WHAT'S UP
At A Mano Libera Gallery in St. Catharines, art isn’t merely hung on the walls, it is actually a part of them.
Glass works created by a celebrated Niagara artist just happen to be the very cornerstone upon which it was built, thanks to a serendipitous unravelling of events that led to the founding of the region’s newest visual arts venue.
Until last fall, the building at 150 Ontario St., in St. Catharines, housed the medical offices of Dr. Santina Malaguti, a physician who now owns the contemporary gallery. Long ago, her friend, artist Heinz Gaugel—celebrated for his mural works in the region—built the two colourful glass walls for her as a gift.
When it became time to relocate her practice to an expanded location, Malaguti was conflicted by the prospect of leaving Gaugel’s pieces behind. Instead of letting go of the treasures, she came up with a better idea: Build a gallery around them.
Although opening an art gallery may seem like an unlikely project for a doctor with a roster of 3,500 patients, Malaguti happens to be a talented artist herself. She is known for her commissioned pieces as well as for offering lessons to those who could benefit from the healing aspect of the medium.
And so A Mano Libera, which translates into “free hand” in Italian, was born. Today, the glass walls provide a stunning backdrop for the showcase of regional talent and paintings by Malaguti herself shock the white walls with vibrant shades.
Through its very existence, this little gallery is already poised to have a big impact on Niagara’s art scene. Featuring the works of both established and up-and-coming local artists is part of Malaguti’s vision. Some believe it could be a remedy to the region’s ailing art scene, where there are limited opportunities for local talent.
“My hope is that this will be a stepping off point for local artists,” says Malaguti. “Also, I hope that this will help other galleries in the area gain momentum.”
Through to July 26 the gallery will be showcasing the talents of award-winning, internationally-recognized painter Agnes Rathonyi and her son, photographer Attila Rathonyi. Other exhibits on the horizon include the works of artists Duncan MacDonald (starting August 8) and Bill Ralph (in September).
A Mano Libera gallery is open to the public Saturdays and Sundays, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and by appointment. Exhibitors are selected by a committee of professional artists. For more information call 905-641-1983 or visit www.amanoliberagallery.com.
