Submitted. It’s your last chance to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime art exhibit. The late William Allister’s (1919-2008) entire International Collection will be displayed at Fraser Valley Regional Library’s Ladner Pioneer location (4683 – 51st Street, Delta) only until Tuesday, September 3, 2013. The collection – 19 large acrylic on canvas paintings valued at nearly $160,000 – was gifted to FVRL by the acclaimed Canadian artist’s estate.
Allister was a Delta resident and an avid library customer. FVRL’s Tsawwassen location was where he found his inspiration to paint the International Collection. He spent many hours at his library enjoying the books and completing research for his paintings. Near the end of his life he discussed his wish with his wife that the paintings be accessible to the community.
“William took so much joy in his creative expression that he wanted ‘everyone’ to see it, and what better place than at his library to make his art available to people of all ages and walks of life,” says his widow, Mona Allister. The collection features colourful imaginative renderings and symbols highlighting the interconnection of cultures throughout history.
After the exhibit closes, the International Collection paintings will be dispersed to various FVRL locations, where they will be displayed permanently so that they can inspire and enrich library visitors for years to come – just as Allister wished.