Pumphouse exhibit features work of instructors

One of the current exhibits at the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre allows patrons to get to know the work of the people who teach at the centre.
The Pumphouse Instructors’ Exhibition features the oeuvres of several artists who teach classes and workshops at the gallery, including locals such as David Antscherl. The artist is a former physiotherapist and human anatomy researcher, giving him profound insight into the inner workings of the body for life drawing. Antscherl’s “Anatomy for Life Drawing” class starts on Jan. 14.
Other artists in the exhibit include Patricia Haftar and Kayla Benner. One of Haftar’s pieces demonstrates the acrylic pouring class she will be teaching next month. The artist describes her work in relation to “rhythm, movement, pattern, texture and colour,” and says, “The pumphouse is an excellent example of a structure that encapsulates the rhythm, patterns, textures, colours and movement of the community in which it is situated.”
Banner is a potter based in Port Colborne, who will be teaching an introduction to pottery series in January and February.
The exhibit, which runs until March 31, “offers a glimpse into the diversity and creativity of our instructors,” says Rima Boles, the art centre’s director. “It also shows students examples of what type of work they can expect from any given course.”
Boles says, “Some of these people have been teaching at the Pumphouse for a good 20 years — and we’re always looking for new instructors to bring new course offerings.”
“We are so fortunate to have this local art centre which focuses on education in all aspects of visual art for new and experienced artists of all ages. This historical building and space is such a great place to go to explore new creative ideas and to make paintings, sculptures, and many other arts and crafts. I love teaching in their big bright studio at the banks of the river. It’s all so inspiring in itself," says instructor Sandra Iafrate.
Winter programs start in early January. The Pumphouse will be closed between Dec. 24 and Jan. 1, but a full list of courses is available on its website, at niagarapumphouse.ca.
The arts centre has also put out a call to artists for its Walker Industries Art Competition. The competition is juried by a panel of six locals and art academics, and will culminate in prize money of up to $2,500. Deadline for submissions is March 30, 2019; details can be found on the arts centre’s website.