ELORA – A new curated exhibition enitled Symbiosis by Newfoundland texile artist Anastasia Tiller opens in the gallery at the Elora Centre for the Arts on July 18, with a reception with the artist planned for July 28 at 2 pm.
In this immersive installation of paintings and textiles, the artist invites visitors into a playful, colourful world of fantastical sea creatures, offering a unique and thought-provoking exploration of the symbiotic relationship between nature and humanity.
Merging traditional Newfoundland rug hooking techniques with contemporary artistic interpretations, Tiller finds inspiration in the diverse ecosystems of the Bonavista Peninsula (NL), as well as in the fascinating array of fossils recently found on the island, which tell stories of life forms from over 500 million years ago.
In her paintings and soft sculptures, Tiller combines the real and imagined, old and futuristic, large and small, creating new, hybrid beings and ecosystems.
Humans are guests in these worlds, encouraged to recognize and respect other forms of life.
Symbiosis is an immersive, tactile experience that goes beyond experiencing art on walls.
Visitors are encouraged to interact and physically engage with the pieces – grab a selfie with the the 7-foot tall Bonavista Hugger, or give the Sea Flea Trilobite a squeeze.
Try on the Crown and imagine yourself as a king or queen in an underwater realm.
Tiller’s fantastical approach to ocean creatures, the bright pops of colour, and the optimism that exudes from the texile pieces appeals to everyone.
An opening reception for Symbiosis will take place on July 28 from 2 to 4pm.
The artist will be in attendance, and everyone is welcome.
Admission is free.
Gallery hours for July and August are Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 11am to 4pm.
The exhibition runs until September 15.
For more information about the exhibition and the artist, visit eloracentreforthearts.ca.
