Mann Art Gallery's Remix Exhibit Reinterprets Permanent Collection

The Mann Art Gallery in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, launched its new “Remix” exhibition on Saturday, September 19. The show features selections from the gallery's permanent collection, curated by four local artists to offer fresh perspectives on existing works.

Curators Reframe Gallery's Extensive Holdings

The exhibition divides into four distinct sections, each reflecting its respective artist's curatorial vision. Heather Benning, George Glenn, Ace Denzel, and Studio Q (represented by Alex Powalinsky and Lisa Halsall) selected pieces from the gallery's extensive collection of over 4,000 artworks. Their aim was to recontextualize these pieces, allowing viewers to engage with them in novel ways.

Co-curator George Glenn emphasized the viewer's critical role in the artistic process. He stated that an artwork becomes merely an object without viewer engagement, which imbues it with energy, intelligence, and perception. This interaction, Glenn noted, transforms an object into art.

Vaulted Artworks Re-enter Public View

A central theme among the curators was the desire to bring pieces from the Mann Art Gallery's permanent collection vault back into public view. This approach allows the public to experience these works through unique curatorial lenses and form their own interpretations. Ace Denzel, another co-curator, highlighted art's subjective nature, explaining his selection created a personal narrative distinct from the artists' original intentions.

Denzel noted the gallery sought to showcase its collection beyond individual pieces, engaging curators to reveal the stories behind the artworks and artists. Glenn recounted a preliminary meeting with co-curators and Artistic Director Jesse Campbell, where they discussed accessing the vault, typically inaccessible to the public. He observed that only a few pieces initially stood out due to their size or three-dimensional qualities.

Glenn's Curatorial Vision Takes Shape

Glenn, an artist and teacher residing in Prince Albert since 1975, described his curatorial experience as positive. He stressed the importance of a professional non-profit gallery in fostering community and providing a space for artistic display. After spending only 30 minutes in the vault, Glenn developed a clear vision for his “Remix” selections, focusing on pieces that could spark conversation with viewers.

He specifically mentioned 'Give me your word' by Catherine Blackburn, 'Sister Anastasia' by Joe Farfard, and an untitled portrait by Alex Moy as works that resonated with him. Glenn selected other pieces based on similar principles, sometimes connecting them to this initial group and other times establishing new relationships within the collection. He also expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with the other curators, noting the diverse energy they brought to the project.

Denzel's Debut Curatorial Approach

“Remix” marks Denzel's first curatorial role, an experience he found both exciting and gratifying. With a background in paintings, murals, and street art, Denzel viewed curating as an extension of his artistic practice. His selection focused on a transition of earthy tones, such as green and brown, alongside vibrant colors, drawing inspiration from his own use of neon hues like orange and blue.

Denzel's choices also reflected his appreciation for nature and landscapes depicted across various mediums, including painting, weaving, printmaking, and pottery. He emphasized that his selections were not solely based on personal preference but on the perceived skill, patience, and dedication involved in creating each piece. He cited a 15-year-old weaving that, despite its age, appeared contemporary, highlighting the timelessness of artistic talent independent of digital influences.

Exhibition Sparks New Community Dialogue

Both Glenn and Denzel agreed that the “Remix” exhibition successfully blends diverse artworks from the permanent collection, infusing them with new vitality. Glenn concluded that the exhibition provides a secure environment for varied discussions, enriching the community's engagement with art.