Image credit: Mill at Consecon by Lorraine Mackie
Quinte Arts Council’s Celebrated Juried Exhibition Concludes with a Tribute to Its Legacy
Belleville, ON – The Quinte Arts Council invites the public to the opening reception of “Expressions: Legacy”, the final iteration of its beloved biennial juried exhibition, on Wednesday, May 15, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at the John M. Parrott Art Gallery. The evening will include the presentation of awards, and the exhibition will remain on view until June 14, 2025.
Running for nearly 30 years, “Expressions” has been a hallmark of the region’s artistic landscape, offering a professional platform for visual artists and artisans across the Quinte area. With the 2025 edition themed “Legacy”, this final exhibition reflects on the profound and lasting impact “Expressions” has had on generations of creatives and the cultural vitality of the community.
Janet Jarrell, Executive Director of the Quinte Arts Council, shared:
“Since its inception in 1996 by local artist Peta Hall – then a member of the Board of Directors, the Quinte Arts Council’s biennial juried exhibition ‘Expressions’ has been a cornerstone of the Quinte region’s artistic community. Celebrating a diverse array of visual arts and craft, it has provided a platform for artists and artisans to showcase their talents. As we approach its final iteration, the theme ‘Legacy’ aptly encapsulates the enduring impact and inspiration this exhibition has imparted over the years.”
This year’s exhibition was juried by Valerie Kent B.F.A., B.Ed., M.F.A., O.C.T., a renowned multidisciplinary artist, educator, and juror known for her vibrant and emotionally evocative work that explores themes of identity, memory, and the human experience. Valerie’s innovative use of colour, texture, and form invites viewers into immersive environments that stir perception and feeling.
Kent’s extensive international exhibition record includes shows in China, France, Italy, Holland, Korea, Japan, the USA, and numerous respected Canadian galleries including Galerie Q, Gallery on the Lake, and the J.M. Parrott Gallery. She has led artist retreats in France, Italy, and Canada, taught at various institutions and art associations, and served as juror for numerous festivals and exhibitions, including Elora Plein Air Festival, Scarborough Art Society, Hamilton Plein Air, and previous Quinte Arts Council exhibitions.
Join us as we celebrate the culmination of an era and honour the legacy of “Expressions” with an unforgettable evening of art, community, and recognition.
Awards:
Best in expressionism – Still Waiting on a Train by Sarah Palmer
Best use of light – The Wedding Dress by Lori Gillespie.
Creative excellence – A Legacy of Women by Kelli Diosi
Most innovative use of colour – Heartbeat by Jacqueline Staikos
Best use of perspective – Rousing Giant by David Alexander
Best landscape in any medium – Snow is Coming by Vadim Vaskovsky
Craft Ontario: Best craft design – Family by Paul Shier
Juror’s Choice Award – Garden Party by Marta Mouka
Best in Show – Mill at Consecon by Lorraine Mackie
Event Details:
Opening Reception: May 15, 6:00 – 7:30 PM
Location: John M. Parrott Art Gallery, 254 Pinnacle St., Belleville
Exhibition Dates: May 15 – June 14, 2025
Admission: Free
For more information, please contact:
Quinte Arts Council
qac@quinteartscouncil.org | 613-962-1232
www.quinteartscouncil.org
