Contributed by the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance
Taking place August 13–14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Columbia Basin Culture Tour allows you to explore artists' studios, museums, art galleries and heritage sites during this free, self-guided event. Travel to studios and archives that aren't normally open, see demonstrations, new exhibitions and collections or meet people behind the scenes. To participate in the tour, simply grab a map, your Culture Tour Directory and go!
Joining the Culture Tour this year is LoveMaking Designs Studio Boutique in Grizzly Plaza in downtown Revelstoke. LoveMaking Designs is an artist-owned and operated studio boutique featuring the artwork of Trish Hartwick as well as other Canadian artists. The boutique is filled with many lovely pieces by local artists including Jumping Creek Pottery, Jo C Willems and Kalika Jewellery Designs, as well as other artists from Western Canada. Trish Hartwick's work is whimsical, inspired by the mountains and nature around Revelstoke, then painted or silkscreened onto different canvases such as clothing or wood.
Art First! is a local cooperative, showcasing 13 different artists at 113 First St. West. Media include watercolours, acrylics, photography, textiles, ceramics, metal sculpture, wood sculpture and jewellery. All work is original and much of the work displayed portrays the beauty of the Revelstoke, Columbia and Kootenay regions. This is a wonderful space to come and view various artists' work. All work is for sale and prices are extremely reasonable.
The Fierce Art Project is at the Revelstoke Visual Art Centre for the Columbia Basin Culture Tour. The Fierce Art Project is an eclectic group of artists that meets regularly to support the artistic endeavours of its members and has matured into a network of like-minded individuals with unique artistic voices. The artists first met in a drawing class where it all began with sketching simple lines. For the Culture Tour the group will be presenting "Roots-Stumped-Growth," an interactive exhibit that invites visitors to experience the Fierce Art Project’s progression from its humble roots, through the steps of completing exhibition-quality work, to the final courageous leap of 'hanging it on the wall.' The artists welcome you to come along, pick up a pencil, and join in the celebration of creative growth.
Tour brochures are available at tourist information centres and participating venues. Visit the website at www.cbculturetour.com to view full artist/venue profiles for further details on each location’s activities or register to receive a tour brochure in the mail. For further information, call the CKCA at 1-250-505-5505 or toll free at 1-877-505-7355. The Columbia Basin Culture Tour is generously supported by Columbia Basin Trust funding.