By Courtney Almeida

Itchiku Kubota exhibit sets records in Grande Prairie

Feb 12, 2019 | 9:15 AM

‘What do the Mountain Spirits Ponder?’ an exhibition by artist Itchiku Kubota that was opened to the public in November, has set record attendance numbers for the Art Gallery of Grande Prairie.

The AGGP is one of Canada’s largest Free Admission galleries. The non-profit organization governed by a volunteer Board of Directors is elated by the success of the recent exhibit and hopes to be able to re-create effective shows like this for the future.

Jeff Erbach, Executive Director for the AGGP explains, “January was our highest monthly attendance on record.  And for sure this special exhibition will set a new benchmark for shows in our community”. 

February 20 is the final date of the exhibits showcase at the gallery, preparation for its return home to a Museum in Japan is already in the works.

Final attendance numbers are still to come but the show, “may top up to 7,000 visitors,” notes Erbach.

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‘What do the Mountain Spirits Ponder?’, offers a display of 45 kimonos by artist Itchiku Kubota whose life spanned from 1917 to 2003.

Kubota’s work is recognized internationally, due to his unconventional designs and distinct use of colour. The Japanese artist has had his work displayed in exhibits throughout North America and Europe. He helped revive and modernize the “tsujigahana”, a lost textile art form.

The timing of this artistic display is even more notable given 2018 marked the 90th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Canada.

Despite its mid-winter showcase, the show has drawn visitors from outside the Peace Region too. “We’re aware of people coming to see the show from Yellowknife, Vancouver, Saskatchewan and all places in Alberta.  This is despite down-season for typical tourism, so it’s been really impactful for our community.  We’re thrilled,” says Erbach.

The collection has toured museums around the world including stops in Russia, France, Belgium and more.  On its current North American tour schedule, the exhibition will see only 3 stops in Toronto, New York and now Grande Prairie.  Until its arrival in Grande Prairie, the works have not been previously seen in Western Canada.

Due to its strict attention to climate and security controls the AGGP was awarded a “Category A” gallery designation. The title of “Category A” allows for artwork to be considered as preserved and displayed at the highest level of national standard.

The AGGP is open Tuesday through Sunday and is located within the Montrose Cultural Centre. For more information visit the Gallery website at AGGP.CA