Clarence Chong a Retrospective: “Painted Girls – Imagined Histories”

Clarence Chong, maternal grandfather to Erika MacNeil, arrived in Canada with an unknown birthdate and lineage. His grade school teacher, known to MacNeil as Granny Abel, recognized his talent and sent him to art school through a tunnel from Windsor to Detroit across the border when he came of age.

The works are a collection of portraits from Chong’s studies as an art student recently discovered in a tube portfolio in Erika MacNeil’s basement. Erika, local Newmarket resident, librarian at Rogers Public school, who runs open mics, a book club and writing workshops pays tribute to her grandfather, Clarence; this exhibit celebrates the life and works of Clarence in recognition of MacNeil’s rich family history.

Artists and poets will be in attendance to draw and write in response to the portraiture, accompanied by live music. All welcome.