Gerry Marchand opening reception

It's not a surprise, Salmon Arm folks don't come out in droves to an opening reception for an out-of-town artist.  However, the few who did come to the June 5 opening of Gerry Marchand's "In Search of Light" (he's from Vernon) were the ones who genuinely wanted to be there.  First, some lovely words by Louise Wallace - her business Mediability is the sponsor of the show.  She said that as her high-school art teacher in North Bay, Ontario (quite a coincidence, hey?) Gerry emphasized creativity over a specific talent in drawing or painting. Seeing how creative she is in her web design business, it's clear that it was a gift for her.  A couple of other former students came, ones who'd never attended an opening before.  One of them ended up singing old songs with the other crooners, leaning in to read Tom Brighouse's score as he played the Kuwai with soul and charm.  A few others had seen one or two of Gerry's works elsewhere and felt a certain draw to come and see this show.  Gerry and his wife, Marie, are lovely people, easy to talk to.  They were delighted with the reception.  Gerry will be back on June 18 to talk at "Coffee Break" at 2:30pm.