Youth encouraged to get artistic: Competition features 1812-related artwork

NIAGARA THIS WEEK
By MELINDA CHEEVERS
February 6, 2012


Students between Grades 7 and 12 are being encouraged to get create 1812 related pieces of art.

The Niagara Pumphouse Visual Art Centre and the Niagara Historical Museum in Niagara-on-the-Lake are teaming up to put on an 1812 Youth Art Competition. The organizations have put out a call to students, teachers and would-be artists to submit original works of art that celebrate the Bicentennial of the War of 1812.

Project coordinator Barbara Worthy said this a chance for youth to get involved in the bicentennial commemorations and to learn about the history that played out on their back door steps.

“We wanted to make sure youth have something fun to work on, something they could get into that relates to the bicentennial,” said Worthy about the competition, noting that many students don’t study the War of 1812 in high school. “They usually study it in elementary school, we’re hoping this will be brought into the high schools. It’s a way to bring local history back into the classroom.”

Students can submit their original art through four different categories: painting/drawing, 3D models, digital art and photography.

 

 “The War of 1812 presents an infinite scope for subject material,” Worthy explained. “Topics can include military and domestic life; landscape art or portraiture; depictions of military leaders or great First Nations warriors; recreating entire battle scenes digitally; or recreating 1812 war propaganda.”

All submissions must, in some way, relate to the War of 1812. Worthy said group efforts or entire class projects will be welcomed as well. While they’re hoping to get classes and entire schools involved, she said students are welcome to submit art work on their own.

Schools or teachers who are interested in having someone from the Art Centre come in to speak about the competition can contact Worthy who will make the arrangements. 

A jury of judges — consisting of Cosmo Condina, Lorraine Joyner, Peter Rand, Peter Vietgen, and Susan Wintrop ­ — will be making selections based on originality, skill, technique, overall presentation, and interpretation. Those selected will be on display in a month-long exhibition at the Niagara Pumphouse Art Centre. Worthy said they are hoping to turn it into a travelling art show, but have yet to confirm other venues.

The Niagara Historical Museum will be offering historical walks, leaving the Castlereagh Street museum and heading through the Old Town. Worthy said it will be making stops at the art centre and people will get the opportunity to peruse the artwork on display.
The deadline for entries is May 1, 2012 and artworks is to be delivered between May 15 and 31, 2012.

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Entries must be clearly labeled and can be delivered in person to The Niagara Pumphouse Art Centre, 247 Ricardo St. in Niagara-on-the-Lake, between 1 and 4 p.m. Monday to Sunday.