A unique fundraising opportunity for the NVCAC

 

An enthusiastic supporter has offered to match every dollar donated to the NVCAC, up to a total of $2000.   This is a unique opportunity to double down on our donations, so let’s get that extra $2000.  We are half way there already. Just click  “Donate Now”  and make it so! 

 

Art Walk is On ~ Get walkin'

Art Walk is happening!

Linda Bachman  

 

Art Walk Artist #23 is Linda Bachman from Williams Lake. We are happy to feature a regional artist in our Art Walk, and, in return, Williams Lake will host a few of our Art Walk Artists in August, should wildfires not intervene.

 

I asked Linda a few questions about her process:

“Each canvas is unique in how it is applicable to what inspired me to paint. I have a start visual of what I want to paint, but no idea what the outcome will be until it goes through the freedom of my interpretations and is ready to sign. Nature is the biggest draw of inspiration and then any given theme requested will generate a creative idea after some background research. There is the period of thought process of creating in my own time then the rush for any deadline I have to finish my work. Every artist, old or new has given me renewed inspiration to try new ideas and the motivation momentum. I have no rules in what or how I paint a canvas or project, giving me the best of satisfaction upon completion.”

 

Linda’s work is located at Home Hardware, 1701 Voght Street, open Monday to Saturday 9-6, Sunday 10- 3.

 

We hope you are enjoying #ArtWalkMerritt! Keep on walking!

 

Chelsea Werrun, President

Gale Simpson

 

Art Walk Artist #2 is Gale Simpson, featured in the front lobby of the Merritt Desert Inn, 2350 Voght Street, open daily, 7 am - 9 pm.

 

I checked out her work recently and loved the colours and textures. I was pleased to see that one of her pieces had recently sold! If you haven’t had the chance to see her work on display I highly recommend it!

 

I asked Gale what inspires her work:

“I am inspired by the shapes and colours, the feel and smells in nature.”

 

I also asked who one her favourite artists is, and it is local Merrittonian, Shirley Reynolds, “[as she] has a beautiful use of bold colour and bold brush strokes that I love.”

 

Gale’s technique is very fluid. “I don't really have a conscious technique. I move around the canvas to what catches my eye. The subject is more important to me - I have to love what I am  painting. I paint what I feel at the time, no technique.”

 

Finally, I asked about the importance of Art in society:

“All art helps us in our personal development. Creativity is important in all parts of our world.”

 

I have been enjoying learning more about the artists and their process. and I hope you have, too! While you’re out walking the walk, don’t forget to share a photo with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and hashtag, too:

#nvcac #artwalkmerritt #exploremerritt!

 

See you around the Art Walk!

 

 

Chelsea Werrun,  President

Michelle Lonsdale

 

Michelle Lonsdale is Art Walk Artist #15, located at Earthwalker Spiritual Shop, 2090 Granite Avenue, open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am - 5 pm. Michelle is new to Art Walk and was one of the first artists to sign up.  She recently graduated from Thomson Rivers University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Her current focus is acrylics on canvas that have a mystical, dreamlike or surrealist quality, an excellent fit for Earthwalker Spiritual Shop.

 

Michelle was on location for a Meet the Artist Day Friday July 14th from 10am - 5pm at Earthwalker Spiritual Shop, 2090 Granite Ave.

 

I asked Michelle about her process:

 

Q: What inspires your work?

A: I am inspired by and develop themes based on childhood, imagination, and mythology. I like to feel like there is some magic still left in the world, and I can add to that through my work.

 

Q: Are there any new projects you’re working on for next year?

A: I acquired a large set of tattoo supplies, so I think this year I will be doing a lot of practice on fake skin and other mediums. I don’t know if I want to become a tattoo artist, (I might never work up to a human canvas!), but I would like to develop the skill, regardless.

 

Q: Where does your inspiration come from when you are working on a piece?

A: Weird thoughts, books, media, curiosities. When I was in university I used to doodle in margins a lot during lectures and build larger works based on them. I have a painting in the Art Walk of a giant man whose head is actually an island, and the boater on the water has no idea. That painting was a margin doodle and it is one of my favourites.

 

Q: What role does the artist have in society?

A: There are many; they branch out to other disciplines. We need art to keep education engaging for children; to begin conversations that only a creative mind would take note of, to advertise and to entertain. Even if you think of architects as artists (which I do), you have to include the world around you as proof of artists’ necessity.  Many people are artists and don’t even realize how they are giving that gift to society.

 

While you are out “Art Walking”, please take a photo and add #nvcac #ArtWalkMerritt #ExploreMerritt, so we can check it out too!

 

Hope you are enjoying the second week of Art Walk!

 

 

Art Walk is happening at the Courthouse Arts Gallery!

 

Bruce Walter is Art Walk Artist #4, and has been a photographer since 1976 when he first picked up his Olympus OM -1!  He has been featured several times locally at the Courthouse Arts Gallery and also participated in the 2013 Art Walk. This year, Bruce was awarded “Best in Show for his piece, “Canadian Classic”, which sold at the NVCAC’s 11th Annual Community Arts Show in March. Bruce is once again back at the Courthouse Arts Gallery with a great selection of his work.

 The Courthouse Arts Gallery is located at 1840 Nicola Ave open Wednesday & Sunday 10 am to 2 pm, and Thursday to Saturday, noon to 6 pm, now until July 31st.

 

And, hey, while you’re there, remember to post a photo and add #nvcac #ArtWalkMerritt #ExploreMerritt, so we can check it out, too!

 

What has the Arts Council done for you lately?

 

Actually, we have been working really hard!

Find out all about it in our Mid-Year Report as presented to Merritt City Council on June 27. You might be surprised at all the interesting events in our valley.

If you have a particular interest or skill to share, just contact us and see how to get involved in making this a great community. 

Paint-In Days at

Corbett Lake Lodge

Plein Aire Paint-ins! Artists - mark your calendars with July 25, August 15 and August 29 at scenic Corbett Lake Lodge. We will be painting from 10 am to 4 pm with luncheon served at noon in the dining room.  Only 15 participants per day and the $25 fee includes lunch. Online registration is available for specific days or all three. Book early for the best rate -  $20 for the first six registrants on each date.  

Online registration is ready for your click.

Please note that registrations are not refundable, but we can provide a CRA charitable tax receipt for cancellations received at least 3 days before the event, minus a $5 service charge. Send cancellation request to nicolavalleyartscouncil@gmail.com.

Two Art Scholarships for Fall 2017 

In Recognition of the Canada 150 Celebrations, the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council will provide two $150 Scholarships to deserving youth who are participating in art and cultural programs, classes, lessons or workshops in the community during this calendar year. 

These scholarships will be awarded by the Arts Council in September.  Deadline to apply August 31, 2017.  Activities must take place before December 31, 2017. For more information contact Chelsea at nicolavalleyartscouncil@gmail.com 

 

For the Press Release, with more info...