Gallery Vertigo opens its main October exhibition Ubuntu 5, featuring the works by five Okanagan artists: Lois Campbell, Bonnie Jackson, Holly Smith, Marry Stebbins, and the late Sandy Sasges.

“Ubuntu,” an ancient African term now widely used in South Africa, literally translates as “I am what I am because of who we all are.” It is about community, our interdependence, our humanity. In the words of Desmond Tutu, “We belong in a bundle of life.” Six years ago we came together, a group of 5 women artists, creating an exhibition celebrating humanity.

For all of us, this has been influenced by our travel to many areas of the world. We have a wide variety of styles and media, including painting in acrylic, watercolour, oil, plus mixed media, pastel, graphic, and clay.

Now, in 2024, we come together again, this time not only to celebrate the oneness of humanity but to expand our theme to include our connection to all that is. We live because everything else does. A First Nations prayer uses the term “All my relations.” We are one, not only with our human relations, but all life and beyond, the wind, grass, rock, and stars.

Sandi Sasges was an integral part of our Ubuntu 5. Sadly she passed away this year in March. Not only was she an amazing artist, she had an energy that was contagious. She was ever positive, ever one to find humour in any situation, ever one to encourage others on their artistic journey. We come together again, to honour her. This show is dedicated to her memory and to her spirit that is forever with us.

Opening Reception will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024 from 6:00 – 8:00pm.  Light refreshments will be offered.