Exhibit showcases artwork by local youth

The town’s youth are finding out what Picasso meant when he said, “Every child is an artist, the problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” 

Kaity Zozula, summer employee at the Jasper Artists’ Guild (JAG), is organizing Ain’t that the Youth, an exhibit showcasing the work of talented youngsters. When JAG members tried to think of a way to put an empty back room to use, she saw an opportunity.

“We decided to take advantage of it and open it to youth,” the 17-year-old said. “We’re trying to turn a space that isn’t used into another way to showcase people. It’s all about giving kids their first taste, their first opportunity to see their stuff in a professional way.”

JAG member Claude Boocock said Zozula seemed to be the “perfect person” to offer the space to. “She seems to be a real leader of her peers and she’s interested in the arts,” she said. “And it’s also something to keep her interested while she’s at the gallery.”

Boocock said encouraging youth is important because there’s a lot of talent in the community that has the potential to grow. “When you have a chance to showcase your work it makes you feel a little bit more worthwhile as an artist,” Boocock said. “And if we have a rapport with them it’s good because everybody influences each other.”

Zozula is working with Cara Zazelenchuk, 17. The pair are heading up MY (Modern Youth) Jasper, a group formed almost three years ago by local high school students that finds ways for young people to express themselves artistically. 

The room wasn’t much to begin with, but a coat of paint, some new spotlights, and some panels and a propping bench made by a JAG member will transform the space. “This is something that would have been hard for us to put together, but JAG’s made it really easy,” Zozula said. 

Eleven artists have submitted about 40 pieces for the exhibit. Their ages range from students in Grade 8 to young adults in their early 20s, though there aren’t any restrictions on who can submit. “There’s no bracket, if you feel like you’re a youth you should put stuff in here,” Zozula said.

She also said she’d like to see a variety of types of artwork, and encourages self-conscious artists to submit their work. “We’re trying to get interesting stuff, because it’s nice to have a mix,” she said. “And it’s a very non-judgmental thing. If you’re unsure of yourself bring it in because you’re your own biggest critic.

“We’ll probably like it.”

Initiatives like this are also an excellent outlet for young people. With “a chance to do something and a place to do it,” kids can achieve something positive, Zozula said.

Last Tuesday, just four days before the opening, the room was still in need of a number of final touches. “Everybody works better under pressure,” Boocock said with a laugh. The exhibit will run through August and September, with a grand opening on Aug. 16 from 7-10 p.m.