Art exhibition just for kids

BEDFORD - In an era where popular reality programs showcase singing and dancing talent, local artist Mark Gothreau wants to establish an annual venue where artistic youths have their own place to shine.

"I see these Canadian Idols and dancing shows, but there's nothing promoting a visual art, like painting or drawing for kids to participate in," said Gothreau.

Gothreau is organizing the second annual Scott Manor House children's art exhibition taking place next month. Last year's inaugural event was held during Bedford Days. This year it takes place from June 16 to 22, just ahead of the annual summer celebration.

The art exhibition is open to all young artists in HRM from Primary to Grade 12. Gothreau said it provides an opportunity for them to showcase their best work in a professional manner and to meet other like-minded young people.

"They get to realize that 'Hey, other kids are doing what I do and I'm not just a strange little person who prefers to stay inside because I like to draw and paint,'" he said.

No child is turned away, and each entrant will have a piece of artwork on display for public viewing during the week-long exhibition. Winners will also have their artwork displayed at Frame Plus Art in Sunnyside Mall.

The subject matter has been opened up this year to include more than just Bedford, although there will be two award categories for young artists who choose Bedford-based themes. Gothreau said although Scott Manor House is all about Bedford's history and the event helps showcase its heritage, they didn't want to place limits on creativity.

"We do have an award for best representation of Scott Manor House and a best representation of history in Bedford," Gothreau said. "If someone wants to paint an old scene of someone skating on Papermill Lake or the old train station, great."

Gothreau recalls how important it was for him as a young artist to receive comments and encouragement from people outside his immediate family.

"Those comments spurred me on to do even better," he said. "For the kids, I know it's important because it's another recognition for them."

The goal is to grow the event slowly each year. Gothreau dreams of a day when local sponsors make it possible to host the Scott Manor House exhibition at a much larger venue.

"To have something like this held at the Cunard Centre 10 years from now would be phenomenal for the kids," he said.

"I hope with every year that it grows a little bit and kids know it's an event they can look forward to, something to inspire them, to get them working on projects so they can enter their best work."

The deadline for entry forms is May 31. Forms can be picked up and dropped off at the Bedford Public Library. All artwork must be dropped off at Scott Manor House between June 2 and 7.

ydentremont@hfxnews.ca