Barrydowne College students showcase their artwork at the Open Studio

Students from Barrydowne College’s Visual Arts and Native Studies programs and Cambrian College’s Art and Design Dual Credit programs will showcase their talent in Bridging the Gap, the first annual student art exhibition, which opens to the public on Friday, June 6, 2014.

A variety of pieces will be showcased, including acrylic and watercolour paintings, clay work, graphite drawings, vinyl figures with custom paint work, traditional first nations bead work and photography. 

Bridging the Gap will be on display Friday, June 6, 2014 from 4 pm to 7 pm, Saturday, June 7, 2014 from 12 pm to 4 pm and Sunday, June 8, 2014 from 12 pm to 4 pm at the Open Studio, 93 Cedar Street, in downtown Sudbury. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

Under the guidance of Sarah Cormier and Dana Kinsella, art teachers at Barrydowne College, students have created personal pieces that express their thoughts and feelings.  In the early stages of creation, they were encouraged to push themselves to try new things.

“Spirits are running high as students work diligently to complete their artwork,” says Sarah Cormier. “They are anxious to display their works of art to their family, friends and the public. It is an exhibit that is not-to-be missed.”

Katherine Huck, Art and Design and Digital Photography professor at Cambrian College, has mentored the students in the design of the art show. Bridging the Gap is a reflection of the collaboration between Cambrian College and Barrydowne College to celebrate student success.

"Art means a lot to me,” says student Erin Winger. “It is a wonderful way to express who you are, what you feel, and what you have to say. It is meant to be shared, which is why I am excited to show my work in an art gallery."

"I am excited to be participating in an art show,” adds student Josh Henderson. “I’ve always doodled and now I have a chance to turn these doodles into art and put them into a show. I find that amazing. I can’t wait to see all of the different pieces."

The creative process and the professional presentation of artwork are important components of the visual arts curriculum. This show provides students with the opportunity to learn about credit lines, artist information cards, and the set up and take down of a professional show. 

The event will also enable students to examine, interpret and evaluate a variety of artwork. They will interact with the public and explain their artistic choices and goals, an experience usually reserved for seasoned artists. 

“This exhibit will give our students an opportunity to participate in an art display at the professional level as well as explore postsecondary education and career possibilities in the exciting field of visual arts,” says Principal Maureen McNamara.

Barrydowne College is a re-engagement school in partnership with Cambrian College.  This secondary school, within a college, supports students ages 18 to 20. 

Small class sizes and personalized curriculum help students earn credits, build social skills, and develop links to community college programs, including Dual Credits.

Students also have access to Youth Employment Services, giving them an opportunity to explore pathways to work, apprenticeship, college and university.

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Media Contact:

Maureen McNamara, Principal, Barrydowne College

Rainbow District School Board, 705-566-2302.