Calgary gallery finds space for William Shatner

William Shatner has takenon a new role, asmuse to artists who created 76 works based on the actor forCalgary's Uppercase Gallery.

The Canadian-born Shatner is best known for his role as Capt. James Kirk, commander of the U.S.S. Enterprise in the Star Trek series. But he's also playeda tough sergeant in the T.J. Hooker crime show, sold cereal, and kepthimself in focus through the process.

"Every artist has their muse,"he said in a message posted on the gallery's website. "Who am I to stand in the way of all these fine artists and artisans who want to use my lumpy, aging face for inspiration?

"Some creators love a great sunset; some have in mind my bloodshot eyes. Nevertheless, out of awe, amusement or pity, you should come and see this unique show."

The gallery's self-proclaimed mastermind, Janine Vangool, came up with the idea of a Shatner show after listening to the actor's CD while driving across Canada.

New and established artists from across the continent contributed works.

The resultsinclude a bust of Shatner made frommore than9,000 Lego pieces, Shatner as Bonhomme,Shatner portraits, Shatner driving the last spike and Shatner as Kirkembraced bya Gorn, a reptilian humanoid space creature.

"It's kind of about him as the centre of the universe," said artist Katie Radke.

There are 76 works on view, one for each year of Shatner's age.

The show runs until the end of August.