by Grady Mitchell |  Ayden Gallery (88 West Pender) will offer an escape from Vancouver’s dreary winter this Friday night with the opening reception of its newest show, Paradise. Inspired by a recent trip to Maui, curator Colin Moore (above) asked fellow artists Luis Lopa, Aaron Moran, Russell Leng, and Ben Knight for their abstract interpretations of paradise.

While each artist has developed their own signature style – Luis lives in The Philippines and incorporates that culture into his work, for example, while Ben specializes in hand-painted signage – the vibrant palettes and laid back atmosphere will channel palm-tree breezes and crashing surf. To ensure the feeling, Colin is transforming the gallery into a temporary slice of beachfront, complete with tropical plants, a hammock, and approximately 25 pounds of tropical Skittles (complimentary!).

The reception starts at 7pm and the show – a welcome hint of spring to get us through the last grips of winter – will be up through the end of March.