ArtsBridge Fall/Winter 2014-15

A publication of the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge (AAC)

F a l l / W i n t e r 2 014

advancing the arts in Lethbridge

LETHBRIDGE

ARTS DAYS

2014

Discover. experience. celebrate

PRIMARY EVENT PARTNERS

ThaNKyOu

SPONSORS Val and Flora Matteotti

EVENT SUPPORTERS Marcella Cooper Casa Drama Nutz Galt Museum and Archives Lethbridge Public Library Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Southern Alberta Art Gallery Trianon Gallery University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts Visual Arts Alberta/CARFAC Alberta Media Arts Alliance M:ST Mountain Standard Time Performative Art Festival Red Engine Coffee Sparkieʼs Food Truck

ARTISTS A special thank-you goes out to Lethbridgeʼs creative community. Your dedication, talent and hard work truly enhance our city!

VENUES Thank you to our host venues, we appreciate you opening your doors for the arts!

VOLUNTEERS Thank you to our dedicated volunteers. Your contributions are truly appreciated and we couldnʼt do it without you!

Publisher Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge 318 . 7 Street South Lethbridge, AB T1J 2G2 T: 403.320.0555 F: 403.320.2450 info@artslethbridge.org www.artslethbridge.org Publication date October 2014 Administration Suzanne Lint Executive Director Dawn Leite Assistant to E.D. Jana MacKenzie Finance Muffy McKay Projects Ashley Markus Communications

Programming Claire Hatton- Facility Darcy Logan- Gallery Diana Zasadny- Education Board of Directors PRESIDENT Kris Hodgson VICE PRESIDENT Dione Overes SECRETARY Greg Norman

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TREASURER Kristen Hood DIRECTORS Jennifer Babits Amanda Berg Ron Brown Karla Mather-Cocks Michelle Côté Louise Drysdale Tweela Houtekamer Mary Anne McTrowe Brian Quinn Don Reeves Jenn Schmidt-Rempel For additional copies contact the AAC office.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

director’s

message

The arts can be thought of as an indicator of the health of a community. Why do artists engage in the arts? Whether it’s dancing, drawing, singing, writing, or other art forms, artists create for a reason. It is because they have the need to explore our world, express their feelings and experiences, connect with others, and find meaning in the everyday.

In this issue of ArtsBridge, we examine and celebrate the positive impacts the arts have on us as individuals as well as on our community.

A vibrant art community is the result of the efforts of passionate and committed individuals.

This year, we celebrate the presentation of the tenth Joan Waterfield Memorial Award. As per its namesake, the late Joan Waterfield, this award recognizes members of the arts community who have made substantial and lasting contributions to the health of Lethbridge’s vibrant arts scene. Learn more about the recipients who have received the award and how you can nominate someone deserving on page 10.

The positive impact of arts education on children is well documented. Training in the performing arts improves academic performance in children and encourages children to expand their social skills. The Lethbridge Girls Rock Camp recently wrapped up another week-long camp with a showcase of original music by the campers. The camp teaches girls how to play an instrument, write a song and to learn how to express themselves in creative and artistic ways. Embedded learning in the camp includes self-esteem building, confidence, leadership and teamwork skills (page 8).

The arts can also be a catalyst for social change.

Former Casa Education Coordinator Jeremy Mason gives us a glimpse into the Lethbridge’s Housing First programming operating out of Casa. The program provides community based options for Housing First clients to have meaningful daily activity through involvement in the arts. Constructive social connections and having an outlet for creative expression can have a significant positive impact on disadvantaged individuals seeking to improve their lives. (page 4).

The positive impact the arts have on the quality of life in a community is often recognized.

What is sometimes less appreciated is the significant economic impact that artists have on a community. The Allied Arts Council has recently completed a mapping of the arts community in Lethbridge and a study on the economic impact the arts community has on the City of Lethbridge. The data collected demonstrates the significant impact that the arts have within the city. The full report will be released later this fall, but for now, we provide a sneak peek on page 7.

We are fortunate to have many artists who call Lethbridge home. We hope you enjoy this edition of ArtsBridge and the stories of how creative and innovate individuals contribute to our community and help to make Lethbridge a better place for all of us.

Suzanne Lint Executive Director

ABOUT THE COVER: Eric Dyck, a Lethbridge-based cartoonist, created the cover illustration for this issue of ArtsBridge.

The illustration features the Lethbridge viaduct and Eric draws the viaduct into his comic strip, Slaughterhouse Slough, every chance he gets.

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Improving a Community Through the Arts scroll

By Amanda Berg, AAC Board Member Imagine a community without the arts. It is without murals, without sculpture, and without colour. It is without singing, concerts or music. It is without dancing, or acting or festivals.

There are no theatres or galleries or places to draw, paint, write or play. Would you visit?

Would you want to stay?

The arts have value, not just in terms of economic value, but also of value defining a community’s identity and of its citizens’ legacy. The arts improve quality of life; affecting all aspects of enterprise and industry, of sport, and of the health of its people.

board blog

a substantial inventory of work that, for a variety of reasons, will likely remain so for some time. Let’s just refer to it as Van Gogh Syndrome, though few if any will ever gain that artist’s posthumous fame.

It can be said without reservation that most visual artists (at least the ones I know) certainly don’t make art for financial gain. Thus, it could be said that the issue of whether a community supports its artists or not is moot. That would be approaching the whole matter from a completely wrong perspective.

Let’s, instead, view it from the community point of view. In some ambiguous way there is a symbiotic relationship that exists between visual artists (and probably other 2

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Perhaps at its simplest and broadest form, the arts provide entertainment. Good entertainment affects happiness and improves well-being. Lethbridge has many arts entertainment opportunities to choose from. From New West Theatre performances to concerts at the Enmax Centre, to drama productions at the University of Lethbridge, box offices across the city are never short of events to promote. There’s excitement when the Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra announces their next season or when the concert line-up for Whoop-Up Days is announced.

The arts promote discussion; they allow us to celebrate our cultures, define our place in history, and support progress towards a better future. The arts engage us in meaningful debate, emphasizing and exposing aspects of our society we believe are important. Walking through an exhibit at the Trianon Gallery, or at SAAG or at the new gallery at Casa allows us to engage with art that may evoke any number of reactions. Ultimately, they inspire greater awareness and may even spark further curiosity.

The arts enhance education. By providing an outlet for creativity, children have been shown to be more confident, better problem solvers and more effective team players. There is an abundance of arts education opportunities in the city, from the U of L Music Conservatory to the Lethbridge Girls Rock Camp, to the dozens of art classes offered at Casa.

The arts also provide an outlet for life-long learning; engaging people of all ages to pick up a paintbrush, an instrument, a script or even a pair of knitting needles. The arts improve the connectedness of a community by teaching and sharing our art with others.

A city that supports its artists understands the impact a thriving arts industry has to improving its overall economic health. Supporting the arts community doesn’t just impact artists; it impacts the managers, curators, technicians and educators that support those artists. It also impacts businesses that are either directly or indirectly supported by arts initiatives.

Imagine a community that is improved by arts. There are murals and sculptures and colour.

There are songs, concerts, and music. There is dancing and acting and annual festivals. There are theatres, galleries, and a place to draw, paint, write and to play. This is a community people want to visit. It’s also a community where people want to stay. AB

?

“

WE ASKED YOU...

In your experience, how is art THERAPEUTIC?

Expression is “therapeutic”

in the broadest sense of the

Why do you practice art and what BENEFITS do you experience from it?

word, but more accurately it

is essential, if we are given a

chance to do something that is essential, that we cannot

normally do, we sometimes

”

call it therapy, but it’s really just living properly.

“

“

Practicing art helps me to practice mindfulness. I focus on a project, and feel free from other concerns that seem stressful.

”

”

positive outlook on life. I do art not just for me, but for everyone to see the colour and vibrancy, it brings them so much joy and happiness. That’s rewarding and therapeutic, sharing.

Art is therapeutic in that it provokes the imagination and encourages thought beyond your own conscience. It draws you into new perspective and creates opportunity to think of the world differently. Art is good for the soul.

”

Meditative experience. Self confidence in the improvement shown by making something out of nothing.

“

”

As someone severely disabled art is both a focus and a zen-like escape.

Art helps to de-stress by calming and soothing away pent up emotions. Doing art helps to bring balance and restore a

“

“

“

”

Art keeps my anxiety disorder from getting out of control, so much so I don’t need medication.

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”

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CONNECTING TO THE CO M M U N I T Y:

Arts Outreach Programs

By Ashley Markus, AAC Communications Coordinator

We chatted with Jeremy Mason, former Education Coordinator at Casa about some of the arts outreach programs being offered at Casa through the City’s Housing First program.

Casa RAW (Real Artists at Work) Programs Tell us about the programming currently being offered at Casa through the City’s Housing First program? What sorts of arts activities take place?

What is the intent of the programming?

JM: The Housing First Program is a city wide initiative to end homelessness in Lethbridge; the main goal is to get people off the

JM: The overall purpose and mandate of the Art Program is to provide

street and into homes. Beyond that, participants are more likely to

a community based option for Housing First individuals to become

stay off the streets if they have meaningful daily activity and Casa’s

integrated into society and increase their ability to have meaningful

art programs help to provide those opportunities. There are currently

daily activity by involvement in arts within the community.

three programs: RAW, Brassard House and Youth RAW. The RAW program was a program that was started by Annette Nieukerk and

What positive results have come about from the programming?

ran out of the shelter, then the Bowman and was recently brought under the Housing First banner here at Casa. Brassard House is a

JM: Participants have had a positive reaction to the art programs.

full time living program for seniors in the Housing First program.

As time has gone on, many students begin to take ownership and

Lastly, our Youth RAW program is specifically for young people. In all

pride over their art and the program. Additionally, it has helped many

of these programs participants create art and learn art techniques

people connect to the community at large, either through selling their

from one of our experienced instructors. Art activities range from

art work or having it involved in showcases throughout the city. It has

painting and printmaking to clay hand building and drawing.

given participants a chance to have a greater identity and sense of belonging.

What organizations are involved in offering this programming?

How many people participate in the program?

JM: There are many organizations that are involved in the Housing

JM: Approximately 15-20 individuals are involved in our art

First Program (YWCA & Woods Homes for example) however Casa

programming, although they don’t always attend each session.

(AAC) facilitates and runs the art programs.

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Brassard House Program Clients created feathers out of clay which were used in a “Welcome Ceremony” on June 23, 2014 to celebrate the works of the client’s hands. The feathers were blessed by an Elder. Some were given to people who invested in the program and care for the clients. Some were given as a peace offering between themselves and the organization in which they live. Some were given to First Nations patients who live in other parts of St. Michael’s Health Centre. Others were installed in the courtyard as a sign of belonging. The clients are showing enthusiasm and dedication to this project. This deeper connection to art seems to be helping to rebuild confidence, self-esteem and foster socialization.

The Feather ceremony was well received and a wide variety of people attended, including resident family members and friends, representatives and clients from AISH, St. Michael’s, Alberta Works, PDD, Lethbridge Shelter, YWCA, PEAK Vocational Training, members of the Lethbridge Police, Housing First, Home Base and CMHA. Various housing outreach workers, medical staff, counselors and community outreach workers also attended. Some of the feathers created for the ceremony, blessed by the Elder, were taken downtown to “Party in the Park” by staff member Coyote Bull Child. Coyote had a table set up to share the story of the feathers in the larger community in the Galt Park and what they represented to the members of Brassard House. AB

RESPONSES FROM THE FEATHER CEREMONY:

“This was obviously a spiritual event taking place in the resident’s home and they showed huge respect for it in their sobriety. They welcomed the visitors and were willing to share the “feather ceremony” with them.”

“It was very nice because it was very traditional for us so I loved being part of it. Now this is a real Indian place to come to.”

“It was really good. Enjoyed showing the feathers and showing respect.”

“It was excellent. I liked how everyone came out to see our work.”

“I liked showing my art and seeing my Auntie and Niece. They usually stay home but they came to see it.”

“I liked it because it was a traditional ceremony.”

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Music is a Secret Super Power

By Breeanne Fuller, U of L Conservatory of Music Piano Faculty and Kindermusik Coordinator Why is music so ubiquitous? I think it’s because of the powerful

As an educator, this research helps me affirm the importance of music

influence that music has on our lives. Music can heal, educate, uplift,

lessons to the parents of my students. These lessons, I say, will be a life-

foster skills, build perseverance and discipline, and so much more.

long gift that you are giving your child, something they will carry with

Music is a secret super power! The research showing music’s power

them forever. They will develop a love of music, but not only that, they

is abundant and overwhelming. At every turn, researchers show us

will benefit from amazing cognitive gains, and build other skills, too.

the impact that music can have on our lives, and the amazing things

I read recently that 2012 Canadian Olympic medalist Jeremiah Brown

that can happen to the human brain when it is exposed to music. Just

took piano lessons for ten years. He credits those music lessons for

recently, for example, CBC published a story about a short film in Halifax

helping him develop perseverance and discipline, skills needed to

that explores how music can play a role in the recovery from a stroke

reach the pinnacle of athletic achievement. In the article, he talks about

or severe brain injury. Similarly, another study found that early and

the importance of having the resolve to commit to a plan. I think this is

consistent music exposure can actually reduce the pervasive declines

such an important thing to remember as you enrol your child in music

in nervous system functions as adults get older. These declines cause

lessons. I can guarantee that music lessons will not always be easy, and

older adults to experience difficulty understanding speech, especially

some days your child will hate her instrument, her teacher, and you for

in challenging listening environments. Adults with a lifetime of music

making her practice. But, I promise you, as Jeremiah said, “if you have

training do not experience these difficulties.

resolve in your plan and continue, [your child] will have progress that you never would have imagined – never would have been able to

On the opposite age spectrum there was recently a story about musical

imagine.” And in that moment when your child transforms notes on a

pacifiers used in the NICU that play lullabies when the babies suck. In

page into a beautiful sound, you will be overcome with pride, knowing

the study, the babies with the musical pacifiers sucked stronger and

that it has all been worth it. AB

longer than those without. These sucking abilities are crucial skills for feeding. So, it’s clear that early and consistent exposure to music not only builds a healthy and happy brain in children, it will actually assist in maintaining sharper neural processing for adults later in life.

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THESE LESSONS WILL BE A LIFELONG GIFT THAT YOU ARE GIVING YOUR CHILD, SOMETHING THEY WILL CARRY WITH THEM FOREVER

The arts have a significant economic impact in our economy.

The Allied Arts Council has recently completed a research project examining the economic impact the arts have on our community. This report will be released in the fall of 2014. It will provide comprehensive information detailing the impact the arts have on Lethbridge’s economy and we encourage you to contact the AAC office if you would like to receive a copy of the Executive Summary or the full report.

But for now, a snapshot of what you can expect to see in the report later this fall.

The Economic Impact of the Arts in Lethbridge

608

In Lethbridge, a total of self-identified individuals are employed as artists or by arts organizations.

The total gross output of the arts sector originating in the City of Lethbridge is roughly

20 million dollars

300

This equates to approximately full time positions and

12 million dollars of earned revenue.

In total 608 individuals are

2,200

Approximately volunteers contribute over

64,000

hours to arts organizations, the equivalent of about 36 more full time positions.

employed by arts organizations or artists: 16.6% full-time, 51.9% part-time, 22.9% casual and 8.6% other means (e.g. contract)

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DISCOVERING COMMUNITY:

Lethbridge Girls Rock Camp WE SAT DOWN WITH ROZ JEFFERY, CO-ORGANIZER OF THE LETHBRIDGE GIRLS ROCK CAMP, TO LEARN A LITTLE MORE

alive

rock n roll

dream

ABOUT WHAT THE CAMP IS AND THE IMPACT IT HAS ON THE PARTICIPANTS.

AB What is the Lethbridge Girls Rock Camp?

RJ Lethbridge Girls Rock Camp (LGRC) is a non-profit, volunteer driven organization where girls aged 8 to 18 can learn a new instrument (or new techniques on an old one) during a week long day camp over one week in the summer.

AB How did it get started? What partners are involved?

RJ Silvana Campus, a local bass player of the bands Betterhalf and The Darby and Joan Club, spent many summers volunteering at the Girls Rock Camp Vancouver after first volunteering at the Portland Rock ‘n’ Roll Camp for Girls,

no regrets

music energy guitar

where the Girls Rock Camp movement began. In early 2013, after speaking to other Lethbridge musicians, organizations, and parents, she saw that there was a lot of interest to start a camp in Lethbridge and began to gather resources to make it a reality. One of those conversations was with the organizers of GirlSpace, a local program at the YWCA of Lethbridge & District.

Since both groups have similar goals, they decided to partner and support each other.

AB What does a typical week look like for a participant?

RJ

Girls spend each morning taking part in instrument

instruction, while the afternoons are split between writing a song and rehearsing with their bands and participating in various workshops. Lunch-time is a unique time where local bands come in to play for the campers and answer any questions they have about being a musician and performing. At the end of the week, it’s time for the Camper Showcase where each band will take to the stage and perform their original song for

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family and friends.

AB What do the participants learn?

RJ How to play an instrument is the most obvious, as well as how to write a song; but music is just the vehicle for the girls to learn how to express themselves in creative and artistic ways, how to build self-esteem in themselves and others, confidence, leadership and teamwork skills.

AB What are the goals of the camp?

RJ The first goal of camp is to HAVE FUN! We also work with each of the girls to try to show them their limitless potential while showing them ways to encourage other girls in positive ways.

AB We’ve seen other girls rock camps- was yours inspired by a particular one?

Do you think this is a growing movement?

RJ We have been inspired by similar camps and are working towards being part of the Girls Rock Camp Alliance (girlsrockcampalliance.org), which has become a worldwide movement after the first camp in Portland, Oregon in 2007. Every year, new camps are being added to the GRCA World Map, which stretches from the west coast of North America, to South America, Europe and Australia. This summer saw two new camps begin in Western Canada: one in Victoria, BC, and another in Saskatoon, SK. AB What are some of the positive impacts you’ve seen as a result of the camp?

RJ Where to begin?!?! One of the campers this summer shared in the middle of the week her new discovery of local music. She didn’t realize that Lethbridge had such an active local music scene and she was very appreciative of the fact that camp gave her an opportunity to meet and talk to musicians from all genres of music. I anticipate that in the coming years, she will not only be part of this community but also an advocate for local music.

Another camper shared at the beginning of the week that she had crippling stage fright so we worked with her through the week, at her pace, on ways to conquer her fear. Watching her transform into a confident and empowered young woman really embodied what LGRC is all about.

AB

How can interested parties get involved in next year’s camp?

RJ There are many different ways to become involved in LGRC. If someone is interested in volunteering, we have applications available on the website (lethbridgegirlsrockcamp. com). Having a background in music isn’t a requirement as there are many different volunteer positions to fill to run the week-long camp. There are also LGRC events throughout the year (movie nights, open mic family jams, etc.) where you can meet the organizers and some of the campers. Keep an eye on the LGRC Facebook page for updates (facebook.com/LethbridgeGirlsRockCamp). AB

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TEN YEARS OF THE JOAN WATERFIELD MEMORIAL AWARD As per its namesake, The Joan Waterfield Memorial Award recognizes members of the arts community, respected by their contemporaries for advancing and enhancing the arts. These individuals have made substantial contributions to our community in the area of the arts; whether it is literary, music, dance, new media, theatre or visual arts.

Recipients are selected from names submitted by community members from Lethbridge and area. Individuals who are honoured personify the values expressed in the philosophy and vision of the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge. “Lethbridge is enriched by a thriving arts community”.

The award is presented each fall at the annual Mayor’s Luncheon for Business and the Arts.

Joan Waterfield instructing a drama camp, 1971

Do you know someone who is worthy of the Joan Waterfield Memorial Award?

Nominate them! Contact the Allied Arts Council office at 403-320-0555 for more information.

2014 WINNER: EDWARD BAYLY Ed joined Lethbridge Musical Theatre in 1964 and has been involved in every production up to the present day. He then joined The Playgoers of Lethbridge in 1965 and has been involved in almost every aspect of theatre including acting, directing, producing, set design, construction and painting as well as serving on boards in various capacities as well as always being a strong advocated for the arts in Lethbridge. He has acted in 80-plus productions, directed 22 productions and written 9 plays.

Jo

He has touched the lives of countless people in all ages of our community and has taught the art

Congratulations Ed!

of theatre and inspired all to be the best they can be.

Mayor Chris Spearman & AAC President Kris Hodgson present Ed Bayly with the award.

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Wate Memor

oan

terfield rial Award

2005 – JOAN WATERFIELD MEMORIAL AWARD ESTABLISHED

2006 – LINDA BAYLY

2007 – ELAINE HARRISON

2010 - GEORGE & NELLIE MANN 2008 – VAN CHRISTOU

2009 – FRANCIS SCHULTZ

2011 – MAUREEN CHAMBERS & TRENT MORANZ

2013 - MARGARET MEZEI

2012 - ROBERT FENTON

PAST WINNERS...

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Arts

Entertainment

Arts, Entertainment,

By Roy Pogorzelski

Inclusion

As Lethbridge continues to make great strides in becoming a more welcoming, inclusive and secure community, it is the unsung heroes that require some credit. The artists & entertainers from all backgrounds, cultures and ways of life have created a vibrant atmosphere to share in culture, learn about identity and construct a community of choice. The Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination (CMARD) has been considered the most active CMARD in the entire nation. The energy, passion and determination of this committee has created opportunities to join national initiatives, volunteer in social marketing campaigns and engage our citizens.

THE ARTISTS & ENTERTAINERS FROM ALL

The PANGAEA Diversity Café’s were started in 2010 through a collaboration of agencies that understood the idea of allowing an informal place for people to meet others from different backgrounds, cultures and ways of life. Funded by CMARD, the first café attracted around eighty citizens at the Galt Museum

BACKGROUNDS, CULTURES

& Archives. Since 2010, the PANGAEA Diversity Café has brought in many diverse partners and has

AND WAYS OF LIFE HAVE

met with great success. The PANGAEA Café’s have always utilized art and local entertainers to educate

CREATED A VIBRANT

about the importance of diversity and to create a collaboration of multi-culturalism that is free and

ATMOSPHERE TO SHARE IN

accessible with no barriers.

CULTURE, LEARN ABOUT IDENTITY AND CONSTRUCT A COMMUNITY OF CHOICE.

In April 2014, the PANGAEA Café was held at the Southern Alberta Art Gallery (SAAG) with the theme being Art & Diversity. Diversity was celebrated through incredible local displays like: the LSCO wood carvers, Hawaiian slide guitar, miming, Métis jigging, didgeridoo, object manipulation, musicians, new media art, painting, bead work and henna tattoo. This impressive display of art was free for the 200 plus citizens that attended the café. Not to mention the free entrance into the SAAG exhibitions.

Connections with local artists have been the foundation of creating such impressive Diversity Café’s.

At the diversity café in July, City Hall was turned into a cruise ship for a STAY-CATION. The café attracted just over 300 citizens to enjoy our magician, Rufus the mime, musicians, Malaysian belly dancing, henna

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tattoo, sari tying and Jim Lacey’s combination band.

I

Inclusion Aside from the impressive local art and culture provided at the PANGAEA Café, it has also been utilized by different

ethno-cultural groups in our community to educate, celebrate and make people aware of the wonderfully diverse groups that make up Lethbridge.

In January 2014, a collaboration of agencies came together to create the UNITAS inclusion series. Funded by CMARD, this was an opportunity to engage our ethno cultural communities and other groups/agencies in creating opportunities for citizens to gain awareness about other cultures/groups. The series started in January with the Filipino community.

The Filipino Association provided dancing, singing and had art vendors on display. This carried into February with

AS LETHBRIDGE’S

black history month, as UNITAS partnered with the Afro-Canadian Association and the Galt Museum & Archives to

POPULATION

bring the community drumming, singing, dancing, Sudanese dancing, arts vendors and a fashion show.

CONTINUES TO GROW AND GET

In March, UNITAS took a break to focus on the 3rd CMARD Conference on providing the community with “Tools for

MORE DIVERSE; IT

Action”. Again we were impressed by the Bhutanese Dancers, a Hoop Dancer, Tai Chi demonstration and a drama

WILL BE THROUGH

performance from UPSTART. In April the Hungarian Cultural Society provided art, textiles, traditional dress, music from the Hungarian Trio and dancing, as City Hall was converted into Hungary for the day. In May, UNITAS continued exploring arts from around the world by converting the City Hall foyer into Nicaragua. There were tango and salsa demonstrations, music provided by D.J. Tizio, art, textiles and Latin singing as we raised awareness about Nicaragua.

ART THAT OUR CITIZENS FIND COMMONALITIES IN A WONDERFULLY

In June, UNITAS in partnership with the Galt Museum & Archives hosted the kickoff to Aboriginal Awareness week.

EQUITABLE WORLD.

Again the mixture of vibrant art and entertainment allowed for citizens to learn about Métis, First Nation and Inuit culture. There was beading, art, Métis jigging, Blackfoot fancy and jingle dress dancing, tipi building demonstration and music. In July, the inclusion series focused on educating about Sexual Identity and Sexual Awareness as it partnered with OutReach Southern Alberta and Pride Fest. This collaboration provided opportunities to engage citizens that were in the park for the music, art and entertainment to understand more about the LGBTQ community.

The UNITAS inclusion series will be continued in August with the education and celebration of Bhutanese Culture.

The Canadian Bhutanese Cultural Society brought in Nepali celebrity singer Sunita Dulal, Bhutanese Dancing and art vendors. In partnership with UNITAS, this provided an opportunity for Lethbridge citizens to learn about Bhutanese culture. As well, September provided education and awareness about people with developmental disabilities.

The diverse display of artists and entertainers in Lethbridge from all backgrounds, cultures and ways of life has been instrumental in creating opportunities for citizens to learn and be exposed to culture. As Lethbridge’s population continues to grow and get more diverse; it will be through art that our citizens find commonalities in a wonderfully equitable world. AB

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SHARE THE ARTS!

�

LOOKING BACK: Tag your arts photos on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!

2014 marks the fifth anniversary of Lethbridge Arts Days.

The Allied Arts Council joined the province-wide Alberta Arts Days celebrations (now known as Alberta Culture Days) on September 17- 19, 2010 when Lethbridge was chosen as one of five feature celebration sites. Events over the past five years have always included an ArtWalk and other events include gallery hops, artisan markets, street performances, film nights, The Word on the Street Festival, public art tours, family fun days, live music festivals, and more.

Alberta Culture Days (formerly Alberta Arts Days) is a three-day, province wide celebration of the arts and culture. The first three years of Alberta Arts Days occurred during the third Friday, Saturday and Sunday of September. More recently, the event has moved to the last weekend of September, aligning the festival with the pan-Canadian Culture Days. The purpose of Alberta Culture Days is to showcase the province’s artists, art organizations and cultural industries, encourage Albertans and its visitors to engage in the arts, and promote the importance of arts and culture as part of a prosperous and vibrant province. AB

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LETHBRIDGE ARTS DAYS AACleth

AACleth

AlliedArtsCouncil

Did you

know?

ArtWalk started twenty years ago in 1994. What started as a small tour of art in traditional and non-traditional venues, it now has approximately 50 venues each September!

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An Open Invitation: Public programs at the University of Lethbridge Art Gallery

Why should kids have all the fun?

Josephine Mills, Director/Curator, University of Lethbridge Art Gallery

When art galleries have hands-on events, there is an automatic assumption that these are just for children. Parents and care-givers might be able to surreptitiously join in, but they aren’t assumed to be the primary audience. On a recent trip to art galleries in several cities in England, I saw a variety of fabulous hands-on public programs either just for adults or clearly for all ages. I was deliberately seeking these out to further my research into what ‘public engagement’ means (and how we know when we have been successful at it) and to find inspiration for new programs at the University of Lethbridge Art Gallery.

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Arising from this research, the U of L Art Gallery will be expanding our

The third new activity will be a social media artist-in-residence. The

existing public programs and adding new events in the upcoming year.

“in-residence” part is about the artist taking over the U of L Art Gallery’s

Much of the expansion will be through partnerships in community

Twitter and Facebook feeds, rather than actually being in town, and so

events off campus, such as building from a pilot last year with the U

some of the artists will be in Lethbridge and others will log in from other

of L’s new Institute for Child and Youth Studies and Opokaa’sin Child

cities. The project will invite our social media audiences, whether local

Development Centre. The new events, aimed primarily at adults, will be

or not, to respond to questions and discussion. The artist will then create

focused on the Main Gallery space and will be open to everyone who

responses that will be posted on-line and also projected on the wall

is interested.

adjacent to the Main Gallery’s entrance. The topics will be connected to the on-going Complex Social Change series and will start by addressing

Starting October 2, we will have a noon hour Knit n Knatter / Crochet

a range of issues related to our built and natural environments. The up-

n Chatter. Inspired by programs at galleries in England, the event will

coming anniversaries in 2017 – 150th for Canadian confederation and

be open to all -- experienced crafty folk can bring their materials and

50th for the U of L – will also be a focus and address thinking about

projects or new comers can come and try making a granny square with

what people would like to see in the next 50 years in Lethbridge and

the assistance of gallery staff and volunteers. The program will provide

for the campus.

an opportunity for an informal social event to view the exhibitions, swap knitting tips, and enjoy the public space of the gallery. As a day

The U of L Art Gallery will continue with our existing successful programs

time event, we know that it will probably be easier for on-campus

such as Culture Vulture Saturdays, our on-line education component,

people to attend, but everyone is welcome. Perhaps avid knitters could

and the various connecting to collections projects, such as MmmPop

see it as a combined craft and exercise program -- the hike to and from

that started in the summer and runs into September. As always, all the

the visitor parking lot is an added bonus!

activities will be free of charge and there is no need to book – just drop in (or follow the U of L Art Gallery on social media).

On October 16, we will launch the Drawing Bar. As the title suggests, there will be a cash bar to go along with the drawing activities. Each

The Knit n Knatter / Crochet n Chatter is slated for Thursdays at

event will have a loose theme to give a starting point and some ideas,

noon, Nov. 13, 2014 - and more will be planned for 2015.

however, people can also simply come for some social art making. The gallery will provide some basic materials for new comers, or those who

The Drawing Bar is scheduled for Thursday evenings, 7 – 9 pm, Oct.

are less picky, and staff and volunteers will be on hand if assistance

16 and Nov 20, 2014 and Jan. 29 and Feb. 26, 2015. AB

is wanted. Artists and the more choosy drawing fans can also bring their own clean drawing materials -- the event is in the gallery during exhibitions so pastels, charcoal, or other dust and dirt generating media are not compatible with the exhibited art. Knitters are also welcome if they prefer an evening event (and the closer parking that is available at night).

To l e a r n m o r e , v i s i t w w w. u l a g . c a ARTSBRIDGE

17

In Memoriam: Clare Malmberg 1924 - 2014

By Karen Kay A definition of “community service” states that it is an act or acts performed by someone for the benefit of the public.

In August of this year, the Allied Arts Council and the citizens of Lethbridge lost a dear man, Clare Malmberg who through his many years of service did indeed greatly benefit the lives of all of us. He was a lifelong member of the AAC, an avid artist and supporter of the arts.

Clare served as a board member of the Allied Arts council in the 1960’s and 70’s. During his time with the board, Clare’s strong leadership resulted in the preservation and upgrading of the Bowman Arts Centre, the then home of the Arts Council and many local artists groups. Clare used not only his professional expertise but his artistic and architectural vision to help maintain and create a wonderful home, meeting space and gallery for the council and its member groups for many years.

Clare truly loved the arts both visual and performing. He gladly assisted other board members during the Arts Council’s sponsorship of countless travelling performing arts events. Both Clare and his lovely wife Margaret could often be seen at a gallery opening

“I will always remember Clare as one the few

or enjoying a performance from one of many of the city’s performing arts groups.

totally sincere people I have known, who did not

In order to undertake the responsibilities of community service, one must have the

express negative comments about others.

support of one’s family. The Allied Arts Council wishes to extend not only our condolences

He would help anyone at any time without any

but also our deep appreciation to Clare’s wife Margaret, daughter Brynn, son Kevin and

thought of personal recognition or reward.

families for their love and support of Clare both during his time on the Art’s Council and throughout his life.

The world is a lesser place with his passing.”

Bob Baunton, friend and former AAC Board Member

We are truly blessed to have known him.

To recognize a contributing member of the AAC family who has passed on, contact us at info@artslethbridge.org

Congratulations

Mayor’s Luncheon

2014 Allied Arts Council Excellence (AACE) Awards: Individual John Savill Business Royal LePage South Country Real Estate Joan Waterfield Memorial Award Edward Bayly

for business and the arts

THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT PARTNERS:

PLATINUM

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JOAN WATERFIELD MEMORIAL AWARD 18

ARTSBRIDGE

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• Working to improve arts facilities in Lethbridge • Providing collaborative opportunities for artists • Advocating for the arts Core funding support is gratefully received from:

Organizations, individuals and businesses can demonstrate support for the arts in Lethbridge with an AAC membership!

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Associate Members:

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Leon Barr Richard Bates Donna Crawford Michelle Cote Eric Dyck Brad Goruk Court Gregson Lynn Gregson Judi Suni Hall Bill Hampton Brandon Hearty Mikki Hughes Kate LaRoque Dawn Leite Andrew Martin Jon Martin Thorsten Nesch Jasmine Walser

Linda Chorney Louise Drysdale and Susan Anderson Paul Hall Kristen Hood Wendy Kaplan Muffy McKay Megan Peeke-Vout Sandra J White

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ARTSBRIDGE

19

calendar of events October october

Casa Gallery Troy Nickle: A Window Through Time Maria Madacky: White Labyrinth Until October 25 Beyond Zed Gift Cottage Fall Into Autumn Open House October 4, 10am-5pm & October 5, 1pm-4pm Abstractions & Appetizers October 24, 7pm Empress Theatre Chloe Albert October 25, 7:30pm Galt Museum & Archives Treasures & Curiosities The Sequel Exhibition Until January 2015 Discovery Hall Cemetery Tours by Flashlight October 10, 11, 23, 24, & 25 St. Patrick’s Cemetery The Geomatic Attic Fred Eaglesmith October 15, 8pm College Barn The Harpoonist & the Axe Murderer October 17, 8pm Geomatic Attic Jeremy Fisher October 22, 8pm Geomatic Attic Ridley Bent October 23, 8pm Geomatic Attic Lethbridge Folk Club Bluegrass Jam October 3 & 17, 7:30pm The Wolf’s Den Howlin’ Wolf Open Stage October 10 & 24, 8pm The Wolf’s Den Lethbridge Public Library Art Exhibit by Brent Coulton September 1 – October 31 Foreign Film Festival October 21 – 24, 7pm Theatre Gallery New West Theatre Jake’s Gift by Julia Mackey October 1 – October 11, 7:30pm October 9 & 11, 1pm Sterndale Bennett Theatre Playgoers of Lethbridge The Dixie Swim Club by Jessie Jones October 22 – 25, 6pm Country Kitchen Catering

20

ARTSBRIDGE

Southern Alberta Art Gallery Raphaëlle de Groot: The Summit Meetings An Te Liu: In Absentia September 27 to November 23

University of Lethbridge Art Gallery Other Worlds by Douglas Walker September 11 – October 26 Main Gallery MmmPop October 31 – December 23 Helen Christou Gallery

november

November

Casa Christmas at Casa November 21, 5-9pm November 22, 10am – 5pm ATB Financial Community Room Casa Gallery Len Komanac- Dr. StrangeLen’s Pop Tarts and Burning Toasters Leila Armstrong- Coyote Opening Reception: November 1, 7pm November 1 – December 27

University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts Lunch and Listen Series, “Keys, Mallets, and Sticks” October 3, 12:15pm ATB Financial Community Room, Casa

FEATURE: A Festival of Film & Fine Wine November 7 & 8, 6:30pm

New Media Film Series: Common Chord October 8, 7pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre Gallery

Galt Museum & Archives Treasures & Curiosities The Sequel Exhibition Until January 2015 Discovery Hall

Tribes by Nina Raines October 14 – October 18, 8pm October 18, 2pm David Spinks Theatre

Night at the Museum Shopping Event November 27, 4pm

French Fried Brass October 18, 8pm ATB Financial Community Room, Casa Music at Noon, Dr. Gary Reeves October 21, 12:15pm University Recital Hall Music at Noon, Sheila Christie October 28, 12:15pm University Recital Hall New Media Film Series: An Evening with UPA Animation October 29, 7pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre Gallery Opera Workshop, “I do!”

October 31, 8pm University Recital Hall

Empress Theatre Steve Coffey & The Lokels November 15, 7:30pm

Geomatic Attic An Evening with Jill Barber November 3, 8pm Southminster United Church The Strumbellas November 4, 8pm Geomatic Attic Black Umfolosi November 21, 8pm Geomatic Attic Helen Schuler Nature Centre Christmas Crafts November 13 & 14, 7pm Lethbridge Folk Club Bluegrass Circle Jam November 7 & 21, 8pm Wolf’s Den Howlin’ Wolf Open Stage November 14 & 28, 8pm Wolf’s Den Lethbridge Community Gold Band Autumn Gold - Around the World November 1, 7:30pm Southminster United Church Always & Forever Remembrance Day Concert November 8, 7:30pm Sterndale Bennett Theatre Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Chamber Series II, Romance, Old & New November 7, 8pm Southminster United Church

University of Lethbridge Art Gallery MmmPop Until December 23 Helen Christou Gallery Seth: Dominion November 7 – January 15 Main Gallery University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts Lunch and Listen Series, “Scenes from Famous Operas” November 7, 12:15pm ATB Financial Community Room, Casa Opera Workshop, “I do!”

November 1, 8pm University Recital Hall New Media Film Series, Blade Runner November 12, 7pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre Gallery Computer Blues November 15, 8pm University Recital Hall Maraca2 Percussion Duo November 16, 8pm University Recital Hall Sauce for the Goose

by Georges Feydeau November 18 – 22, 8pm University Theatre U of L Singers “How Can I Keep From Singing?”

November 22, 8pm University Recital Hall Paris Sketches November 25, 8pm University Theatre New Media Film Series, Her November 26, 7pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre Gallery A Celebration of Lieder November 26, 8pm University Recital Hall Global Drums November 29, 8pm University Theatre

December december Casa Gallery Len Komanac- Dr. StrangeLen’s Pop Tarts and Burning Toasters Leila Armstrong- Coyote Until December 27 Empress Theatre Foothills Brass December 18, 7:30pm Galt Museum & Archives Treasures & Curiosities The Sequel Exhibition Until January 2015 Discovery Hall Lethbridge Community Band 23rd Annual Mayor’s Christmas Concert December 13, 7:30pm Southminster United Church Lethbridge Folk Club Bluegrass Circle Jam December 5 & 19 , 8pm Wolf’s Den Howlin’ Wolf Open Stage December 12 & 26, 8pm Wolf’s Den New West Theatre Jubilee: The Best of New West December 15 – January 3, 7:30pm December 26 & January 3, 1pm December 27, 3:30pm Yates Memorial Theatre The Great Munsch Mystery December 22 – January 3, 3:30pm December 23, 26, 27, 28, 31 & January 1, 1pm January 2, 7pm Sterndale Bennett Theatre

Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Messiah December 7, 3pm December 8, 8pm Southminster United Church

Galt Museum & Archives Treasures & Curiosities The Sequel Exhibition September 26 to January 2015 Discovery Hall

Southern Alberta Art Gallery Amalie Atikins: we live on the edge of disaster and imagine we are in a musical Elaine Stocki: 711 Opening reception: December 6, 8pm December 6, 2014 to February 1, 2015

Lethbridge Folk Club Bluegrass Circle Jam January 2 & 16, 8pm Wolf’s Den

University of Lethbridge Art Gallery MmmPop Until December 23 Helen Christou Gallery Seth: Dominion Until January 15 Main Gallery University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts U of L Jazz Ensemble December 3, 8pm University Theatre New Media Film Series, My Winnipeg December 17, 7pm Lethbridge Public Library Theatre Gallery

january

January

Casa Gallery Paintings by Donna Bilyk Media work by Nicole Lalonde January 10 – February 28 Empress Theatre Cowtown Opera Company January 24, 7:30pm

Howlin’ Wolf Open Stage January 9 & 23, 8pm Wolf’s Den Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Symphony Series III, Dido & Aeneas January 16 & 17, 8pm Southminster United Church New West Theatre Jubilee: The Best of New West Until January 3, 7:30pm January 3 matinee, 1pm Yates Memorial Theatre The Great Munsch Mystery January 1, 1pm January 2, 7pm Sterndale Bennett Theatre Southern Alberta Art Gallery Amalie Atikins: we live on the edge of disaster and imagine we are in a musical Elaine Stocki: 711 Until February 1 University of Lethbridge Art Gallery Seth: Dominion Until January 15 Main Gallery Selfies January 22 – March 19 Main Gallery University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine Arts Lunch & Listen Series January 2, 12:15pm ATB Financial Community

Contact information for each event/organization: Allied Arts Council www.artslethbridge.org

Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra www.lethbridgesymphony.org

Empress Theatre www.empresstheatre.ab.ca

New West Theatre www.newwesttheatre.com

Galt Museum & Archives www.galtmuseum.com

Playgoers of Lethbridge www.playgoers.ca

The Geomatic Attic www.geomaticattic.ca

Southern Alberta Art Gallery www.saag.ca

Lethbridge Community Band Society www.lcbs.ca

U of L Art Gallery www.ulag.ca

Lethbridge Folk Club www.lfc.ab.ca

U of L Faculty of Fine Arts www.uleth.ca/finearts/events

Lethbridge Musical Theatre www.lethbridgemusicaltheatre.ca Lethbridge Public Library www.lethlib.ca

February february Casa Gallery Paintings by Donna Bilyk Media work by Nicole Lalonde January 10 – February 28 Lethbridge Folk Club Bluegrass Circle Jam February 6 & 20, 8pm Wolf’s Den Howlin’ Wolf Open Stage February 13 & 27, 8pm Wolf’s Den Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra Love Notes February 7, 6pm Casa Playgoers of Lethbridge Leading Ladies by Ken Ludwig February 11 – 14, 8pm Yates Memorial Centre Southern Alberta Art Gallery Amalie Atikins: we live on the edge of disaster and imagine we are in a musical Elaine Stocki: 711 Until February 1 University of Lethbridge Art Gallery Selfies January 22 – March 19 Main Gallery

On the cover: Work by Eric Dyck