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Windsor-Essex County’s arts community is on full display at an east Windsor gallery, currently hosting what could possibly be the largest-ever showcase of local fine art.

The annual local exhibit, Twenty X Twenty, now marking its 17th year, features a record 152 original paintings submitted by 124 Windsor-Essex artists, each painted in a unique style.

“It always amazes me,” said Nancy Johns, owner of Nancy Johns Gallery and Framing located on Wyandotte Street East in Pillette Village. “Every year we get new artists, and this year we actually had 24 or 25 that we’ve never seen before.”

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Last year, 99 artists contributed their work to the collection.

Johns said she loves to witness the growing interest in the event, compared to the first year she launched with only 40 participants.

Each artist was given the opportunity to share their talent and distinctive painting style on a 20-by-20-inch canvas. The colourful and varied collection of canvases now pack the gallery walls from floor to ceiling for visitors to enjoy. 

“It’s all about encouraging artists,” said Johns. “Show us one piece. Let us see what you’re doing. Be part of the art community.

“We asked the artists to show us what they love to paint and tell us what their best work is.”

Johns said that many graduating artists from the University of Windsor were eager to take part this year. She added that several budding artists that picked up painting during the COVID-19 pandemic were now ready to show off their work.

All pieces are available for purchase in-person and on the gallery’s website. Artists can stay informed about the next local exhibit through an email subscription.

Taking a look

The Twenty X Twenty exhibit is on display at Nancy Johns Gallery and Framing (4755 Wyandotte St E) until Oct. 3. The gallery is open Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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