LETTER

It’s the language of art

 

In response to a letter on page 7 of last week’s Bulletin -- Mr Carisse writes of an exhibition at a local art gallery – I am greatly concerned about his negative tone just because the exhibiting artist lives in Ontario.

I, a professional artist who has lived in Ontario, believe that regional galleries do welcome artists from both provinces. If there’s a public that wants to see the latest work, and doesn't mind crossing a bridge, then by all means! We don't have walls between our provinces, do we?

Don't we recognize that painting, like dance, theatre and music, transcends language and specific cultures? This artist wanted to communicate to Mr Carisse in her language, the language of painting. He seems interested only in her speaking 'his' language. How unfortunate that he missed that opportunity to learn more about her work.

As for her name, many families have histories that are not in the language they speak. That does not make them less valuable. The days of language battles are long over. As for the sale he reminds her she missed, this was the piece she wanted to share with him.

I invite Mr Carisse to visit that gallery once more without the bias of the name or her language and view the works on their own merit.  See if the works 'speak' to him.

Linda Girard
Aylmer/Gatineau

(This letter was changed to refer to the correct name of the letter-writer, Mr Carisse of Luskville; the Bulletin had erred in attributing the letter to someone else. - Editor)