As Squamish’s population increases it is becoming a more vibrant and urban community, but that isn’t always reflected in the art or music scene in the district, according to local artist Stewart Hughes.
In an effort to bring a more contemporary mix of artists and musicians to town, Hughes has organized New Planets, a gallery event that opens Friday at The Ledge Community Coffee House. Hughes’ gallery, Versatile, which he launched last year in Vancouver, is presenting the event.
“I think Squamish really needs balancing out, in the cultural sense,” said Hughes. “I have lived here for 12 years and I am an artist myself and I have been a little bit frustrated at the lack of contemporary arts and culture.”
Squamish has so much recreation, which is great, but the arts have sometimes been sidelined, he added.
Hughes said while his gallery, Versatile, doesn’t have a brick and mortar space in Squamish yet, that is the ultimate goal.
The upcoming show will include 11 artists from Vancouver and Squamish, three local DJs and a live performer.
With the injection of so many new people who have recently moved to Squamish, Hughes is betting that they will “associate value with culture in their town.”
Artists will include Hughes himself under his artist name MaryMary, Vancouver’s Tim Barnard; Squamish’s Nathan French; painter Lani Imre; artist and illustrator Julia Iredale; colourful painter Jean Paul Langlois; artist, musician and designer Peter Ricq; Squamish artist Kim Sawula; Tokyo-influenced artist Taka Sudo; Vancouver artist Lan Yao and local artist Lauren Watson.
Opening night on Friday will start at 8 p.m. and the event will run March 24 to 31. For more information go to www.versatilegallery.com.
