The latest exhibit at the Portage and District Arts Centre held its official opening last night.

"New Paintings" features works by the Group of 8 Artist Salon consisting of six artists from Winnipeg, and two from Brandon.

Pat McCullough's part of the group, and says while they work independently, they stay connected.

"We get together once a month. We meet in each of our homes -- we take turns -- and we bring the work that we've been working on. We critique each others' work. we share ideas, we study about art  together. Once or twice a year we do an art retreat together, so we're a support group, not only in terms of art, but much broader. We've become very close friends over the years."
 
Helen Maxime Stein's work is also part of the exhibit. she's excited to showcase her art, which focuses on women.

"And it's all about women, and our special friendships that sustain us through everything. And even if our friendships are ignored for many years, they can just be brought to life with just the slightest nudge."

The exhibit will be at PDAC until June 25th.