New summer art display at the Comox Valley Airport Captures The Spirit of the Comox Valley

VANCOUVER ISLAND, May 19, 2015 /CNW/ - The Comox Valley Airport has opened its featured summer art exhibition, which features two collections of unique artwork from Comox Valley artists.

"The Comox Valley Airport is thrilled to offer a wonderful selection of local art to enhance the passenger experience throughout the summer months - our busiest time of year at YQQ," said Comox Valley Airport CEO Fred Bigelow.  "We are pleased to partner with Vancouver Island MusicFest and Mid Island Gifts on two unique collections that will help to convey a sense of place, while promoting some of the more unique aspects of our community."

Vancouver Island MusicFest will display selected works from its "Capturing The Spirit" collection in the Arrivals area and outside On the Fly Café at YQQ. This initiative invites local Comox Valley artists to attend MusicFest and use their creative talents to capture the spirit of the Festival.  Using the method of his or her choice, each artist creates an original work that reflects the essence of the Festival as seen through their eyes. Over the years many artists have participated in "Capturing the Spirit" including Helen Utsal, Nanci Cook, Josh Klassen, Douglas Walker, Ian Fry and Kate Brown. 

The MusicFest collection is part of YQQ's 2015 public art program, which showcases Vancouver Island artists and aims to enhance the passenger experience by displaying art depicting the people, places, events and environment of communities in northern Vancouver Island.

In the Departures area of the Terminal, YQQ's Mid Island Gifts will be featuring its 2015 "Visions of Vancouver Island" display, which features selections of original local artwork and carvings for sale at the Gift Shop.  Featured artists include: Elissa Anthony, Bev Byerley, Helen Gamble, Tammy Hunter, Tracy Kobus, Esther Sample, Joe Smith, Brian and Nancy Street and Andrew Talbot.

New this year, passengers will have the chance to win a $25.00 gift certificate for Mid Island Gifts by casting their vote at the Gift Shop for their favourite piece on display in the Departures Area. A random draw will be held on the 15th of every month from June through October. The lucky winner each month will be contacted by Mid Island Gifts.

"Capturing The Spirit" and "Visions of Vancouver Island" run until November 1, 2015.  More information on these displays can be found on the Comox Valley Airport website at: www.comoxairport.com/art

SOURCE Comox Valley Airport

Media Contacts: Christianne Wile, Comox Valley Airport, 250-890-0829 ext. 253, [email protected]; Susan Wood, Vancouver Island MusicFest, [email protected], 250-465-9295