Kick starting art in the community

Sharon McLeay
Times Contributor

 

Wheatland Society of Arts (WSA) has moved into new digs, and everyone is invited to drop in and see what programs are being offered in 2017.
The WSA held open house celebrations at the new location – 115 Third Ave. – on Dec. 10, and an open studio on Dec. 13 and 15.
“We are poised to actively pursue the vision laid out. This is the start we needed to make the vision a reality and we are pouring all our energies into it,” said WSA president Brandy Hebbes. “We are determined to grab this opportunity and make something of it.”
The society will coordinate with other groups in the community and supplement programming, rather than duplicate services. With three dedicated studio spaces, gallery area and lobby, they will provide classes and weekend workshops, space for artists to work, and drop-in sessions for artistic explorations. They also want to set up partnerships with businesses to showcase artwork. They will offer educational components and participate and generate art exhibits, shows, fairs and sales, and spearhead regional and provincial art competitions.
Hebbes has been circulating to various municipal council meetings to present their good news and generate excitement about their lineup of ideas for the arts community in this region. She and the WSA board are actively seeking funding to help the society’s efforts. They are applying for $75,000 from the Community Initiative Program, applying for a $15,000 grant through the Town of Strathmore Community Investment grant towards a youth art program, and asking Wheatland County for money from the Community Enhancement grant to offer seniors and disabled programming. Donations will be accepted and raffles and fundraising events will be held.
During Hebbes’ presentation at a recent Strathmore town council meeting, town councillor Denise Peterson noted: “From the planning that has gone into this, it is clear to me that the expertise that has gone into this has manifested itself and has been a long time in the works. What you have presented here is astounding and stellar.”
Peterson suggested the $75,000 needed could be designated under the Canada 150 project and asked town staff to look into whether funding under that allotment could be found for the WSA.
Hebbes said there are many reasons that art is good for individuals and communities.
“There are both physical and mental benefits from creating art, expressing yourself in a tangible way and sharing something with the world,” noted Hebbes. “Art offers an outlet and release from all of the inputs that bombard our lives.”