ArtWalk expands with more businesses, artists

ArtWalk has expanded to include 31 artists displaying their work in a wide range of media in 31 businesses across Mountain View and Red Deer counties this summer.

Everything from pottery, jewelry and various types of painting to photography went on display June 28 at participating businesses in Olds, Sundre, Carstairs, Didsbury and Innisfail and will be on display until September 6.

Since Gayle Kohut, coordinator of ArtWalk, joined the effort two years ago, more artists, businesses and communities have gotten on board. More brochures promoting ArtWalk have been printed as well.

Kohut said both artists and businesses see the benefits of ArtWalk.

“The businesses like (ArtWalk) because it brings people in their business that wouldn't normally enter into their doors and for the artists it's exposure, and for all summer long. It's a unique tourist thing to do,” said Kohut.

Kohut said feedback usually comes in at the end of the summer when a survey goes to businesses and artists. Last year, she said more businesses were interested in joining.

“It's a good way for a business to redecorate an area and it shows their community spirit,” she said.

ArtWalk proves there is a vibrant art scene in the area with talented artists, she said.

All the artists who participate have had their work selected by a panel to be a part of the exhibition.

“It's top-quality merchandise for people to buy in the businesses. (ArtWalk) is really growing because I think (businesses) like the conversation. It's a good way for people to expand their art,” she said.

Marjorie Vetter, a veteran artist and participant in ArtWalk, said one of the most important benefits of ArtWalk is getting noticed as an artist.

Vetter has been doing oil paintings and drawings for 40 years, and currently has pieces hanging in the Different Strokes gallery in Olds as part of ArtWalk.

She also has art hanging in Red Deer and several other places in Olds.

“Sometimes I have a show going on elsewhere and I don't have extra stuff (to participate in ArtWalk),” she said.

Vetter said one of the other benefits of ArtWalk is exposing more people to art.

“A lot of people kind of think it's exotic and far away from anything they're involved in and it's not, really,” she said. “Some people think art is terribly expensive because they read about auctions at (Southeby's) and they think, ‘Oh my goodness, we could never even afford that' but most art isn't that pricey at all.”