BRANDI DOUCETT
LIFE REPORTER

An art exhibit opening Thursday offers a rare combination of art and fitness.

The exhibit moves in March 4 and runs a week. (Courtesy)

Featuring pieces by Seattle-based artist Will Doran, the exhibit focuses on illustrating the benefits and beauty of yoga through artistic expression.
The exhibit is hosted by students in an event management class.
Business administration student Russel Axford, 22, said  the class decided to display artwork featuring yoga because they believe in the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
“We wanted to be able to educate other students and hopefully encourage students to gain an interest in a healthy lifestyle,” he said.
Certain pieces of Doran’s art were picked because of their potential to teach students about yoga, said Axford.
The artwork is accompanied by descriptions explaining the physical benefits associated with each yoga pose.
“Some poses might be good for balance, while others may focus on building strength,” said Axford.
Doran said he became interested in blending yoga with his other passion, painting and expressive art, after he become a yoga student over 10 years ago.
“I’m a big believer that yoga is a very integrative art form. It’s more than just a physical experience,” said Doran.
Humber yoga instructor Nathania Bron said there are countless benefits to practicing yoga and hopes the art exhibit will bring more awareness to the discipline.
“Physically speaking, yoga increases flexibility, strength, and control. But it also stimulates organs so they function more effectively,” said Bron. “Mentally, it reduces stress and increases your ability to focus your mind on one task. In yoga, it’s breathing, but you can take that focus and apply it to any aspect of your life.”
Students attending the exhibit can look forward to free admission, live entertainment and prizes.
The exhibit opens March 4 at the Guelph-Humber art gallery at 5:30 p.m. and runs until March 12.