You can interact with and help grow this new art exhibit

Tucked away in Rotary Centre for the Arts’ Alternator Gallery is an installation created from many carefully interwoven strands of yarn, and it’s still evolving as more visitors come to view it.

‘Yarnlandia’ is the culmination of works done by local artist Cameron Gelderman, as well as the portions that have been added by gallery patrons whom Gelderman provides with yarn and encourages to make additions to a section.

“What I try to do is take away from the individuality of each piece,” Gelderman told Kelowna10. “And [instead] have them all work together connected to be an installment that kind of engulfs the individual who enters in a world that's a little bit unique and interesting, full of colour and texture and feel.”

He had gotten into the art of yarn tying as a way to cope with anxiety and depression, as he struggled to navigate the wildness of the world.

It began with a coffee table that had a missing glass panel, which he made to be functional again by wrapping it with yarn. To him, it was an incredibly cathartic experience.

“I usually use it as a tool to think, ponder, engage with the thoughts and emotions that I find myself avoiding or neglecting,” he explained.

Gelderman said he doesn’t go into a piece with a clear vision in mind of how it will turn out, but rather uses his artistic prowess to be a catalyst for what will eventually form.

The exhibition of his art has provided him with insight from visitors that he considers invaluable.

“It’s been really rewarding, receiving feedback and engaging with individuals who have had the opportunity to come and check it out,” he said. “They’ve been really encouraging and kind with their words, about how much they’ve enjoyed the space and the artwork. It’s been a door opening experience for me.”

When asked what he would like to accomplish in his artistic career, the answer was rather simple.

“In some sense, I seek to be the greatest artist in the world, at least the greatest I can be,” Gelderman mused. “I feel like [with] every piece I'm growing and learning a little bit and I'm excited to see where it'll go and what it'll do.”

Geldermans installation will be able to be viewed and interacted with until December 16th, for more info, click here.