The Crofton Art Group will host its annual Spring Show and Sale on May 9 and 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Crofton Seniors Centre, 1507 Joan Ave.
While their fall event typically features unframed or matted work, the spring show runs over two days and showcases ready-to-hang framed pieces large and small. And that does mean small.
“We have what's called teeny tinies, which are 8 by 10 or smaller paintings,” said group president Sue Bosecker.
In addition to framed artwork, there will be original art cards, pottery, jewelry and more. Guests can enjoy free coffee, tea and homemade goodies while browsing the displays and chatting with the artists.
The group exhibits twice a year, with about 20 members typically taking part in each show, drawn from the group’s 44-person membership.
Now in its 71st year, the Crofton Art Group is the second-oldest art group on Vancouver Island, following the Victoria Sketch Group. Members meet weekly from September through June at the Crofton Seniors Centre to paint, socialize and participate in monthly art challenges and regular workshops in a range of media.
It’s an art group, but for its participants, it has become much more than that.
“It's like a second family,” said Bosecker. “It's a very, very close connection within the group itself and very supportive.”
That sense of camaraderie and care is foundational. When a member’s husband died recently, the group rallied around her. Another member undergoing cancer treatment has also received steady support.
Each member was new at one time, and Bosecker knows it can be intimidating to take up a new pursuit or join a group. She said they make a point of welcoming new members and those new to making art.
“You can come in as a complete beginner, and there's others of us that have been painting for years,” she said. “We're extremely supportive of the new people.”
Bosecker herself has been involved for 20 years, which might seem like a long time — but not compared to the four lifetime members who have participated for more than 30. Bosecker joked she’s still in her apprenticeship.
She wears several hats with the Crofton Art Group — president, treasurer, workshop organizer and, of course, artist — but doesn’t mind the workload.
“I enjoy it!” she said. “We have such a happy group.”
That happiness shines through not only in their weekly art-making sessions, but also in how they work together to prepare for shows.
“You just wouldn't believe the action that is created by this group,” she said. “You don't even have to tell them what to do. It's just symbiotic.”
Bosecker looks forward to welcoming the public into their world of art and sharing their creations. She knows visitors will be impressed because the artists often feel that way themselves.
“We paint together every week, but when it comes to a show, all of a sudden all this work comes out of the woodwork, sort of, and you think, ‘Oh my gosh, you did that!’ and we're just amazed at ourselves and what we've created.”
With Mother’s Day around the corner on May 11, the Crofton Art Group Spring Show and Sale is the perfect opportunity to find a unique gift from a local talent. Admission is free.
For more information, visit the Crofton Art Group website or Facebook page.
