Dion Smith-Dokkie | sunbeams softer forever
June 16, 2023 - June 24, 2023
Description
The Fort Gallery is pleased to present Dion Smith-Dokkie’s new exhibition sunbeams softer forever at Swallowfield Farm’s striking, contemporary barn on traditional Stó:lō territory in so-called Langley. A recent graduate of UBC’s MFA in Visual Arts program, Smith-Dokkie’s wide-ranging multimedia practice investigates mediation, communication and the body.
This highly personal body of work, begun during the intense isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic and responding to experiences of mental illness and addiction, was Smith-Dokkie’s attempt to create a space of escapist healing through an intimate and quasi-erotic relation to materials.
Smith-Dokkie’s lush and sensuous abstract drawings, textile works and videos immerse viewers in a kaleidoscopic tumble of pastel colours and shimmering surfaces. Bedazzled with iridescent beads and gems the works are suspended throughout the sunlit barn, wrapping viewers in Smith-Dokkie’s sun-drenched daydream. His works are a testament to queer resilience and the power of making space for joy and healing.
sunbeams softer forever runs from June 16-24 at Swallowfield Farm, 7296 Telegraph Trail Langley, BC. The exhibition will be activated by a series of free, public events throughout the ten day run:
OPENING RECEPTION: Fri. June 16, 7:00pm
WORKSHOP: Sun. June 18, 2:00pm, RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/634438601937
ARTIST TALK + TOUR: Sat. June 24, 2:00pm
EXHIBITION HOURS:
June 17-18 & 24, 12-5pm
June 19-23 By appointment, email fortgallery@hotmail.com to book.
Fort Gallery gratefully acknowledges the support of the Canada Council for the Arts.