The Healing
Presented by the Art Writers Ghost Collective
Opening Reception: Saturday, October 18, 1–3 pm
The Pearl Ellis Gallery presents The Healing, a deeply personal and collaborative exhibition that explores art’s ability to mend, unite, and transform. Presented by the Art Writers Ghost Collective, the show runs from October 14 to November 8, with an opening reception on Saturday, October 18 from 1–3 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend and meet the artists.
Born out of Courtenay artist Josh Klassen’s response to a lymphoma diagnosis in 2024, The Healing began as a simple birthday painting party and evolved into a recurring Sunday gathering of friends and artists. These gatherings became a creative sanctuary - an act of shared expression, connection, and healing. From this experience emerged the Art Writers Ghost Collective, whose members have spent a year creating a series of collaborative paintings that embody their collective spirit.
Each large-scale work in the exhibition was created using upcycled canvases through a process of abstraction, rotation, and shared detailing. The result is a vibrant and evolving collection that reflects themes of trust, non-attachment, and the power of collaboration.
Visitors can look forward to 16 paintings that chronicle the group’s year-long journey, as well as an interactive art experience. During the opening reception, guests will have the opportunity to participate in a live collective painting session led by the artists. This evolving piece will remain on display throughout the show, inviting continued public contributions. The reception will also feature an experimental soundscape performance by Nate Schmold, adding a unique sensory dimension to the event.
The Healing celebrates the ways art can build resilience, foster community, and illuminate the human experience. It is a testament to creativity’s role in helping us find connection - and hope - even in life’s most challenging moments.
