The Markham Group of Artists (MGA) Windows Open 2022 online juried show continues and much of the “bold, fearless and unapologetically unique artwork” is available for sale.
“My main criteria for choosing a work are that it must bring a personal expression and an original way to formulate a particular theme that opens up a new and fresh dimension to the viewer,” Juror Ernestine Tahedl explains. “The works I chose for the awards and honourable mentions have impressed me the most, as I felt they have achieved this mandate the best.”
The show explores two sides to artists: the “cloistered creator” and the “exhibitionist,” MGA explains. The show can be viewed on the MGA website. Click on each painting for additional insight in the artists’ descriptions and for Tahedl’s comments on each of the award-winning works.
The group was incorporated in 2012 and includes artists from beginners to professionals who work in a variety of media and styles. MGA welcomes all visual artists and currently has a membership of 70 artists, most of whom live in the City of Markham. It offers a variety of workshops and lectures by distinguished artists and stages a variety of juried and non-juried shows in the community each year, including a juried show at the McKay Art Centre of Unionville.
MGA artists can be found painting community scenes outdoors each spring, summer and fall. The group collaborates with the City of Markham community, including participating in public art projects such as painting mosaics and, on occasion, with the Varley Art Gallery.
MGA’s mission includes providing opportunities for its members to improve and grow their artistic talent by recognizing and encouraging excellence in visual art through granting of awards and distinctions, energizing artistic creativity through a supportive network of artists and providing opportunities for exposure of members’ artwork through shows, digital media and public art.