2006.06.04
Holgate at the Glenbow
Today is the last day for the Holgate exhibit at the Glenbow, so I figured I had better check it out. Jason and I spent a couple of hours at the museum yesterday, and it was definitely worthwhile.
I’m sure most Canadians have seen at least one of Holgate’s works at some point in their lives, but to see so many of them in a location other than the National Gallery was a definite treat, since the Glenbow is a lot closer to home.
I was most impressed by the portraits in the exhibit. Many of them were oddly compelling, and his use of subtle shadow to give depth to the scene is extraordinary. And of course, many of the portraits have a visual style and use of color similar to other Group of Seven artists, making them easy to identify as Holgate’s work.
Once again, though, I was forced to think that it’s a bit of a shame that more people don’t go to the museum more often. I’ve got a number of friends and acquaintances that would probably have enjoyed the exhibit, but I doubt very many went to see it.
I suppose that’s part of why I’m a member – I can go whenever I like, I enjoy going, and I’m also supporting what I think is an important institution in Calgary.
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