The benefits of being an Olympic host city are far reaching. It’s about more than just athletes, performers and profits for hotels. For the art community in British Columbia, the 2010 Winter Games offer unique opportunities to exhibit work and celebrate the artistic heritage of the province. More importantly, a next generation of artists can be nurtured during this boom time for the city.

A new exhibition at Emily Carr exemplifies those advantages. “The Spirit of Place” opening reception took place Thursday night with the unveiling of 75 images created by young artists from across the province. The students, who range from ages 6-16, worked under the tutelage of alumni from the Granville Island-based school.

“The young artists were initially hesitant to voice their ideas, but confidence quickly grew as we discussed how they might engage with the materials supplied. We exchanged ideas about the meaning of sustainability, and what Vancouver means to them,” says Leah van der Voort MacFarlane, one of the 15 mentors. “To work with professional-quality materials in a ‘real’ studio made the experience a great one for all of us.”

The artwork evokes culture, sport and sustainability in B.C., and was made possible because of sponsorship from Emily Carr, Arts Umbrella, Save the Children Canada and the Cultural Olympiad.

Pica Interactive was honored to create the website, logo and exhibit design for “The Spirit of Place” project. The exhibition, which debuted as part of the Winterrpution festivities, can be seen at Emily Carr through March 8.

The artwork can also be seen on the website SpiritofPlace.eciad.ca

Chiliwack "pod" with Samantha Pedersen (centre) pose in front of her painting

Arts Umbrella Choir perform on opening night

*photography by Julia Pelish Photography

*article written by Adrian Brijbassi