From October 5 to November 28, “Unmasked” turned Bowness Mainstreet into a creativity and community engagement hub. Hosted at the Tiny Galleries, this exhibition brought art into the neighbourhood, tearing down the usual barriers between artists and the public.
The Teeny Tiny Art Collective, created by local artists Jamie Lynn Bowen and M. Scott Ault, led this initiative by using “micro” galleries to expand artistic reach. These spaces make art approachable for those who might avoid traditional galleries, inviting both artists and art lovers to engage directly. By situating these galleries in the centre of Bowness Mainstreet, the collective has highlighted local culture, boosted community pride, supported small businesses, and woven art into the fabric of daily life.
The exhibit highlighted diverse, talented artists, with standout contributions from Krista Kirkpatrick-Hatch, Tazim Esmail, and Saram.
Krista Kirkpatrick-Hatch: A Journey of Resilience and Creative Expression
Krista Kirkpatrick-Hatch captivated viewers with art that drew deeply from her own experiences of resilience and self-discovery. As a self-taught artist and mother of three, a rigid art teacher in high school initially discouraged Krista from pursuing her artistic interests. However, she eventually found her way back to art through an independent course that allowed her to explore her creativity on her own terms. Art later became a vital therapeutic outlet during tough times like postpartum depression and anxiety, allowing her to share her journey of healing and empowerment with others.
Her standout piece used three-dimensional plaster moulds of hands to explore the red string theory, which suggests invisible connections bind people together. This work reflects her belief in the profound ties that unify individuals regardless of societal divisions. Through contrasting colours, Krista’s art emphasizes shared vulnerabilities and unexpected links across diverse backgrounds. Her insights as a disability support worker, where she often observes rapid life changes, also resonate in her work, aiming to provoke thoughts on human connection and unity.
Tazim Esmail: Challenging Perceptions Through Empathy and Art
Tazim Esmail, another compelling voice in the exhibit, brought a unique perspective with her Women’s Studies and English Literature background. Her journey into art began during extended hospital stays in her youth, where arts and crafts provided a source of comfort and creativity. Later, as she pursued her degrees, Tazim became deeply involved in community art projects, working with women and the homeless to use art for social change and personal reflection. This foundation in empathy and understanding of complex social themes deeply informs her art, where she tackles issues of appearance and judgment through vividly crafted paper-mâché masks.
A key inspiration for her work is her aunt, who had Down syndrome and often faced negative judgments based on her appearance. Tazim’s masks challenge viewers to look beyond superficial judgments and recognize the diverse stories and humanity within each individual. Her involvement in projects like the East Village mask initiative and the Teeny Tiny Galleries allows her to use her art to foster dialogues about vulnerability and identity.
Saram: Bridging Communities Through Queer Art
Saram’s acrylic portraits uniquely celebrate queerness with subtlety and depth. Saram, a graduate of the Alberta University of the Arts in 2018, explores queer art to bridge queer and non-queer communities. Their portraits in “Unmasked,” though without detailed facial features, convey a strong sense of identity and safety for queer individuals. By capturing the essence of the subjects, Saram highlights shared humanity, creating a space for recognition and familiarity among those who know the portrayed.
Saram’s participation in the Teeny Tiny Galleries was motivated by a desire to bring queer art into the public eye, a move they see as crucial for fostering societal acceptance and broadening the visibility of queer narratives. Inspired by a larger series, Saram made smaller acrylic versions on wood, keeping the connection to the original full-sized pieces. This approach provided a compelling dynamic, underscoring how queer individuals can sometimes feel marginalized or minimized in public spaces.
Looking Forward
With the conclusion of “Unmasked,” the Teeny Tiny Art Collective presents “Luminaries,” a vibrant exhibition from November 30 to January 30. “Luminaries” celebrates the transition from darkness to light, highlighting the solstice and the approach of spring.
Bowen and Ault are making a remarkable impact in Calgary by integrating art into everyday life and making it accessible to all. For more details, visit teenytinyartcollective.com and keep an eye out for the next opportunity to submit your work.
Whether you’re an artist wanting to showcase your talent or someone eager to explore innovative art, the Teeny Tiny Art Collective provides numerous opportunities to engage and participate in Calgary’s vibrant art scene.
