Vancouver, BC CANADA – Sept 12, 2022 - Artists for Conservation is pleased to announce the awarding of its first Robert and Sharon Butler Art Exploration Grant to AFC Signature Member, Vicky Earle, of Vancouver, BC.
The $5,000 grant was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact it is having on the artist community. AFC Signature Member, Rob Butler and wife Sharon Butler - also an accomplished artist - proposed establishing a pilot grant concept, which would provide financial support for the artistic exploration of human and nature interaction.
Vicky's proposal, titled "Metro Vancouver Naturehood Mandalas" has a goal of highlighting nature’s interconnectedness while bringing attention to local endangered species. To this end, Vicky proposed creating four 3’x 3’ colour nature mandalas inspired by Metro Vancouver naturehoods: forest, river, wetland, and marine. Each mandala will provide a snapshot of biodiversity in that ecosystem and a powerful sense of that place.
"Our communities include not just human residents, but all species that reside beside us. These 'naturehoods' hold
astonishing biodiversity that thrives, regardless of the human condition.", Vicky asserts, adding "Mandalas are symbols of wholeness, characterized by concentric layers of shapes and images. They are tools to focus attention and contemplation. Creating nature mandala art is healing and transformative and helps people regain their sense of self by reconnecting with the natural environment."
As part of the project, Vicky will be working to partner with local conservation organizations to locate and document species at risk. The project will result in an exhibit and printed postcard series featuring the species, to be freely distributed, inviting connections to the artwork, the creative process, and AFC.
Vicky will be formally recognized for the award during AFC’s upcoming Exhibit Opening & Awards Reception on the evening of September 22 at VanDusen Botanical Garden. The ticketed event marks the opening day of the 12th Artists for Conservation Festival, which runs through September 25 at VanDusen. For more information, visit the following links: