Art is a mirror that reflects the vices and virtues of society. It provokes, entertains, and sometimes it serves a practical function. However, the real test for artists is whether their ideas can withstand the test of time. St. Johns and the Commonwealth of Newfoundland has a vibrant local arts scene. These artists have produced various works that reflect what real art should communicate. Here are a few local artists and some of their most notable pieces.
Gerald Squires
Gerald Squire’s spirit of the Beothuk is a life-sized bronze statue of an indigenous Canadian. This piece symbolizes the collective shame and guilt that Canadians have for the Beothuk genocide. Historical purists have a lot to say about the matter.
Mike Hickey
Mick Hickey organizes an annual community art fair called the Drag Race. This event features performance art, races, parties and even some of St. Johns drag queens. It’s full of fanfare, laughs, bruises and everything that would make your weekend great.
Grant Boland
In 1997, the Christina Parker gallery played host to Grant’s bold exhibition. Many works went on display depicting various known figures in varying states of drunkenness. One piece from this expo remains relevant to this day. Arc-angel Gabriel Takes A Drink. This piece went to show that even celestial beings can’t resist the allure of alcohol.
Kym Greeley
Kym’s styles of paintings have subtle hints of Pratt and Warhol. This means that everything she creates is a provocative statement. She also marries traditional practices and industrial technology to produce amazing landscapes.
Pam Hall
In 2000, Pam Hall initiated Rewriting the Body. This collaborative piece is still ongoing. It’s a collection of stories written by women. In just a few lines, each collaborator writes about how they feel about life, their bodies and men in society. This journal is not only provocative and emotive but also offers great fun to read.