Algonquin Art Centre presents “The Canadian Shield”
Every year, the Algonquin Art Centre organizes a new art exhibition that explores environmental themes through the perspective of Canada’s leading landscape and wildlife artists. Building on the success of last year’s exhibit, “Water”, the Art Centre has developed their 2013 show by turning to one of Canada’s most significant geological formations –
The Canadian Shield.
“When you look out at all the rocky shorelines and pine clad cliffs in Algonquin Park,” says show organizer Joel Irwin, “you’re really looking back in time, far back in time. In fact, the rocks that make up the foundation of Algonquin are among the oldest in the world and are part of the ancient geological core of the continent – The Canadian Shield.”
The Canadian Shield is a vast expanse of ancient rock, stretching from the Arctic Islands in the North to Minnesota in the South, and from the Coast of Labrador in the East all the way to Great Slave Lake in the West. It was formed over 4 billion years ago, when drifting landmasses collided on a sea of molten lava, forming vast, volcanic mountain ranges, “Thanks to millions of years of erosion,” says Joel, “the secrets of this ancient rock did not remain buried in the earth, but rose to the surface, where the sun could illuminate its beautiful patterns and colours. As miners began traveling to the Shield to extract its hidden treasures – such as nickel, gold, silver, and copper – artists began traveling here to capture its unique beauty through their art.”
In recognition of this artist tradition, the Art Centre organized its 2013 theme, which reveals to audiences the sublime beauty of Shield Country. “The beauty in this part of the country is tied to the ancient rocks beneath our feet,” says Joel, “ and this year’s art show explores the many connections between them.”
The exhibit, “The Canadian Shield” will be on display from June 1st – October 19th, 2013 at the Algonquin Art Centre, located on Km. 20 in the heart of Algonquin Provincial Park. Voluntary admission. No Park Pass required.
