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Mona Lisa gives local artists venue to showcase work
By Simon Fuller
Diners at a popular Winnipeg eatery can enjoy a side of artwork with their supper.
Every month, one or two Manitoba artists display their work at Mona Lisa Ristorante Italiano on Corydon Avenue.
And if a painting catches the eye of a discerning diner, they are invited to buy it.
For any artwork sold, the restaurant retains 10% of the sale, which goes to student programming at the St. Boniface-based, non-profit Forum Art Institute.
Mona Lisa's owner Joe Grande — a passionate supporter of the local arts scene since his art school days at the University of Manitoba — originally showed his own artwork at the restaurant.
"Art should be part of everyday life, as we need more than the hustle and bustle of paying the bills," said Grande, who lives in Tuxedo.
"Art should not just be in galleries and museums, but in community places like churches and restaurants."
On the artistic menu until Jan. 8 are Debbie Lawson and Karen Wardle.
Lawson, a self-taught artist who retired last year after working in payroll for Air Canada, is inspired and influenced by the majesty of Assiniboine Park.
"I'm there a lot — summer, fall and winter. I enjoy the seasons and what they inspire in me," said Lawson, who lives in Charleswood.
"I really like to draw snow on benches and pathways. The more colour contrast there is, the better."
When Lawson used to take the bus home from work, she would get off near the park and walk the rest of the way.
"It's a relaxing and inspiring place and it would clear my head after a day at work. It would give me a different state of mind," she said.
Lawson is grateful to Grande for giving local artists a venue to showcase their work and believes the paintings are good for business.
"I think the artwork draws people to the restaurant. Some people in Winnipeg seem to want to buy mass-produced art, which means the guy down the street is going to have the same piece as you. Mona Lisa gives people the opportunity to see unique art."
Wardle, a full-time artist who lives outside the city, is also happy for the opportunity.
"Artists don't necessarily have a venue to show their work, and it's a very competitive scene, so this is fantastic for artists in Winnipeg," Wardle said.
For more information, or to buy a painting, email monalisa@shawbiz.ca until Jan. 8. After that, email dlawson@mymts.net or visit www.karenwardle.com.
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