Without art, the world would be a horribly dark place to live, according to two Oliver teens.
Paige Riley and Madelyn Bjornson are only 15 and 14, respectively, but they know how influential art is.
This was apparent during the recent “Summer of the Okanagan Children’s Art Show” at Quail’s Nest Arts Centre.
Riley organized the show with the help of Bjornson.
“I really think art for children is important. It gives them a chance to express themselves,” Riley said.
The show highlighted the works of approximately 20 local youth from age 3 to 16.
“Kids’ art is all different, and I love seeing what they are trying to express,” said Riley.
Her desire is to be an accomplished artist some day.
She often finds herself painting when she is stressed out; this is her way of getting it out of her system. For example, if something at school bothers her, she will pick up a brush and start painting, using bright colours to boost her mood.
Bjornson admitted that she has never been artistic but loves to sit down and paint.
“You don’t have to be an amazing artist (to do that).”
She doesn’t like to show people her art, but stated that the world would be a dark, angry place without this form of expression.
“I feel the world wouldn’t be as great (without art). Art is a part of our life, but some people don’t think so.”
Bjornson stated that the world is based off art, noting that the chairs in your home represent art, and the buildings people frequent are a form of art.
Riley agreed, saying that a simple dinner plate is a work of art.
“Without art we wouldn’t know what our historical figures looked like. We wouldn’t know what they wore a thousand years ago.”
