Showcasing a work in progress

Artwork by Drew Taylor

By: Andrew Mrozowski

For many artists, creating their work is a very emotional experience, forcing them to go through various stages. At one point they could feel wonderful and happy before immediately turning to disappointment. This creates a fragile state for artists and makes them feel vulnerable with their unfinished piece.

On Nov. 30, 13 various artists from Mississauga to Niagara Falls will come together to share pieces that they are working on, amongst other pieces they have done in the past. As they get ready to showcase what they have in store for viewers, three sisters meticulously plan out the second annual Work In Progress art exhibit, taking place in Hamilton’s industrial district.

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Michelle Teitsma, lead artist and curator, came up with the idea after she considered the financial investment that is typically required to participate in other shows, costing artists upwards of a few hundred dollars to display their work. To make ends meet, they need to be confident that the work will sell.

“When you go to a show, you want to see real artists. People who have spent years working on their craft. You also want diversity. Not everybody is into the same type of art, but you still want a nice taste of everything. So, when I put it out to the art world about doing [Work In Progress], my sisters wanted to help out with it,” explained Teitsma.

With the event being sponsored by Marie Phillips and planned by Helen Campbell, the trio of sisters are only charging artists a small fee with all profits from the event going back into the artists’ pockets.

“It’s our hope that the artists leave with more than they put down to be a part of this,” said Teitsma.

For Teitsma, this is the culmination of almost 30 years worth of work in the art world. Graduating from Sheridan College for traditional-style animation in 1983, Teitsma was fascinated with learning different mediums before eventually settling on oils as her medium of choice.

Setting up shop in Dundas, Teitsma has found herself captivated by the world around her. Just stepping outside of her door and experiencing the community of Dundas has its own particular vibe that inspires her.

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“I’ve been doing a lot of street scenes from Dundas. Although, I’m very taken by the feel of Hamilton... Hamilton has a lot to offer with its history, the people, it’s a very working, hands on, soul to the earth mentality, and I think that is really expressed in the paintings,” explained Teitsma.

Teitsma is just one of the thirteen artists who will have their work displayed at the art exhibit. Various artists across many disciplines working with paint, ink, photography and materials including leather, pottery and real flowers will showcase their work. Not one artist is the same as the other and all the works will be in progress.

“With artists showing their fragile side, it opens up conversation between them and the viewer with the hopes of getting them to understand what the artist is trying to do... I want them to leave with their minds opened a little more than they arrived. To see things that they might not have expected to see," explained Teitsma.

Work In Progress will take place on Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. at the Cotton Factory on Sherman Avenue North.

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