they might visit a library. They leaf through the pages of oversized art books and leave with bags of heavy books to study at home. While they are together, snippets of the other aspects of their lives creep into the conversations - their families, their gardens, their hopes and fears. Over the years they have developed a deep friendship, one that is rooted in their art but has branched out far beyond. This unique friendship began in 1994 in a clay working class at Capilano College. While most of the students were producing functional pieces, Perkins and Vicencio were more inclined to the abstract. They recognized in each other a renegade spirit and, at the end of the semester, they continued the relationship embarking on a program of self-education. Together they explored new techniques and ideas, each contributing her o w n wealth of artistic knowledge. Vicencio had already worked extensively in clay and studied painting in England. During her years in London, she visited many of the great European art galleries, delighting in the works of the artistic masters of the past. Perkins had studied fabric art and her strength was in design, especially for batik. These diverse backgrounds gave them much to share. Although Perkins and Vicencio seldom create a sculpture together, they frequently visit each other's studios to offer praise or criticism or friendly suggestions. There is a wonderful balance in their relationship. Vicencio's fiery personality spurs them on while Perkins' more earthy nature keeps them grounded. Their artistic careers, as well as their personal lives, have become symbiotically intertwined. They support and encourage each other in many ways, including collaborating on two or three shows each year. This summei, they will be participating in the Harmony Arts Festival Studio Tour o n August 3rd. Visit them between 10 a n d 5 at 9 8 6 Beachview Drive in Deep Cove. In September, Perkins w i l l have a solo exhibition of paintings and sculpture at the Blackberry Gallery in Port Moody. P c i c i f i c The all new 2003 Honda Element for all your motorin? needs, come and see our lar?e selection of Pew Hondas and Previously Owned Used Cars and Trucks "Active Lifestyle Vehicle" 816 Automall Drive, North Vancouver Sales & Leasing: 604 984 0331 Parts: 604 9871011 Service: 604 987 4618 www.pacific-honda.com H O N D A August 1 - 1 0 , 2003 Celebrate Community, Celebrate Art at John Lawson Park and other seaside venues in West Vancouver Presented by O D L U M B R O W N w e s t V a n c o u v e r www. harmonyarts. net July | August