixth annual Excellence in Visual Arts Awards took place on May 27^th at the Rooms, St. John’s, Newfoundland. The EVA Awards are the only awards program celebrating the work of the visual artists of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Large Year Award celebrates a visual artist who has enjoyed an exceptional year, with at least one exhibition and critical recognition. The Large Year Award 2011 went to Veselina Tomova, an artist who works in painting, printmaking, design and pottery from her studio in the Battery, St. John’s.

The Emerging Artist Award honours the promising start made by an emerging visual artist in the early stages of their career. The Emerging Artist Award 2011 went to St. John’s artist Allen Walbourne, whose work includes installation, painting and printmaking. Sponsored in 2011 by Grenfell Campus, Memorial University.

The Kippy Goins Award – so named for the small pieces of wood one throws on a fire to “keep it going” – thanks an individual or organization whose efforts have helped to sustain and build the visual arts sector. The Kippy Goins Award went to Angela Antle, artist, active arts community member and promoter of all artists in this province through her position as long-time host of the popular Weekend Arts Magazine on CBC Radio.

Painter, printmaker and sculptor Gerald Squires was the winner of The Long Haul Award, which recognizes a substantial contribution to the visual culture of Newfoundland and Labrador by a senior artist. Gerald’s work is in many public and private collections and have shown in solo exhibitions across Canada. Among other accolades, he is a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Art and the Order of Canada. The Long Haul Award 2011 was sponsored by The Leyton Gallery of Fine Art.

A new award for critical art writing, the Critical Eye Award, celebrates the best piece of critical writing about an NL artist in any print or online publication worldwide. The winner of the first Critical Eye Award is Gloria Hickey, a curator and art writer who won for her piece on Jason Holley’s work in Fusion Magazine.

For more information or to arrange interviews, contact Program Coordinator Dave Andrews at vanl-carfac@nf.aibn.com or 709-738-7303.

The EVA Awards are a Visual Artists Newfoundland and Labrador initiative.