With the first-ever Crowfest set to take over the streets of Chatham in less than a week, there will be no shortage of crow-themed activities for residents to check out.
Crowfest runs from October 12 to 15 with a wide variety of events happening over the course of the four days.
ARTspace will celebrate the occasion and the fall seasons with a couple of new exhibitions.
"Blood Ties," a new exhibition of assemblages and sculptures by artists Laurie Langford and Mike Ondrovcik exploring the concept of kin, will be on display at the gallery.
"Respected members of the CK art scene for many years, Langford and Ondrovcik, decided to team up in pursuit of a shared vision," Thames Art Gallery Curator Phil Vanderwall said through a media release. "Through the long months of pandemic isolation, they became keenly aware of their connection to family and the rich and complex influence it holds...Langford and Ondrovcik are recognized for their humour, curiosity, and ability to transform ordinary materials into flights of visual fancy."
Regional ceramicist Chris Snedden’s work will also be displayed as he celebrates Crowfest with a signature line of ceramics entitled "Echo of Crows," which includes finely crafted plates, mugs, and teapots.
Both exhibitions open to the public on October 12 at ARTspace, located at 165½ King Street West in downtown Chatham.
An artist's reception will be held on Friday, October 14 at 7 p.m. The event is free and family-friendly.
"The artists will be present to speak about their work, so don't miss this opportunity to introduce yourself, support our local art scene, and experience the vibrant and growing artistic community of Chatham-Kent," said Vanderwall.
Elsewhere, a local author will be signing copies of her debut novel to coincide with Crowfest.
After losing a friend to suicide, counsellor Kodie Van Dusen wrote Birds in the Black Water about overcoming grief and surmounting the guilt, blame, and ‘what ifs’ following the loss.
Birds in the Black Water (Submitted photo)
Van Dusen describes the novel as a dark, paranormal drama that is a compelling read for anyone who has ever struggled with feeling responsible for the well-being of their loved ones.
Van Dusen will be signing copies of the book at Turns and Tales on King Street in Chatham on October 15 from 2-4 p.m. More about Van Dusen and her novel can be found by clicking here.
A full schedule and detailed descriptions of Crowfest events can be found by clicking here.
