While stories are most often told through oral tradition or written form, they have also been “told” visually for thousands of years. Some of the oldest examples of art tell the stories of heroes, gods and legends of the past.
Here in Alberta petroglyphs have served for generations as a means of communication and storytelling of indigenous people. Storytelling is central to nearly every culture and can bridge language, time and generational divides.
Storytellers, the latest exhibition in the Borealis Gallery, comprises 25 individual artworks from the Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) collection, each of which tells a complete story. The exhibition explores moments in time, relationships, action and story.
“Throughout history storytellers have found imaginative ways to share their ideas,” said the Honourable Robert E. Wanner, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta. “The new exhibition at the Borealis Gallery offers visitors the chance to explore contemporary artworks that use the power of visual images to ignite imaginations and evoke emotions.”
Storytellers showcases Alberta artists and involves a number of different perspectives, media and approaches to Albertan identity. The exhibition will run from December 14, 2016, to February 5, 2017. Visitors will explore the idea of storytelling through contemporary artworks which embody the traditional literary elements of setting, character, point of view and action. The exhibition focuses on contemporary Alberta artists who embody a narrative in visual form.
Alberta Foundation for the Arts
The Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) collection features more than 1,700 Alberta artists, many of whom are historically important figures in the advancement and growth of the visual arts in Alberta.
Borealis Gallery
The Borealis Gallery is one of four dynamic spaces featured in the Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre. It is located on the main floor of the Edmonton Federal Building, just north of the Alberta Legislature at 9820 – 107 Street.
As with all programming offered by the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, this exhibition is open to the public and is free and nonticketed. Groups of 10 or more are asked to contact the visitor reservation line at 780.427.7362 to make arrangements.
The Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre is open for all to discover, family friendly, free, educational and nonpartisan.
For information on the exhibit and hours of operation please visit: http://www.assembly.ab.ca//