How can an artist represent and honour beloved literature through art?

This is the question that motivated Island artist Jenni Zelin’s latest solo show, Well
Read: Literature Transformed.

Paying tribute to literature ranging from children’s picture books and young adult novels to classic and contemporary literature, nonfiction and stage text, Zelin’s show also reflects her work in multiple media, including pieces in acrylic, ink, felt, clay, ceramics, found materials, and comic strip art. One of the pieces serves as a miniature and
functioning lending library offering books to the public to borrow, trade, or read during gallery hours.

”What started as a multi-media artistic homage to the books I’ve loved throughout my life soon morphed into an homage to some of the artists and great works of art I’ve loved as well,” says Zelin.

In Well Read, Winnie the Pooh, A Wrinkle in Time and Catch-22 mix with Edward Gorey, Keith Haring and Picasso.

Opening night is highlighted by a special event in Drag Queen Story Time with Whatshername. This creation of Nicholas Whalen, an emerging Art Queen, uses self-
made costumery and provocatively curated performance to take drag out of its traditional contexts and into the art world. The opening also kicks off a two-week silent auction of many of Zelin’s art pieces from the show, with the proceeds being donated to the Confederation Centre Public Library.

Confederation Centre librarian Roseanne Gauthier is delighted that Zelin is dedicating
her show to the library, saying, “We’re thrilled to know that Jenni considers the Confederation Centre Public Library her second home, and we’re so grateful she has offered to donate the proceeds of her art show to support the free programming CCPL offers to people of all ages and from all walks of life.”

Well Read: Literature Transformed runs from October 3-14 at The Gallery at The Guild. Please note that the show features some mature content.