Big Rapids’ Artworks West Michigan hosts The Bear exhibit

BIG RAPIDS — Artworks’ new exhibit is an exploration of mankind’s relationship with nature.

The Bear Exhibit, slated to run from April 15 to May 31, is a “call to artist” exhibit with over 20 artists submitting work.

Curator Roxanne Cullen illuminates the inspiration behind the exhibit, Andrew Krivak’s novel The Bear.

“The story is about the last two humans on Earth, a father and his daughter. A talking bear helps her to survive. A lot of the legends and stories that he had told her about the animals and the way the animals survived in nature come to life,” she said.

The winners of a contest for the best submission will be announced at a reception at 1 p.m. April 21 at Artworks, 106 N. Michigan Ave..

The exhibit features an array of interpretations, ranging from paintings to fiber arts, all centered around the themes of survival, nature and the enduring bond between humans and wildlife.

Cullen expresses anticipation for the artists’ responses, noting the secretive nature of their creations and the diverse mediums employed.

“Some people didn’t like the book, which is interesting. There may very well be bears; I would assume there would be. It could also be some natural scenes, probably, and we’ve got a variety of mediums, not all painting,” she said. 

The exhibit not only showcases artistic interpretations but also delves into the cultural significance of bears. 

Speakers such as Pete Kailing from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Mike McCreery from the Chippewa tribe will explore the role of bears in local ecosystems and indigenous cultures. Kailing will speak at noon May 3, and McCreery will speak at noon May 17.

Additionally, the exhibit aims to raise awareness and support for the General Federation of Women’s Clubs teddy bear collection initiative, which benefits foster children in need of comfort during challenging times.

Highlighting the exhibit’s multidimensional approach, Cullen mentions supplementary displays featuring a live webcam of a bear visiting a local household and an homage to historical figure Spikehorn Meyer, who lived alongside bears in the 1950s. 

Cullen reflected on the messages of Krivak’s novel.

“I found the book hopeful. Nature will survive, and it takes a very long time,” she said.

As visitors absorb The Bear exhibit, they are invited to explore the artistic interpretations and the ecological and cultural connections embodied by these majestic creatures. 

Whether through the strokes of a paintbrush or the intricacies of fiber art, each piece contributes to a reflection on humanity’s place in the natural world.

The exhibit is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday.