Rhizomes on exhibit

BY RAFFY BOUDJIKANIAN

raffy.boudjikanian@transcontinental.ca

A rhizome, the stem of a plant that sends out roots and shoots from its nodes, is usually found underground, but as of today you will be able to see some on the walls of Galerie de la Ville in Dollard des Ormeaux.

That is because Rhyzomes, an exhibition by media artist Melanie Matthews, will have its vernissage tonight. A series of acrylic paintings that tie into the theme of plants, roots and growth, the 25 works mark the first time that Matthews is exhibiting any painting work.

"People know her as this artist who works with mold and acrylic, but they've never seen her paintings," said the gallery's curator-director Claudine Ascher.

As per usual for the gallery's submission guidelines, any artists wishing to have their work exhibited were invited to apply about a year ago, Ascher said, and Matthew's work caught her eye because of its uniqueness. "I like to give the artist a chance to produce new work," said Ascher on the reason for choosing her exhibitions a year in advance.

Ascher said the interconnectedness of all the different paintings on display was remarkable, and made Matthews' work that much more versatile. "In 20 years, she might have a million of these," Ascher laughed.

Melanie Matthews has a degree in fine arts from Concordia University and teaches at various arts centres across Montreal Island, including Dollard Civic Centre. Her exhibition will run until Feb. 10.