Upcoming Exhibitions: Bateman and Beyond

Penticton Art Gallery is set to captivate art enthusiasts with its diverse and thought-provoking exhibition schedule for the remainder of 2024. From rediscovering renowned artists to celebrating emerging talents, the gallery's upcoming showcases promise to offer a rich tapestry of artistic expression and creativity. So let's give a sneak peak at some of the best for the rest of the year shall we?

July – September 2024

Kicking off the summer season, Penticton Art Gallery presents "Unexpected Bateman," an exhibition dedicated to the legendary Canadian artist, Robert Bateman. Running from July 5th to September 14th, 2024, this retrospective invites visitors to delve into Bateman's multifaceted artistic journey spanning over nine decades. While Bateman is widely celebrated for his realistic portrayals of wildlife and nature, this exhibition aims to unveil lesser-known facets of his oeuvre, challenging preconceptions and inviting viewers to reevaluate their perceptions of his work. From his early explorations in representational art to his later forays into abstraction, "Unexpected Bateman" promises to be a journey of discovery, shedding new light on a Canadian icon.

September – November 2024

As autumn approaches, Penticton Art Gallery welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in the mesmerizing world of Tsuneko Kokubo with "Of Light Itself." Running from September 20th to November 2nd, 2024, this retrospective showcases the remarkable career of Kokubo, a prolific painter and performance artist whose work transcends boundaries and genres. Born in Steveston, BC, and raised in Japan, Kokubo's artistic journey is marked by a profound exploration of identity, belonging, and the natural world. Through vibrant paintings, performance pieces, and set designs, "Of Light Itself" invites viewers to embark on a visual and emotional odyssey, where each brushstroke serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of all things.

In the Project Room, Alexandra Bischoff's "Homesick" offers a poignant exploration of family history, memory, and belonging. Through multimedia installations and durational performances, Bischoff delves into the intricacies of colonial notions of homemaking, inviting viewers to reflect on their own inherited narratives and cultural identities. With a blend of archival materials, performance art, and personal storytelling, "Homesick" promises to resonate deeply with audiences, sparking conversations about the complexities of home and heritage in contemporary society.

November 2024 – January 2025

Closing out the year, Penticton Art Gallery presents a dynamic duo of exhibitions designed to engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds. In the Main Gallery, "Recent Donations to the Collection" offers a glimpse into the gallery's ever-growing repository of art, showcasing recent acquisitions and hidden gems that have yet to be publicly displayed. From established masters to emerging talents, this exhibition celebrates the diversity and richness of the gallery's collection, inviting visitors to discover new favorites and reacquaint themselves with old classics.

In parallel, the Young Collectors Club introduces children aged 5-12 to the joys of art collecting, empowering them to curate their own unique collections free from external influences. With a selection of 150 original works of art specially curated for young collectors, this immersive experience encourages children to explore their artistic tastes and develop a deeper appreciation for the world of art.

Additionally, the Project Room and Toni Onley Gallery will host the 18th Annual Under $500 Exhibition and Sale, showcasing affordable artworks from a diverse array of artists. From paintings to sculptures, this beloved annual event offers art lovers the opportunity to discover hidden treasures and support emerging artists while staying within budget.

As Penticton Art Gallery continues to enrich the cultural landscape of the Okanagan Valley, its upcoming exhibitions promise to inspire, provoke, and delight audiences of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a curious newcomer, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this vibrant hub of creativity and expression. ◆