Kings art in the uncommon

BY WENDY ELLIOTT

Kings County Register

Artist Terry Drahos was walking along Gaspereau Ave. in Wolfville some time ago and stopped to admire a color-coordinated clothesline.

She thought, human beings sometimes create art in everyday life without any intention.

“If you look closely, you will find a visual sensibility in the way someone hangs laundry, or the route a footpath is worn.”

Two years ago, Drahos, Pat Farrell and Nicole Evans created a series of sculptures affectionately known as the “twig people.” These sculptures were created at almost no cost and were given to the people of Wolfville. Her new project aims to create the same sense of play between the community, its visitors and the artists.

This spring, Drahos invited Kings County artists to participate in a new public art piece by creating what she likes to call, “uncommon common art.” Eleven artists have created original art installations throughout Kings County, all of which are featured on a published map.

“It’s a kind of treasure hunt for art,” she says.

The maps, available in local outlets, cost just $5 and the proceeds will support the Alliance of Kings Artists.

Whether on private or public property, all art locations are accessible to the public.

“We invite the local community and visitors to participate in this art treasure hunt. Some installations will be easy to find, sitting by the side of the road; others may require a bit more exploration.”

Harvest Gallery owner Lynda MacDonald says the art on a map “illicits a response.

“It starts a conversation. It’s fine if you don’t like it, but you have to look at it first.”

Drahos says she got the idea about three years ago and welcomed support from fellow AKA members. TAN Coffee Roasters underwrote the printing costs.

“This is truly a community art piece,” she adds.

Artists involved include Nicole Evans, Nistal Prem de Boer, Deborah Nicholson, Ron Hayes, Candice Dunn, Bob Hainstock, David Lacey, Ulrike Walker, Eileen Boyd, Twila Robar-DeCoste and Ernest Cadegan.

Their art is located in Grand Pre, Wolfville, Canning, Scott’s Bay, Brow Mt. Rd., Hall’s Harbour, Kentville, Harbourville, Aylesford and Greenwood.

Maps are available in Wolfville at Harvest Gallery, the Acadia Art Gallery, Step Outside; and, in Grand Pre, at Domaine de Grand Pre Winery, the Evangeline Snack Bar and Motel; and at other locations throughout the Valley.