Artists come together to explore owls

From wood to clay, photographs to textiles, Who Gives a Hoot explores owls from a variety of viewpoints.

The show, opening Oct. 4 at the Summerland Art Gallery with a gala reception from 7 to 9 p.m., features the works of artists from a number of disciplines, all exploring the theme of owls.

The show is hosted by the Summerland Community Arts Council and includes work from the Potters’ Guild, the art club, Desert Sage Spinners & Weavers, TAFA Summerland Fibre Artists and others, including students from Giant’s Head Elementary School.

“I think everybody likes owls,” said photographer Elizabeth Wrobel, one of the organizers. “When we started, we thought it would be nice to invite different groups so the show would be more interesting than just owls made from clay.

“That was the idea, just to bring all other groups to make a show together, one community, one group of artists.”

To help support the work of The South Okanagan Rehab Centre for Owls (SORCO), the Potters’ Guild has created owl-themed items that will be for sale by donation to SORCO. Other participating artists have also committed to contributing proceeds from the sale of their pieces to SORCO, and the opening will feature a special guest, SORCO’s Houdini, the great-horned owl from 7 to 8 p.m.

Wrobel said it seemed only right to support SORCO with the show, considering the work they do helping injured owls and other raptors.

Opening night refreshments sponsored by Thornhaven Estates Winery and the exhibit runs to Nov. 17.