3 minute read
WE ARE ART
WE ARE ART PATRONS OF THE ARTS IN CAMPBELL RIVER
KEALY DONALDSON
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POTA, Patrons of the Arts in Campbell River,
was created to support visual and performing artists.
“This is the goal. Leveraging partnerships with Words on the Water Writing Festival and other organizations has proved very helpful to all. POTAS is an umbrella of Campbell River Arts Council which works well for our systems,” says Penny Gosselin, POTA current President.
POTA has been in operation for a couple years now. One of their event highlights was the Wearable Art Show; when they have a little idea or brainstorming session things just seem to blossom. The Wearable Art Fashion Show was a major fundraiser for the organization.
POTA has also partnered with the Downtown Campbell River Business Improvement Association to use vacant space for display and some retail-based creative events. “We pay or gift the participating artists with gift cards from local businesses. Heather, the owner from Quest Shoes in Campbell River, noted that it was well received to be supporting the arts and seeing the return," Gosselin says.
POTA’s Edge Gift Shop at the Anchor Inn is another partner, and they have launched a collective-style art boutique on site. Bev, General Manager at the Anchor Inn, has a vision to turn the hotel into an art destination. Everything in the art boutique is made by local artists with 27 consignors currently participating.
There really is something for everyone ranging from silk scarves to tea towels, aprons and other wonderful housewares. Currently featured are two potters, Ellen Stats and Anna Cox. The famous banner bags made a big splash when they were introduced to the boutique: created from the Campbell River Arts Council leftover street art banners, 50 bags were sewed and prepared with half of the stock selling right away.
The Anchor Inn looks after the direct retail sales then POTA pays the artists’ commissions. POTA is planning to build more art events when Covid allows; expect to see more and more happening at the Anchor Inn. The art boutique recently received upgrades to the shelving and lighting in the shop and it’s constantly getting refreshed! Gosselin and the rest of this group shares the love and the fun of the Arts! There is some possibility of another Wearable Art Show for this October —Covid pending—and in April 2022!
Connect with POTA @POTAcampbellriver www.pota.ca Be sure to visit the Edge Art Boutique at the Anchor Inn Campbell River
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