Installation by Libby Hague. Image links to enlarged photo.

I have had a glimpse at just a few shows that are up, ready for openings tonight and Saturday. Have to let you see two works that are a taste of larger offerings by these artists. Libby Hague whose installation at the Lennox Contemporary gallery is a jaw-dropper. It takes up a big wall, woodcut on Okawara plus plus plus. The title is “Spectacular setting 2 hrs. from Huntsville, hot and cold running water, wildlife, must see”. You MUST see this one. In the same gallery is an extensive collection of beautiful textured prints by Brian Kelley whose dedication and talent deserve much more attention.

Work by Susan Farquhar. Image links to enlarged photo.

This work by Susan Farquhar at the David Kaye Gallery is one of many pieces in the show that use washi in a truly innovative and effective way. Serenity abounds here.

‘Garden Gate’ by Wesley Bates. Image links to enlarged photo.

And lastly, a striking show at the Gallery in the Garden (scroll down for press release) at the Sherway Gardens shopping mall in Etobicoke (next to Holt Renfrew) called “Basic Black on Washi” is up. This image, “Garden Gate”, is a wood engraving by Wesley Bates who shares the spotlight there with Wendy Cain and Elizabeth Forrest. It’s a little out of the way but an interesting space for a gallery and well worth the trip to Sherway to take in these three seasoned print artists.

This will be my last entry until it’s over, but I urge you to tune in to and comment on the interactive blog set up by Reg Beatty. Here’s the address again: www.washiseen.blogspot.com.

Become a roving reporter by checking in with Reg at washiwatcher@gmail.com. Photos, text, notification of not-to-be-misseds, reminders of special events - whatever you’d like to share with other visitors to the World Washi Summit.

Catch you later, and enjoy the glories for the next 10 days of art on washi!