artsbridge fall/winter 2014-15
DESCRIPTION
Examining the positive impacts the arts have on the community.TRANSCRIPT
advancing the arts in Lethbridge
F a l l / W i n t e r 2 0 1 4
A publication of the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge (AAC)
ARTS DAYSDiscover. experience. celebrate
2014
LETHBRIDGET
ha
NK
yO
u
EVENT SUPPORTERS
ARTISTSMarcella CooperCasaDrama NutzGalt Museum and ArchivesLethbridge Public LibraryLethbridge Symphony OrchestraSouthern Alberta Art GalleryTrianon GalleryUniversity of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine ArtsVisual Arts Alberta/CARFACAlberta Media Arts AllianceM:ST Mountain Standard Time Performative Art FestivalRed Engine CoffeeSparkieʼs Food Truck
VENUES
Thank you to our host venues, we appreciate you opening your doors for the arts!
A special thank-you goes out to Lethbridgeʼs creative community. Your dedication, talent and hard work truly enhance our city!
VOLUNTEERS
Thank you to our dedicated volunteers. Your contributions are truly appreciated and we couldnʼt do it without you!
PRIMARY EVENT PARTNERS
Val and Flora Matteotti
SPONSORS
ARTSBRIDGE 1
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
director’smessage
Fall
/W
inte
r 20
14PublisherAllied Arts Council of Lethbridge318 . 7 Street SouthLethbridge, AB T1J 2G2T: 403.320.0555 F: [email protected]
Publication date October 2014Administration
Suzanne LintExecutive Director
Dawn LeiteAssistant to E.D.
Jana MacKenzieFinance
Muffy McKayProjects
Ashley MarkusCommunications
Programming
Claire Hatton- Facility
Darcy Logan- Gallery
Diana Zasadny- Education
Board of Directors
PRESIDENTKris Hodgson
VICE PRESIDENTDione Overes
SECRETARYGreg Norman
TREASURERKristen Hood
DIRECTORSJennifer BabitsAmanda BergRon BrownKarla Mather-CocksMichelle CôtéLouise DrysdaleTweela HoutekamerMary Anne McTroweBrian QuinnDon ReevesJenn Schmidt-Rempel
For additional copies contact the AAC office.
No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
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.
a substantial inven-
tory 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 post-
humous fame.
It can be said with-
out 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 communi-
ty supports its artists
or not is moot. That
would be approach-
ing 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 rela-
tionship that exists
between visual artists
(and probably other
bo
ard
blo
gImagine 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.
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
scroll
2 ARTSBRIDGE
Improving a Community Through the ArtsBy Amanda Berg, AAC Board Member
?
Art helps to de-stress by calming and soothing away pent up emotions. Doing art helps to bring balance and restore a
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.
“ Practicing art helps me to practice mindfulness. I focus on a
project, and feel free from other concerns that seem stressful.
As someone severely disabled art is both a focus and a zen-like escape.”
Meditative experience. Self confidence in the improvement shown by making something out of nothing.“ ”Art keeps my anxiety disorder from getting out of control, so much so I don’t need medication.“ ”
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.
“”
Expression is “therapeutic”
in the broadest sense of the
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.
“
“”
In your experience, how is art THERAPEUTIC?
Why do you practice art and what BENEFITS do you experience from it??WE ASKED YOU...
ARTSBRIDGE 3
”“
”
4 ARTSBRIDGE
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?
JM: The Housing First Program is a city wide initiative to end
homelessness in Lethbridge; the main goal is to get people off the
street and into homes. Beyond that, participants are more likely to
stay off the streets if they have meaningful daily activity and Casa’s
art programs help to provide those opportunities. There are currently
three programs: RAW, Brassard House and Youth RAW. The RAW
program was a program that was started by Annette Nieukerk and
ran out of the shelter, then the Bowman and was recently brought
under the Housing First banner here at Casa. Brassard House is a
full time living program for seniors in the Housing First program.
Lastly, our Youth RAW program is specifically for young people. In all
of these programs participants create art and learn art techniques
from one of our experienced instructors. Art activities range from
painting and printmaking to clay hand building and drawing.
What organizations are involved in offering this
programming?
JM: There are many organizations that are involved in the Housing
First Program (YWCA & Woods Homes for example) however Casa
(AAC) facilitates and runs the art programs.
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.
CONNECTING TO THE COMMUNIT Y:
Arts Outreach Programs
What is the intent of the programming?
JM: The overall purpose and mandate of the Art Program is to provide
a community based option for Housing First individuals to become
integrated into society and increase their ability to have meaningful
daily activity by involvement in arts within the community.
What positive results have come about from the programming?
JM: Participants have had a positive reaction to the art programs.
As time has gone on, many students begin to take ownership and
pride over their art and the program. Additionally, it has helped many
people connect to the community at large, either through selling their
art work or having it involved in showcases throughout the city. It has
given participants a chance to have a greater identity and sense of
belonging.
How many people participate in the program?
JM: Approximately 15-20 individuals are involved in our art
programming, although they don’t always attend each session.
By Ashley Markus, AAC Communications Coordinator
ARTSBRIDGE 5 ARTSBRIDGE 5
Brassard House ProgramClients 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
“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.”
RESPONSES FROM THE FEATHER CEREMONY:
“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.”
“It was really good. Enjoyed showing the feathers and showing respect.”
“I liked it because it was a traditional ceremony.”
“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.”
Why is music so ubiquitous? I think it’s because of the powerful
influence that music has on our lives. Music can heal, educate, uplift,
foster skills, build perseverance and discipline, and so much more.
Music is a secret super power! The research showing music’s power
is abundant and overwhelming. At every turn, researchers show us
the impact that music can have on our lives, and the amazing things
that can happen to the human brain when it is exposed to music. Just
recently, for example, CBC published a story about a short film in Halifax
that explores how music can play a role in the recovery from a stroke
or severe brain injury. Similarly, another study found that early and
consistent music exposure can actually reduce the pervasive declines
in nervous system functions as adults get older. These declines cause
older adults to experience difficulty understanding speech, especially
in challenging listening environments. Adults with a lifetime of music
training do not experience these difficulties.
On the opposite age spectrum there was recently a story about musical
pacifiers used in the NICU that play lullabies when the babies suck. In
the study, the babies with the musical pacifiers sucked stronger and
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.
As an educator, this research helps me affirm the importance of music
lessons to the parents of my students. These lessons, I say, will be a life-
long gift that you are giving your child, something they will carry with
them forever. They will develop a love of music, but not only that, they
will benefit from amazing cognitive gains, and build other skills, too.
I read recently that 2012 Canadian Olympic medalist Jeremiah Brown
took piano lessons for ten years. He credits those music lessons for
helping him develop perseverance and discipline, skills needed to
reach the pinnacle of athletic achievement. In the article, he talks about
the importance of having the resolve to commit to a plan. I think this is
such an important thing to remember as you enrol your child in music
lessons. I can guarantee that music lessons will not always be easy, and
some days your child will hate her instrument, her teacher, and you for
making her practice. But, I promise you, as Jeremiah said, “if you have
resolve in your plan and continue, [your child] will have progress that
you never would have imagined – never would have been able to
imagine.” And in that moment when your child transforms notes on a
page into a beautiful sound, you will be overcome with pride, knowing
that it has all been worth it. AB
Music is a Secret Super PowerBy Breeanne Fuller, U of L Conservatory of Music Piano Faculty and Kindermusik Coordinator
THESE LESSONS WILL BE A LIFELONG GIFT THAT
YOU ARE GIVING YOUR CHILD, SOMETHING THEY
WILL CARRY WITH THEM FOREVER
6 ARTSBRIDGE
Music is a Secret Super Power
ARTSBRIDGE 7
The Economic Impact of the Arts in Lethbridge
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 arts have a significant economic impact in our economy.
In total 608 individuals are
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)
In Lethbridge, a total of
self-identified individuals are employed
as artists or by arts organizations.
608
20 million dollars
The total gross output of the
arts sector originating in the
City of Lethbridge is roughly
Approximately volunteers contribute over hours to arts organizations, the equivalent of about 36 more full time positions.
2,20064,000
300This equates to approximately
full time positions and
12 million dollars of earned revenue.
8 ARTSBRIDGE
rock n rolldream
no regrets
musicenergy
guitar
alive
WE SAT DOWN WITH ROZ JEFFERY,
CO-ORGANIZER OF THE LETHBRIDGE GIRLS
ROCK CAMP, TO LEARN A LITTLE MORE
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,
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
family and friends.
DISCOVERING COMMUNITY:
LethbridgeGirls Rock Camp
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
ARTSBRIDGE 9
DISCOVERING COMMUNITY:
LethbridgeGirls Rock Camp
10
10 ARTSBRIDGE
Joan Waterfield
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.
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.
He has touched the lives of countless people in all ages of our community and has taught the art
of theatre and inspired all to be the best they can be.
Congratulations Ed!
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.
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
Mayor Chris Spearman & AAC President Kris Hodgson present Ed Bayly with the award.
Memorial Award
ARTSBRIDGE 11
20
06
– L
IND
A B
AY
LY
Joan Waterfield
TEN YEARS OF THE JOAN WATERFIELD MEMORIAL AWARD
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.
PAST WINNERS...
20
05
– J
OA
N W
ATE
RFI
ELD
MEM
OR
IAL
AW
AR
D E
STA
BLI
SHED
20
13
- M
AR
GA
RET
MEZ
EI
2012 - ROBERT FENTON
20
11
– M
AU
REE
N C
HA
MB
ERS
&
TR
ENT
MO
RA
NZ
2010 - GEORGE & NELLIE MANN
20
09
– F
RA
NC
IS S
CH
ULT
Z
20
08
– V
AN
CH
RIS
TOU
20
07
– E
LAIN
E H
AR
RIS
ON
Memorial Award
12 ARTSBRIDGE
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 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
& Archives. Since 2010, the PANGAEA Diversity Café has brought in many diverse partners and has
met with great success. The PANGAEA Café’s have always utilized art and local entertainers to educate
about the importance of diversity and to create a collaboration of multi-culturalism that is free and
accessible with no barriers.
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
tattoo, sari tying and Jim Lacey’s combination band.
By R
oy P
ogor
zelsk
i
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.
InclusionArts, Entertainment, Inclusion
ArtsEntertainment
ARTSBRIDGE 13
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.
InclusionAside 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
black history month, as UNITAS partnered with the Afro-Canadian Association and the Galt Museum & Archives to
bring the community drumming, singing, dancing, Sudanese dancing, arts vendors and a fashion show.
In March, UNITAS took a break to focus on the 3rd CMARD Conference on providing the community with “Tools for
Action”. Again we were impressed by the Bhutanese Dancers, a Hoop Dancer, Tai Chi demonstration and a drama
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.
In June, UNITAS in partnership with the Galt Museum & Archives hosted the kickoff to Aboriginal Awareness week.
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
Tag your arts photos on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!
SHARE THE ARTS!
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
LOOKING BACK: �
14 ARTSBRIDGE
A l l i e d A r t s C o u n c i lA A C l e t h A A C l e t h
ARTSBRIDGE 15
LETHBRIDGE ARTS DAYSLOOKING BACK:
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!
16 ARTSBRIDGE
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.
An Open Invitation: Public programs at the University of Lethbridge Art Gallery
Why should kids have all the fun?
ARTSBRIDGE 17
Arising from this research, the U of L Art Gallery will be expanding our
existing public programs and adding new events in the upcoming year.
Much of the expansion will be through partnerships in community
events off campus, such as building from a pilot last year with the U
of L’s new Institute for Child and Youth Studies and Opokaa’sin Child
Development Centre. The new events, aimed primarily at adults, will be
focused on the Main Gallery space and will be open to everyone who
is interested.
Starting October 2, we will have a noon hour Knit n Knatter / Crochet
n Chatter. Inspired by programs at galleries in England, the event will
be open to all -- experienced crafty folk can bring their materials and
projects or new comers can come and try making a granny square with
the assistance of gallery staff and volunteers. The program will provide
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
time event, we know that it will probably be easier for on-campus
people to attend, but everyone is welcome. Perhaps avid knitters could
see it as a combined craft and exercise program -- the hike to and from
the visitor parking lot is an added bonus!
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
event will have a loose theme to give a starting point and some ideas,
however, people can also simply come for some social art making. The
gallery will provide some basic materials for new comers, or those who
are less picky, and staff and volunteers will be on hand if assistance
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).
The third new activity will be a social media artist-in-residence. The
“in-residence” part is about the artist taking over the U of L Art Gallery’s
Twitter and Facebook feeds, rather than actually being in town, and so
some of the artists will be in Lethbridge and others will log in from other
cities. The project will invite our social media audiences, whether local
or not, to respond to questions and discussion. The artist will then create
responses that will be posted on-line and also projected on the wall
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
a range of issues related to our built and natural environments. The up-
coming anniversaries in 2017 – 150th for Canadian confederation and
50th for the U of L – will also be a focus and address thinking about
what people would like to see in the next 50 years in Lethbridge and
for the campus.
The U of L Art Gallery will continue with our existing successful programs
such as Culture Vulture Saturdays, our on-line education component,
and the various connecting to collections projects, such as MmmPop
that started in the summer and runs into September. As always, all the
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).
The Knit n Knatter / Crochet n Chatter is slated for Thursdays at
noon, Nov. 13, 2014 - and more will be planned for 2015.
The Drawing Bar is scheduled for Thursday evenings, 7 – 9 pm, Oct.
16 and Nov 20, 2014 and Jan. 29 and Feb. 26, 2015. AB
T o l e a r n m o r e , v i s i t w w w . u l a g . c a
18 ARTSBRIDGE
In Memoriam: Clare Malmberg 1924 - 2014
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
or enjoying a performance from one of many of the city’s performing arts groups.
In order to undertake the responsibilities of community service, one must have the
support of one’s family. The Allied Arts Council wishes to extend not only our condolences
but also our deep appreciation to Clare’s wife Margaret, daughter Brynn, son Kevin and
families for their love and support of Clare both during his time on the Art’s Council and
throughout his life.
We are truly blessed to have known him.
To recognize a contributing member of the AAC family who has passed on, contact us at [email protected]
By Karen Kay
“I will always remember Clare as one the few
totally sincere people I have known, who did not
express negative comments about others.
He would help anyone at any time without any
thought of personal recognition or reward.
The world is a lesser place with his passing.”
Bob Baunton, friend and former AAC Board Member
Mayor’s Luncheonfor business and the arts
THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT PARTNERS:
2014 Allied Arts Council Excellence (AACE) Awards:Individual John SavillBusiness Royal LePage South Country Real EstateJoan Waterfield Memorial Award Edward Bayly
Congratulations
PLATINUM
GOLD SILVER BRONZE
JOAN WATERFIELD MEMORIAL AWARD
sponsored by:
ARTSBRIDGE 19
January - August 2014
Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge (AAC)
Advancing and enhancing the arts in Lethbridge since 1958
• Promoting the arts to the community
• Working to improve arts facilities in Lethbridge
• Providing collaborative opportunities for artists
• Advocating for the arts
Core funding support is gratefully received from:
support the
become an AAC member arts
318 - 7 Street South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 2G2 Fax 403.320.2450
Name
Organization/Business
Address
City Province
Postal Code Telephone
Website
NEW MEMBER RENEWAL
Allied $75Artist $25Associate $75Individual Friend $15Family Friend $25Business/Corporate Friend $75
Make a Donation$25 $50 $100 OtherA charitable tax receipt will be issued upon donation
I am interested in volunteering for the AAC
Card # Exp
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Method of paymentCash Cheque Visa Mastercard
Release: I, , authorize the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge to include my name in publications.
Signature:In accordance with the Government of Alberta’s Freedom of Information and Protection Privacy Act (FOIP)
Organizations, individuals and businesses can demonstrate support for the arts in Lethbridgewith an AAC membership!
For a full listing of member benefits, visit www.artslethbridge.org/join-us
Associate Members:AE Cross
Arts Touring Alliance of Alberta
Peak Vocational & Support Services
Red Engine Coffee
Smudge Art Studio
Family and Friend Members:Linda Chorney
Louise Drysdale and Susan Anderson
Paul Hall
Kristen Hood
Wendy Kaplan
Muffy McKay
Megan Peeke-Vout
Sandra J White
Artist Members: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
Follow us!
To recognize a contributing member of the AAC family who has passed on, contact us at [email protected]
A l l i e d A r t s C o u n c i lA A C l e t h A A C l e t h
calendar of eventsOctober
Casa GalleryTroy Nickle: A Window Through TimeMaria Madacky: White LabyrinthUntil October 25
Beyond Zed Gift CottageFall Into Autumn Open HouseOctober 4, 10am-5pm & October 5, 1pm-4pm
Abstractions & AppetizersOctober 24, 7pm
Empress TheatreChloe AlbertOctober 25, 7:30pm
Galt Museum & ArchivesTreasures & Curiosities The Sequel ExhibitionUntil January 2015Discovery Hall
Cemetery Tours by FlashlightOctober 10, 11, 23, 24, & 25St. Patrick’s Cemetery
The Geomatic AtticFred EaglesmithOctober 15, 8pmCollege Barn
The Harpoonist & the Axe MurdererOctober 17, 8pmGeomatic Attic
Jeremy Fisher October 22, 8pmGeomatic Attic
Ridley BentOctober 23, 8pmGeomatic Attic
Lethbridge Folk ClubBluegrass JamOctober 3 & 17, 7:30pmThe Wolf’s Den
Howlin’ Wolf Open StageOctober 10 & 24, 8pmThe Wolf’s Den
Lethbridge Public LibraryArt Exhibit by Brent CoultonSeptember 1 – October 31
Foreign Film FestivalOctober 21 – 24, 7pm Theatre Gallery
New West TheatreJake’s Gift by Julia MackeyOctober 1 – October 11, 7:30pmOctober 9 & 11, 1pmSterndale Bennett Theatre
Playgoers of Lethbridge The Dixie Swim Club by Jessie JonesOctober 22 – 25, 6pmCountry Kitchen Catering
Southern Alberta Art GalleryRaphaëlle de Groot:The Summit MeetingsAn Te Liu: In AbsentiaSeptember 27 to November 23
University of Lethbridge Art GalleryOther Worlds by Douglas WalkerSeptember 11 – October 26Main Gallery
MmmPopOctober 31 – December 23Helen Christou Gallery
University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine ArtsLunch and Listen Series, “Keys, Mallets, and Sticks”October 3, 12:15pmATB Financial Community Room, Casa
New Media Film Series: Common ChordOctober 8, 7pmLethbridge Public Library Theatre Gallery
Tribes by Nina RainesOctober 14 – October 18, 8pmOctober 18, 2pmDavid Spinks Theatre
French Fried BrassOctober 18, 8pmATB Financial Community Room, Casa
Music at Noon, Dr. Gary ReevesOctober 21, 12:15pmUniversity Recital Hall
Music at Noon, Sheila ChristieOctober 28, 12:15pmUniversity Recital Hall
New Media Film Series:An Evening with UPA AnimationOctober 29, 7pmLethbridge Public Library Theatre Gallery
Opera Workshop, “I do!”October 31, 8pmUniversity Recital Hall
November
CasaChristmas at CasaNovember 21, 5-9pm November 22, 10am – 5pmATB Financial Community Room
Casa GalleryLen Komanac- Dr. StrangeLen’s Pop Tarts and Burning ToastersLeila Armstrong- CoyoteOpening Reception: November 1, 7pmNovember 1 – December 27
FEATURE: A Festival of Film & Fine WineNovember 7 & 8, 6:30pm
Empress TheatreSteve Coffey & The LokelsNovember 15, 7:30pm
Galt Museum & ArchivesTreasures & Curiosities The Sequel ExhibitionUntil January 2015Discovery Hall
Night at the Museum Shopping EventNovember 27, 4pm
Geomatic AtticAn Evening with Jill BarberNovember 3, 8pmSouthminster United Church
The StrumbellasNovember 4, 8pmGeomatic Attic
Black UmfolosiNovember 21, 8pmGeomatic Attic
Helen Schuler Nature CentreChristmas CraftsNovember 13 & 14, 7pm
Lethbridge Folk ClubBluegrass Circle JamNovember 7 & 21, 8pmWolf’s Den
Howlin’ Wolf Open StageNovember 14 & 28, 8pmWolf’s Den
Lethbridge Community Gold BandAutumn Gold - Around the WorldNovember 1, 7:30pmSouthminster United Church
Always & Forever Remembrance Day ConcertNovember 8, 7:30pmSterndale Bennett Theatre
Lethbridge Symphony OrchestraChamber Series II, Romance, Old & NewNovember 7, 8pmSouthminster United Church
University of Lethbridge Art GalleryMmmPopUntil December 23Helen Christou Gallery
Seth: DominionNovember 7 – January 15Main Gallery
University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine ArtsLunch and Listen Series, “Scenes from Famous Operas”November 7, 12:15pmATB Financial Community Room, Casa
Opera Workshop, “I do!”November 1, 8pmUniversity Recital Hall
New Media Film Series, Blade RunnerNovember 12, 7pmLethbridge Public LibraryTheatre Gallery
Computer BluesNovember 15, 8pmUniversity Recital Hall
Maraca2 Percussion DuoNovember 16, 8pmUniversity Recital Hall
Sauce for the Goose by Georges FeydeauNovember 18 – 22, 8pmUniversity Theatre
U of L Singers “How Can I Keep From Singing?”November 22, 8pmUniversity Recital Hall
Paris SketchesNovember 25, 8pmUniversity Theatre
New Media Film Series, HerNovember 26, 7pmLethbridge Public Library Theatre Gallery
A Celebration of LiederNovember 26, 8pmUniversity Recital Hall
Global DrumsNovember 29, 8pmUniversity Theatre
october
20 ARTSBRIDGE
november
calendar of events
Allied Arts Councilwww.artslethbridge.org
Empress Theatrewww.empresstheatre.ab.ca
Galt Museum & Archiveswww.galtmuseum.com
The Geomatic Atticwww.geomaticattic.ca
Lethbridge Community Band Societywww.lcbs.ca
Lethbridge Folk Clubwww.lfc.ab.ca
Lethbridge Musical Theatrewww.lethbridgemusicaltheatre.ca
Lethbridge Public Librarywww.lethlib.ca
Lethbridge Symphony Orchestrawww.lethbridgesymphony.org
New West Theatrewww.newwesttheatre.com
Playgoers of Lethbridgewww.playgoers.ca
Southern Alberta Art Gallerywww.saag.ca
U of L Art Gallerywww.ulag.ca
U of L Faculty of Fine Artswww.uleth.ca/finearts/events
December
Casa GalleryLen Komanac- Dr. StrangeLen’s Pop Tarts and Burning ToastersLeila Armstrong- CoyoteUntil December 27
Empress TheatreFoothills BrassDecember 18, 7:30pm
Galt Museum & ArchivesTreasures & Curiosities The Sequel ExhibitionUntil January 2015Discovery Hall
Lethbridge Community Band23rd Annual Mayor’s Christmas ConcertDecember 13, 7:30pmSouthminster United Church
Lethbridge Folk ClubBluegrass Circle JamDecember 5 & 19 , 8pmWolf’s Den
Howlin’ Wolf Open StageDecember 12 & 26, 8pmWolf’s Den
New West TheatreJubilee: The Best of New WestDecember 15 – January 3, 7:30pmDecember 26 & January 3, 1pmDecember 27, 3:30pmYates Memorial Theatre
The Great Munsch MysteryDecember 22 – January 3, 3:30pmDecember 23, 26, 27, 28, 31 & January 1, 1pmJanuary 2, 7pmSterndale Bennett Theatre
Lethbridge Symphony OrchestraMessiahDecember 7, 3pmDecember 8, 8pmSouthminster United Church
Southern Alberta Art GalleryAmalie Atikins: we live on the edge of disaster and imagine we are in a musicalElaine Stocki: 711Opening reception: December 6, 8pmDecember 6, 2014 to February 1, 2015
University of Lethbridge Art GalleryMmmPopUntil December 23Helen Christou Gallery
Seth: DominionUntil January 15Main Gallery
University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine ArtsU of L Jazz EnsembleDecember 3, 8pmUniversity Theatre
New Media Film Series, My WinnipegDecember 17, 7pmLethbridge Public Library Theatre Gallery
January
Casa GalleryPaintings by Donna BilykMedia work by Nicole LalondeJanuary 10 – February 28
Empress TheatreCowtown Opera CompanyJanuary 24, 7:30pm
Galt Museum & ArchivesTreasures & Curiosities The Sequel ExhibitionSeptember 26 to January 2015Discovery Hall
Lethbridge Folk ClubBluegrass Circle JamJanuary 2 & 16, 8pmWolf’s Den
Howlin’ Wolf Open StageJanuary 9 & 23, 8pmWolf’s Den
Lethbridge Symphony OrchestraSymphony Series III, Dido & AeneasJanuary 16 & 17, 8pmSouthminster United Church
New West TheatreJubilee: The Best of New WestUntil January 3, 7:30pmJanuary 3 matinee, 1pmYates Memorial Theatre
The Great Munsch MysteryJanuary 1, 1pmJanuary 2, 7pmSterndale Bennett Theatre
Southern Alberta Art GalleryAmalie Atikins: we live on the edge of disaster and imagine we are in a musicalElaine Stocki: 711Until February 1
University of Lethbridge Art GallerySeth: DominionUntil January 15Main Gallery
SelfiesJanuary 22 – March 19Main Gallery
University of Lethbridge Faculty of Fine ArtsLunch & Listen Series January 2, 12:15pmATB Financial Community
February
Casa GalleryPaintings by Donna BilykMedia work by Nicole LalondeJanuary 10 – February 28
Lethbridge Folk ClubBluegrass Circle JamFebruary 6 & 20, 8pmWolf’s Den
Howlin’ Wolf Open StageFebruary 13 & 27, 8pmWolf’s Den
Lethbridge Symphony OrchestraLove NotesFebruary 7, 6pmCasa
Playgoers of LethbridgeLeading Ladies by Ken LudwigFebruary 11 – 14, 8pmYates Memorial Centre
Southern Alberta Art GalleryAmalie Atikins: we live on the edge of disaster and imagine we are in a musicalElaine Stocki: 711Until February 1
University of Lethbridge Art GallerySelfiesJanuary 22 – March 19Main Gallery
december
Contact information for each event/organization:
january
february
On the cover: Work by Eric Dyck