MillStory
Headwaters Arts Gallery: Denis Hopkins
Wed Jul 11 - Sun Aug 12
Headwaters Arts Gallery, Alton Mill
Headwaters Arts Gallery Presents:
Denis Hopkins
A celebration of one of Ontario's traditionalist artists.
"I concentrate on seeing the subtleties of what is before me and on drawing them as accurately as possible."
Regional artists collaborate to present a unique collection of work, in memory of a much loved colleague Denis Hopkins. The show is on display at the Headwaters Arts Gallery in the historic Alton Mill Arts Centre, from July 11 to August 12 with an opening reception on Saturday, July 14, from 1-4pm. In a departure from Headwaters Arts usual programming, the gallery is not featuring works by current members; instead artists are volunteering their time, labour, and covering the costs so that the community where Denis Hopkins lived, and worked as a psychiatrist for so many years, can enjoy a comprehensive selection of his artwork, demonstrating incredible skill and expertise.
Long-time Headwaters Arts member John Ashbourne notes that Hopkins' personality didn't fit with the popular construct of "the artist as flamboyant bohemian," describing Denis as a quiet and gentle man. Hopkins trained as a doctor and worked as a psychiatrist, caring for individuals struggling with mental health. He worked for many years at the Homewood Health Centre in Guelph, and later became its Medical Director. After retirement, he studied art extensively in France, honing his technique and becoming an expert at drawing and painting still life subjects, landscapes, and the human figure. Hopkins revelled in replicating the subtleties of the real world, instead of following the trends of modern art.
Ashbourne elaborates that Denis' dedication, painting every day until a few days before his death last year at the age of 89, was a labour of love. "He gave his time generously to other painters who had not had his opportunities. Denis shared his learning, lending books and supporting the arts in 'his' area. He wanted to be the best that he could be."
Hopkins' artwork is priced specially for this show, to allow the artist's friends and community an opportunity to delight in Denis' pieces; as the artist delighted in making them.
The Headwaters Arts Gallery at the Alton Mill Arts Centre is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm, and holiday Mondays; admission to the gallery is free. This show will be on display during the popular Wine and Food Festival Saturday, July 21, 2018 at the Alton Mill.
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