The works of Mission artist Nancy Arcand will be on display at the Rock Family Gallery located inside the Mission Arts Centre (33529 First Ave.) from March 2-20.
The exhibition – Spirit Animal Totems: The Spirit Within – will be open to the public during regular gallery hours, Tuesday to Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.
“In creating this solo exhibition, The Spirit Within, I wanted to explore the many animals that connect with our subconscious and reflect our innermost thoughts, dreams, desires, and fears, thus forming a deep connection with us,” explained Arcand.
She said nature has always inspired her, the “perfection, the complexity and the beauty,” but what inspires her more are the creatures that live within nature.
“Have you ever felt drawn to a specific animal? Seen it over and over again? Caught one just out of the corner of your eye, focused on it and thought “Ahhh there you are?” she asked.
“As with me, this has probably happened to you over and over again.”
Many years ago, Arcand says she had a connection with whales, and most recently with elephants.
“I’ve always had a connection to dogs, but each time an animal comes into my life, I am humbled by that experience, grateful for the connection and wiser for the guidance.”
She believes that there are animals associated with everyone, the spirit of the animal guides people through different phases of their lives.
“You may have one main power animal, or you could have many throughout your lifetime, but each interaction is significant,” she said.
