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The Bill Epp Show - Part 1 / 3 - Review

Posted: December 19, 2006
"The Bill Epp Show" as a title seemed more to conjure up the notion of a pop game show than an art exhibition of an important Saskatchewan artist. But, after viewing the selected work amidst the crowd at the show's Chapel Gallery opening the title seemed apt. The impact of seeing the collection together seemed to animate the guests and transport them. The Lady of Shalott The placement of the major pieces drew you in a thoughtful path along what many have already testified to have been a thoughtful and rewarding career. The quality of the work spoke to Epp's keen sense of observation. He has captured the emotion in the common gestures of the life size figures and the attention to the delicate textures in the surrounding supports. Goat Susie The playful pieces interspersed with the serious work reflected the balance Epp maintained between his art and his strong sense of community, the importance he placed on human relationships. To see this collection of work made not as commissions but by his own passion and vision reinforced all the statements Epp's family, friends and former students repeated throughout the afternoon about his drive to create and his ability to connect. Juju Woman is African for Voodoo Marilyn Woman Seated A niece of Epp's told me that being among his work felt comfortable, as it had spending time with the man himself. She remembered how even when she was very young "Uncle Bill" would make all the children feel so important. Always engaging them in conversation about what they were doing at the time, asking questions and encouraging them in a sincere and companionable way". Similar statements were made by many of his former students. The lyrical beauty of "The Lady of Shallot", placed on the gallery dais, held a certain reverence. The genius in its concept gave it a commanding presence. This exhibition invites contemplation and discussion for all viewers. Those not familiar with Epp's work, or perhaps only familiar with his public works will see a collection of well crafted pieces by a master of form that seems to have cast a human quality within them. Girl on a Swing Sarah Relief And for the many people whose lives connected with Bill Epp's, they may find as Sarah Apseth did, "the pleasure in remembering that their friend, teacher and mentor was also a very good artist!" Many found watching the 1991 Aurora Video Production, The Art of Bill Epp quite emotional, hearing him talk, seeing him work. As Bill recounted how art is a sign that someone has been there and that is what he would like to do as an artist, it was made apparent by gazing across the gallery that he has indeed left his mark. He has met his goal and his art reminds us that "he's been here." Copyright © 2006 Holly Hildebrand Photography by Grant Kernan Holly Hildebrand is a mixed media artist and curator living in North Battleford, Saskatchewan.