“Sometimes we see 

only what we want to see…

and our world suddenly 

feels brighter”

Liz Maxwell

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but sometimes fifteen words can add a whole new dimension to a work of art, and Liz Maxwell’s untitled poem, inspired by Maureen Fatin’s photo, Hummingbird Orchid, is a case in point.

The Convergence: Images + Words show, on display at the Rainforest Arts gallery until March 28, celebrates that interplay between artists and writers. The creative synergy on exhibit there defies the constraining logic of ‘one plus one and must always equal two.’

In fact, there are at least three perspectives on each of the scenes depicted in the show’s artworks: the artist’s, the response of the poets, and the convergent thoughts and feelings of the person actually standing in front of the works—that would be you. We are constantly reminded from those alternative viewpoints that art in all its disciplines is in the eyes of its beholders and affords us limitless interpretive possibilities and opportunities for reflection and dialogue.

Twenty-three artworks are included in the show, and each is accompanied by responsive poetry or prose by writers from the region. The words are mounted on 5×7-inch cards next to the art. Visitors to the gallery will find themselves pausing a little longer and studying the artworks a little more intently, comparing their own impressions with those of the writers. It’s like walking through a gallery with a companion, stopping to talk about each painting as you go.

Convergence: Images + Words will be on display at Rainforest Arts until March 28. Convergence gift cards will be available, so you can share your experience with family and friends. The gallery, located at 9781 Willow Street in Chemainus, is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. More information at 

RainforestArts.ca. 

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