Arts observed here and there

We love seeing art pop up on our everyday walks. Why do we see this kind of art encouraged (and thriving!) in only some places? The best-of-the-best so far on our travels has been in Porto, Portugal – with amazing art everywhere we went – and in Funchal on the Madeira Islands (also Portugal) – with its artfully painted doors. But, hey, we’re now in staid Victoria on Vancouver Island in Canada. Our expectations were pretty much “zero” for seeing random art as we walked through a neighborhood of mostly Victorian houses.

We were confused when we heard piano music as we strolled along the coast at Cattle Point. Then we saw the piano. The arts are alive in this part of the world!”

The neighborhood was all Victorian, but the funky lizard on the gate looked perfectly placed to us.

A nearby window brought a smile to our faces with “Summer. Ah…”

We saw the painted pole some distance ahead, and, as we approached, it was as if we were on a ship at sea, coming upon a small island.

Utility poles in Victoria are usually blocking part of the sidewalk. The lovely painted pole safely guided us past.

We were ready to post this blog when an invitation appeared in our email inbox. So, we eagerly headed up to an art opening for “ABOUT FACE, a group ‘selfie’ exhibition.”

The Martin Batchelor Gallery was overflowing with people when we arrived. With some effort and patience, we were able to see almost all the ‘selfies’ before we ran into our friends.

Our invitation was from Brian Grison, who posed in front of his portrait, completed when he was 17 years old.

A favorite work, by artist Barry Herring, hung nearby.

So, we’re happy to report that – aside from galleries – it is possible to observe art on the street in Victoria. You may need to look a bit harder, but the search makes the finding that much more rewarding.

 

August 2015