Daniel Liebe scope's out Abbotsford's latest Star Was exhibition.Ever since its 1976 theatrical release, the Star Wars franchise has inspired the imaginations of millions. Some forget their fascination with the series, while others remain committed fans. And some express their passion through original forms. Meet Chris Woods, a Chilliwack artist, and life-long fan of the original Star Wars Trilogy. Within the recent days, he's opened his latest exhibition, Sandstorm, at the Reach Gallery. Within the exhibition's first week of opening, Sandstorm has attracted many local and distant visitors."What you see at the Reach … is about seven months of work," said Woods. However, he also makes note that the total amount of preparation for this exhibition took roughly two years. Asked why he took so much of his time to prepare for this exhibit, he responded, "It's probably the closest thing I have to a spiritual practice." If one looks through history books, you'll see that every artist perfects his greatest masterpieces through the soul, heart, and mind. Given that Star Wars has been one of the most profound statements in Woods' life, Sandstorm could well be his greatest masterpiece.What makes Sandstorm so different is that it's told from a different perspective. Most people tell an epic story through the eyes of a protagonist. However, Woods believes the contrary. There's beauty in everyone, regardless of a tragedy or not. That's why he chose to paint his pieces of art through the perspective lens of Darth Vader. "I'm trying to make art with a capital A," said Woods. Sandstorm is clear representation of what art is meant to be – different with its own atmosphere of confidence and individuality. Head over to the Abbotsford Reach Art Gallery and check out Sandstorm, or any of the other five exhibitions on display right now.
Daniel Liebe is a Grade 12 Robert Bateman student contributor.
