Saturday, December 08, 2007
Dear Members,
Another year is almost over in the history of MFAA, and our individual journeys down the artistic road to life.
Much has been accomplished even though the signs are not always up front. Some of you may be wondering what our future holds which is part of the reason for this Christmas letter. It seems that in any organization, a small but dedicated group do the leg-work to make everything run as smoothly as possible. They give of their time without thought of praise. Their reward is the satisfaction of a job well done.
A great example is Jon Butler, our Website Whiz. He tells us that over the past year 10,574 hits were recorded with a daily average doubling from 20 to 40 per day since May! A grateful thank you to Jon for keeping us up front.
You may also be wondering as to what happened to the newsletter? Simply put, not enough news or items of interest were sent in by members! As that old saying goes, if the hens don't grow, no eggs to show. On the bright side, plans are underway for a new 'life-line' by way of news via the website and the possibility of an occasional column in the local newspaper.
Typical worthy items were the two photographic exhibitions by members John Knox and Jon Butler. Here, separate shows demonstrated how we, as artists, see and approach subjects differently with an eye to extremely high standards. Way to go guys!
The Manitoulin Art Tour this year grew in leaps and bounds and was certainly taken to a higher plain. Again, a small handful of members went beyond the call. They hung banners, erected signs, catalogued names and did many tasks that made the whole weekend possible. From all who participated, we thank you.
Another rousing success was the Artastic Fusion Exhibition at M.S.S. Once again a small number took part. This is an important link between MFAA, the school, budding artists, students and perhaps clients of the future. For those of you who were unable to exhibit, you missed out on the accolades from students and public alike, free exhibiting space, great lighting and student helpers who made the whole experience worthwhile.
Next year, Artastic Fusion will only be a one-day event held on a Friday. Times and the date will be forwarded to you.
Extra news is that much discussion has taken place over the past months as to our membership in NOAA. Since their fee structure has risen dramatically, your executive felt that the cost far outweighed the very small number of members who participated in NOAA's Annual Exhibition. However, the good news is that we have opted to renew our club membership in NOAA; in future, however, members will be responsible for paying their entry fee as they previously did and also the shipping costs.
These three venues are certainly important in any artist’s career and worthy of participation. Perhaps worth mentioning is that many moons ago I sent work in for the Annual NOAA juried show and was rejected. And so, as part of the 'journey', I realized I must aim higher and try again. That simple rejection slip made all the difference!
As is often the case in any organization, the question occasionally arises as to the benefits of being a member and is the fee worthy? My own personal opinion is YES. As artists, the act of creating can be a lonely part of our lives. Membership can be another lifeline and a chance to rub shoulders with like-minded souls. Here, as a collective group, we can show our talents, enjoy each other, learn and expand.
With this in mind, I invite one and all to our annual Christmas get-together with food supplied and, if you so desire, 'BYOB'. The 'bash' will be held on Saturday, December 8th at 2:00 pm at the home of Linda Williamson located at 4909B Hwy 542 Mindemoya - 5ish minutes east of Mindemoya. We will be having a brief meeting to select a new slate of officers for the coming year. Good news is that most current members have offered to stay for another term! Perhaps this is a record and speaks loudly of their belief in the organization.
On a personal note, my thanks to all of you who have made the role of acting President so much easier for me.
I wish you all the very best for 2008 and may the paint fly and the shutters click!
Sincerely,
Ivan
posted by The Manitoulin Fine Arts Association 2:00 PM
INVITATION TO ALL MFAA MEMBERS
MFAA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND XMAS PARTY
Plans are now being finalized for our Annual General Meeting and the Christmas Party which will follow.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, December 8th at 2:00 pm and Linda Williamson has graciously offered to host the event at her home located at 4909B Hwy 542 Mindemoya - 5 minutes east of Mindemoya. The Annual General Meeting will precede the party and will include the Election of Officers.... good news is that most current members have offered to stay for another term and we expect a short meeting!
Food will be supplied and if you so desire, 'BYOB'. Ivan has offered to have a slide show of his work during the course of the afternoon. No gift exchange is planned so you have nothing to bring but yourselves and your beverage of choice!
Linda will have balloons hanging as markers on the highway for easy identification. If instructions are needed on how to get there, please contact Linda at 377-5493 or by email at blwilliamson@amtelecom.net .
Hope to see you there!
Linda
posted by The Manitoulin Fine Arts Association 2:00 PM
