Final Exit show a reflection of the plight faced by Cowichan Valley Arts Council

Themes of life, death and dying — reflecting the arts council’s dire financial condition — are explored in the current Final Exit show downtown.

About 20 artists of various media are displaying an array of pieces symbolizing the dilemma of reality and the potential of the hereafter in the Cowichan Valley Arts Council’s bold exhibit.

Pieces span installations, paintings, collages, sculpture and more.

Barbara Sobon’s existential installation work piece Dissolving Into Blue Sky offers her views about the great beyond and living life to the fullest now.

Meanwhile, CVAC, like many other local groups, is clinging to life by scaling back its expectations in the wake of government grants cuts.

The arts council’s paying its rent month by month through some scarce grant money, donations and other sources while federal arts funds are thin, and provincial gaming cash is hard to get.

CVAC president Judy Brayden signaled CVAC’s salvation could come in a public art gallery, likely downtown, funded through the regional board.

She urged citizen demand for the permanent facility that could continuously stage shows such as Final Exit.

“I want the valley to step up to the plate and recognize local art.

“People don’t put their money where there mouth is as far as buying local art, and pressuring local government to support a public art gallery here.”

Money and other pressures sparked recent conflict among CVAC’s board members, leading to Brayden becoming president.

“We need teamwork,” she said of the internal politics.

Your ticket:

What: Final Exit Art Show

When: Until July 27

Where: Cowichan Valley Arts Council arts centre, 139 Station St., Duncan

Tickets: free. Call 250-746-1633.