The annual ArtWalk has concluded its fifth consecutive year in five area towns as of Sept. 6, and organizers from Wellspring Visual ArtNetwork Association say they are pleased with the summer's turnout of interest.
“When local businesses support local visual artists like this, it creates an opportunity to contribute to the rural community's artistic culture,” said Carroll Smith, the co-coordinator of the association.
A total of 33 businesses in Carstairs, Didsbury, Olds, Sundre, and Innisfail took part in the 11-week exhibition of more than 40 local artists, who offered art in a variety of media, including watercolour, photography, pastel, acrylic, ceramics, and glass (to name a few).
“The vision and prime directive is to advance and promote appreciation of visual arts in this rural community,” said Michelle Brewster, the association's president.
Smith said some of the artists were fortunate enough to sell to international buyers this year.
“A great many compliments were received from those who took in ArtWalk this summer,” said Smith.
Out-of-towners Mavis Prevost of Lacombe and her friend Cindy Jackson made a trip to Olds to shop, when they noticed the ArtWalk signs and proceeded to check out exhibits in businesses on 51 St.
“It was a neat interlude,” said Jackson. “It's a really great way to feature the artists.”
“I think it's a great idea,” Prevost concurred.
The ArtWalk began in 2007 after a collection of artists and interested patrons noticed (at the time) there were no public art galleries in the area in which art could be displayed and sold.
“Artists couldn't support and promote one another,” said Brewster in a media release.
Brewster added that Wellspring Visual ArtNetwork is very proud of its diverse members and their visual creativity.
The group is always seeking new members, and welcomes all ages, said Smith.
Membership applicants have their work assessed before a jury to ensure the quality of work is up to a specific standard.
Member artists are now gearing up for the annual fall Show and Sale, which will be held in the Olds Recreation Center, Sqd. #185 Olds Air Cadet Hall on Saturday October 22 and Sunday 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
