New Moncton gallery adds to downtown art scene

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Kathryn Basham has a love of pottery and ceramics, but after moving from Kentucky to Moncton 13 years ago, her art fell to the wayside.

Eventually, she came to the realization she missed creating things. Her first job when she was a teenager was working for a production potter in Kentucky.

“It’s time to get back to what I’m passionate about,” she had said.

She found connections in the art community, and started doing pottery at the Clayspace on Mountain Road, though she wanted somewhere to sell her work.

Through her career in marketing, Basham befriended photographer Harrison Burton, who was also looking to showcase his work, and the idea of opening a gallery was born.

Also through marketing, she learned that developer John Lafford had a private collection of art he wanted to show and sell. He had openings for commercial space in his Three Sisters towers in downtown Moncton, and she decided it would be a good spot for her gallery.

“One of the reasons I chose this location is because there is so much growth here,” she said, alluding to the restaurants, hotels, and apartment buildings popping up in the downtown core.

Late last month, Basham celebrated the opening of Bright & Brine Fine Art Gallery. Harrison’s aerial photography and some Cape Dorset Inuit sculptures were among the art on display for the opening.

“Being able to see his images this large with John’s work and being excited about showcasing my own ceramics, it feels like a totally new chapter in life that I am thrilled about,” she said.

She hopes to start showing her own ceramic work this summer.

This year marked the 150th anniversary of the Kentucky Derby, also known as the Run for the Roses. To commemorate the event from her home state she made 150 clay roses, which will be on display in the gallery.

When asked what kind of art she would like to display, Basham said she wanted to start with local artists, and expand to other Canadian artists from outside the province. She also wanted to give a opportunity for private collectors to show and sell their pieces.

“I think it would be great to showcase some new people,” she said, noting she is hoping to have rotations for exhibits.

Basham hopes her space will add to the city’s art scene. The gallery will have free admission, so everyone can come in to appreciate the art, as well as purchase it. In addition, she hopes to host events like art exhibitions, or rentals for private events.

Another concept she would like to introduce is a rental program for art, so businesses can rent art pieces, either as a temporary fixture in an office, or to see if it is a good fit to purchase for their space.