West Kootenay Regional Arts Council

Tzeporah Berman – Lean in and Listen: Building Bridges in a World on Fire
2024-05-01 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Vancouver) | The Capitol Theatre, 421 Victoria Street, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 5R2, Canada
Tzeporah Berman shares surprising lessons that she has learned about finding common ground with logging executives and with the oil industry. Berman made her name as a leader of the protests against logging in Clayoquot Sound over 30 years ago and is today one of
Canada’s best-known environmental activists.
Hear renowned environmental activist Tzeporah Berman reflects on 30 years of advocacy for old growth forests and climate justice.
MIR LECTURE
PRESENTED BY THE MIR CENTRE FOR PEACE SPRING 2024
Performance venue:
The Capitol Theatre
421 Victoria Street
Nelson, BC V1L 5R2
Phone: (250) 352-6363

"Rewired" by Sab Curtis
2024-05-02 - 2024-05-12 | 167 Deer Park Avenue, Kimberley, BC, V1A 2J5, 167 Deer Park Avenue, Kimberley, V1A 2J5
The Art of Transforming Trauma into Inspiration
“Rewired”
Art became an unexpected silver lining for West Kootenay-based artist Sab Curtis during her transformative journey through recovery from a traumatic brain injury. Beginning to put brush to canvas as a therapeutic outlet in 2020, Sab hasn’t stopped painting since. Sab is excited to announce her upcoming solo art exhibit entitled “Rewired,” featuring a collection of acrylic landscape paintings inspired by her deep connection to nature and newfound passion for art. The exhibit is open to inspire visitors at Art Gallery Kimberley in BC’s Best Small Town from May 2 – 12, 2024.
Sab Curtis, a self-taught artist and adventure enthusiast, discovered the healing quality of art while recovering from her injury. Drawing on her lifelong hobby of photographing natural landscapes, Sab’s artworks reflect her personal metamorphosis and the role nature played in her recovery process—a journey she describes as confusing and chaotic. Through “Rewired,” Sab invites visitors to experience the varied moods and emotions that have shaped her transformation, from calm reflections to complex expressions of resilience.
An engineer by profession, Sab has translated her problem-solving skills to her creative practice through cognitive “rewiring.” She explains, “My neural pathways have transformed from analysing data to construing the mixing of hues and tapestry of brushstrokes.”
Mother Nature is Sab’s greatest muse, continually inspiring her work through adventures by foot, bike, or skis, providing inspiration for her next body of work. Sab says, “My adventures mould me, and each canvas becomes my journal to translate what I discover through my wanders. My art practice began as a way to feel nurtured by nature’s magnificence when I was experiencing physical and cognitive limits due to injury, and my evolving creative practice has helped me comprehend the unplanned pivot in my life.”
To celebrate the opening of the exhibit, Sab invites everyone to a lively reception on Friday, May 3, from 7 – 9 pm. The event will feature live painting, audience participation in a community painting, live music by Ivan Palomares, and light refreshments. Additionally, on Sunday, May 12, at 3 pm, Sab will host a special artist talk during the closing reception, with a nice treat for all mothers and mother figures in attendance.
Sab’s unique perspective and artistic talent highlight the resilience and adaptability that lies within us all. We invite art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to experience this powerful exhibition at Art Gallery Kimberley between May 2 – 12, 2024. Sab’s exhibit welcomes visitors from Thursday through Sunday, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, and from Monday to Wednesday by appointment. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the beauty and strength in Sab’s “Rewired” collection.

"Tides" by Neal Panton
2024-05-02 - 2024-05-12 | 167 Deer Park Avenue, Kimberley, BC, V1A 2J5, 167 Deer Park Avenue, Kimberley, V1A 2J5
The Art of Capturing Moments of Change
“Tides”
Cranbrook-based photographer Neal Panton reveals his latest solo exhibit, “Tides,” at Art Gallery Kimberley in BC’s Best Small Town from May 16th to May 26th, 2024. The exhibit invites viewers to explore the fleeting moments of change captured along the Pacific North Coast, including Haida Gwaii, the North Coast Trail on Vancouver Island, and the Oregon Coast.
Born and raised in Hamilton, Ontario, Neal Panton developed a passion for photography from an early age. As a self-taught photographer, a former university professor of Photography and Visual Language, as well as a photojournalist for Reuters news agency, Neal brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his work. His passion for storytelling through images is apparent in every piece featured in “Tides,” creating an immersive experience for all who visit the exhibit.
Inspired by the beauty and complexity of the moments in between, “Tides” showcases Neal’s distinctive photographic style, reminiscent of the darkroom photography process executed through the use of modern photo editing software. Through a combination of intuition and skill, Neal’s photographs reflect a sense of contemplation and introspection, inviting viewers to find their own unique connection to the images.
According to Neal, photography as an art form has unique characteristics. He explains, “In most traditional art forms, like painting, sculpture, drawing, and even etching, you can visibly see the artist’s handiwork—the brushstrokes, the lines, the shaping of the material. However, photography is different. Often, it appears captured rather than crafted. Its construction is less clear. As an art form, photography is also more accessible. Almost anyone can engage in photography, regardless of their background or expertise.”
Unlike social media snapshots, the photographs showcased in galleries invite us to pause and ponder, revealing deeper meaning within each frame. Neal aims to connect with viewers on a deeper level, seeking friends who share an appreciation for the beauty and wonder of nature.
“Tides” explores the moments in between——pauses, transitions, and liminal spaces where change is imminent. These photographs highlight the in-between spaces along the Pacific North Coast, representing a shift from one state to another, often feeling uncertain and detached from reality.
The opening reception for “Tides” will take place on Friday, May 17th, between 7 and 9 pm. Art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike are invited to experience Neal’s moving photography at Art Gallery Kimberley between May 16 – 26, 2024. The exhibit welcomes visitors from Thursday through Sunday, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, and accommodates appointments from Monday to Wednesday. Don’t miss this opportunity to take in the beauty and complexity of the moments in between.
For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact Art Gallery Kimberley at 250-432-9225 or info@artgallerykimberley.com.

Author Reading Series: Corinna Chong + Matt Rader (event)
2024-05-03 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Vancouver) | Oxygen Art Centre, 320 Vernon St Unit-3, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 4E4, Canada
Event: Friday, May 3, 2024 @ 7 PM (Free!)
All held at Oxygen’s facility (#3-320 Vernon St., Nelson, BC)
Oxygen Art Centre is delighted to present the second event of 2024’s Author Reading Series featuring Corinna Chong and Matt Rader at an in-person reading event on Friday, May 3, 2024 @ 7 PM.
This event is free, everyone welcome! No registration is required.
The event will feature readings by Chong and Rader, in addition to an emerging writer in the Selkirk College Creative Writing program. A short question and answer period will close the event.
This program is generously supported by the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance. Learn more about this event and upcoming events and workshops, here.

GRAPHIC NOVEL AUTHOR TALK!
2024-05-03 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Vancouver) | Kaslo & District Public Library, 413 4th St, Kaslo, V0G 1M0
The story of a Kootenay summer: forests are burning, activists are blockading, and a rookie wildfire fighter joins her first crew. A sneak peek at We Were Found in the Fires, with writer-artists @nathancomics and Anne DeGrace.
May 3rd at 7:00 pm

Langham Gallery Opening Night
2024-05-10 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Vancouver) | The Langham, 447 A Avenue, Kaslo, BC, V0G 1M0, Canada
Opening night at the Langham in Kaslo. Join us from 7-9 pm on Friday May 10 at the gallery for the opening of 2 new exhibits:
‘Hidden in Plain Sight’ by Lorenzo Pepito and ‘Lands Far Away’ by Abby Wilson. Come out and enjoy an evening of artist talks, refreshments, and of course, Art!
This event is free – everyone welcome.

Lands Far Away – Opening Reception
2024-05-10 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Vancouver) | The Langham, 447 A Avenue, Kaslo, BC, V0G 1M0, Canada
Join us @ The Langham in Kaslo, on Friday May 10 from 7-9 pm for the opening of ‘Lands Far Away’ by Nelson based artist Abby Wilson. Come and meet the artist and enjoy an evening of art with us! This event is free and open to everyone.
“Lands Far Away ” pushes the boundaries between imagination and reality, stretching familiar Kootenay landscapes into deeper fantasy worlds. Nelson artist Abby Wilson gathers reference material while hiking in the mountains, focusing on capturing local landscapes that remind her of JRR Tolkein’s poetic descriptions of Middle Earth. Wilson’s photos and Tolkein’s phrases are used to prompt Midjourney Artificial Intelligence (AI), creating unique landscapes fed by multiple imaginations. Wilson revises the generated landscapes, and then paints them in her own style.

Met Opera: Madama Butterfly
2024-05-11 09:55 - 13:30 (America/Vancouver) | The Royal Theatre, 1597 Bay Ave, Trail, V1R 4B2, Canada
Extraordinary soprano Asmik Grigorian tackles the demanding role of Cio-Cio-San, the loyal geisha at the heart of Puccini’s devastating tragedy. Tenor Jonathan Tetelman stars as the callous American naval officer Pinkerton, whose betrayal destroys her.
Live Streamed Met Opera, held at The Royal Theatre in Trail BC

Saturday Storytime & Author Reading
2024-05-11 10:30 - 12:00 (America/Vancouver) | Nelson Public Library, 602 Stanley St, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 1N4, Canada
Join local author Kathryn Hartley read from her new novel Castle Mountain at The Nelson Public Library
Author Reading at 10:30am
Followed by crafting from 11am to noon
Book will be available for purchase
Synopsis:
MOUNTAINS CAN BE MAGICAL PLACES.
BUT DANGER IS NEVER FAR AWAY.
There were two things Joanie knew for certain when she woke up that morning:
1. There was no way Mom was going to let any of them
get out of marching up a mountain today.
2. She didn’t want to be a part of this family any more.
Every May long weekend Joanie’s mom made the family do their traditional spring hike. At nine, Joanie thought she was old enough to go stay at a friend’s instead of trudging up a mountain. But Chloe, her annoying older sister, and Matt, her self-centered brother, had both tried that before and it had never worked for them. So she knew she was doomed to do it again today. They all were. When Mom said jump, they all jumped. Even Dad. And Dad was sick. No one talked about it but you’d have to be stupid not to notice.
Then there was Chloe and Matt. Both teenagers. Both with attitude. The thought of spending a whole day with them, with no escape, made her want to turn into a little black beetle and crawl under the bed.
The magic and mystery of Castle Mountain will hold all their lives in its stony grip. Joanie and her family will be challenged beyond anything they have ever faced before. Will they be able to overcome what the mountain has in store?

“Rossland Recollections” with Richie Mann
2024-05-22 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Vancouver) | Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre, 1100 Hwy 3B | Junction of Hwys 3B & 22, Rossland, BC, V0G 1Y0, Canada
Rossland Recollections is back – and so is Rossland legend Richie Mann, ready to regale us with tales of Rossland’s first farms and founding ski hills. Join us here at the Rossland Museum at 6 pm on Wednesday, May 22nd for an evening of stories, photographs, and magnificent memories, courtesy of Richie Mann!

Dandelion Festival
2024-05-25
A one day spring festival to celebrate the well being of ourselves and our communities. Live music, artisan market, amazing workshops, talks fun and interesting activities for everyone.

Kootenay EcoFest
2024-05-25 10:00 - 2024-05-26 17:00 (America/Vancouver) | Bear Spring Eco Retreat, 5248 Queen Victoria Road, Beasley, V0G 2G2
A celebration of sustainable action with local waste reduction solutions, live demonstrations, inspiring learning opportunities, regional food tasting and live music. All happening on our beautiful property, Bear Springs Eco Resort, in Beasley, BC.

To book accommodations during the festival, please contact us directly at info@bearspringeco.ca.

Tammy Marcer Gallery Show
2024-05-30 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Edmonton) | 601 1st Ave, Fernie BC
Artist Statement
Embarking on a journey through the vibrant landscapes of the Kootenays and beyond, I was awash with
a spectrum of colour and feeling that beckoned me to capture its essence. The picturesque scenery,
from verdant valleys to crystal-clear lakes, offered a canvas unlike any other. This adventure was not just
about travel; it was a pilgrimage in search of inspiration for what would become my first art gallery
exhibit: Kootenays in Colours.
My initial enchantment with the Kootenays was ignited by a single, captivating photograph that
showcased the areas awe-inspiring beauty under the glow of an afternoon sun. This image, alive with
vibrant hues and a tranquil yet wild essence, planted a seed within me. It was not long before this
blossomed into a fervent yearning to immerse myself in these landscapes, to see, feel, and ultimately
paint them through my own lens. This anticipation of discovery, of unearthing new vistas and hues, was
the wellspring of my inspiration. The natural splendor, and shifting seasons, unveiled fresh palettes and
moods, feeding my artistic vision and setting the stage for my journey into art.
Choosing the right venue was critical—a place that not only highlighted the art but also echoed the spirit
of the Kootenays. As I was born in Fernie, so shall be my art. The Arts Station was my only choice for my
first gallery show. It was an environment that promised engagement and appreciation from a diverse
audience. The vibrant colours and landscapes that I had so meticulously translated onto canvas will be
the subjects of admiration and critique. This vibrant interaction will be the ultimate affirmation of my
journey, a sign that my canvas has become a bridge. This bridge will be the link between my inner world
with the outer world of others, fostering a shared experience of wonder and reflection. I step into the
future, ready to embrace the myriad of colours and feelings that await me.
Artist Bio
Tammy is a digital artist, whose self-taught journey has culminated in a body of works as vibrant and
diverse as the experiences that have shaped her. Tammy strives to captivate viewers with a unique
blend of passion, emotion and depth. Tammy’s artistry is characterized by its dynamic use of color and
texture, creating works that are not just seen but also felt. Tammy’s approach to digital art is intuitive
and exploratory, pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques with innovative use of light and
shadow. From the serene landscapes to the chaotic abstracts, Tammy’s travels have been the
cornerstone of her artistic inspiration. Her portfolio is a rich tapestry of vivid colors, intricate patterns
and forceful compositions that reflect the diversity and beauty of the world as seen through her eyes.
Tammy’s work invites viewers on a visual journey that transcends boundaries and sparks the
imagination.
As she prepares for her first gallery show, Tammy stands at the cusp of a new chapter in her artistic
journey. Join Tammy as she embarks on this exciting phase of her career, and experience the world
through her inspired creations. Her gallery show is not just an exhibition – it’s a celebration of the
passion, perseverance and perspective that define her as an artist.

‘Big River’ book launch w/ Eileen Delehanty Pearkes and David Moskowitz
2024-06-01 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Vancouver) | Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, V1L 4E7, Canada
Big River: Resilience and Renewal in the Columbia Basin, a new photographically-driven book from award-winning photographer David Moskowitz, writer Eileen Delehanty Pearkes, and poet Claudia Castro Luna illuminates the hydrogeology, beauty, and activity of the Columbia River, while also highlighting current challenges facing the region and the riverkeepers working on sustainable solutions.
Join Eileen and David at the Nelson Museum for a multimedia presentation, discussion and book signing. The book showcases a multimedia journey along the Columbia River from source to sea, illuminating its natural wonders and human stories, while also highlighting the challenges facing the region and the people working on sustainable solutions.
This event is FREE and open to the public. Copies of Big River will be available for sale.

Artist Galadriel Watson at Kootenay Co-op Café
2024-06-03 - 2024-06-28 | Kootenay Co-op Café, 777 Baker Street, Nelson
Linocut prints from artist Galadriel Watson will be on display for purchase at Kootenay Co-op Café in Nelson for the month of June.
Galadriel’s linocut prints explore the power of art when it comes to expressing emotions, voicing opinions, and honouring the beauty and joy that surround us. To do so, she relies on bold, stylized graphics to create contemporary, unconventional, one-of-a-kind visuals, often incorporating words into her images, both English and French.

BATS Speaker Series at the Rossland Museum
2024-06-06 17:30 (America/Vancouver) | Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre, 1100 Hwy 3B | Junction of Hwys 3B & 22, Rossland, BC, V0G 1Y0, Canada
Here’s another event to make you go batty! Join us at the Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre at 5:30 pm on Thursday, June 6th for an exciting Speaker Event with Elodie Kuhnert. Entry by donation.
Elodie, the Kootenay Coordinator with the “Got Bats?” BC Community Bat Program, will help us discover the fascinating world of bats in an engaging presentation that explores their importance in our ecosystem. Learn all about bat biology, behaviour, and reproduction, and understand the critical role that bats play in our environment. We’ll discuss why bats are facing threats and how we can help protect them during a fascinating evening in the mysterious world of bats!

Art in the Library - Kootenay River Secondary School Senior Art Students
2024-06-07 15:00 - 16:30 (America/Edmonton) | Creston Valley Public Library – Teen Space, 531 16 Ave S, Creston, BC, V0B 1G5
Artists from the Senior Independent Art classes at Kootenay River Secondary School will be sharing their final projects in the new Teen Space in the Creston Valley Public Library. The artists, Amaleigh, Aspen, Chloe, Derri, Gracin, and Madison, all created new works for this exhibition based on the theme of Genres.
We will be hosting a public reception to celebrate the work of the artists, all are welcome.

‘We Love a Parade!’ installation launch
2024-06-13 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Vancouver) | Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, V1L 4E7, Canada
The Nelson Museum is officially launching a new permanent installation of We Love a Parade! featuring a localized timeline of events, images, and curatorial statements provided by Nelson Museum Curator Arin Fay, and Research Assistant Adrian Dunkerson.

The launch takes place on Thursday, June 13 from 5-7pm at the Museum, and will feature a screening of the 10-minute trailer for the documentary Queering the Interior, as well as an introduction from the film’s director Amy Bohigian, and a tour of the Queer Archives by Michael Wicks.

Refreshments will be provided by Kootenay Kombucha, Sprout Plant-Based Eatery, L&C French Bakery, and the Kootenay Co-op. Thank you to these incredible local businesses, and to the Columbia Basin Trust for supporting this celebration!

The event is free and open to the public. Happy Pride!

Kootenay Resilience Festival: Food Forum
2024-06-15 16:00 - 19:00 (America/Vancouver) | Kaslo Front Street Park, Kaslo, BC
The Kootenay Resilience Festival leverages the power of music to bring people together in order to foster critical action. As part of the festival’s Food Forum taking place at Front Street Park in Kaslo, attendees will be treated to performances by country star Shaela Miller and the vibrant DJ Raya Sun. Miller’s evolution in the music scene, marked by her soulful voice and sincere stage presence, brings a fresh sonic exploration, while DJ Raya Sun infuses the atmosphere with celebratory bliss through her eclectic mix of feel-good tunes. Beyond the musical offerings, the festival serves as a platform for dialogue and learning, with experts delving into topics like local growing, permaculture, and regenerative agriculture, paving the way for discussions on sustainable food strategies.

2024 Sinixt Canoe Journey Nelson Stop
2024-06-16 - 2024-06-17 | Capitol Theatre Nelson, 421 Victoria Street, Nelson
The Nelson stop of the Canoe Journey offers community members the chance to paddle alongside the traditional dugout canoes, discover the secrets of nature in our medicinal plant workshop, and enjoy live performances by Sinixt Members.
The Canoe Journey is a powerful assertion of the belief that Indigenous peoples of the region are stewards of the river and the salmon—one of their first foods. This journey highlights the vital connection between their language, culture, and the natural environment.
This event offers a transformative opportunity for the (Sinixt) Snayckstx/Arrow Lakes and Colville people (Snʕayckstx and Sxʷyʔiłp) to reconnect with their language, traditional territories, and waterways. The Salmon Ceremony, a traditional and spiritual practice, addresses the needs of both the people and the environment. This may be one of the most significant moments in history to amplify the Indigenous community’s voice regarding our shared responsibility to the land, waters, and natural environment.
Last year’s journey spanned 272 miles, from the Head Waters of the Columbia River at Revelstoke and Two Rivers, Washington, on the Spokane Indian Reservation, culminating at the Kettle Falls Fishery and traditional Salmon Ceremony site.
This year’s sponsors are:
Columbia Power Corporation, West Kootenay Regional Arts Council, Nelson Museum, Archives and Gallery, The Capitol Theatre, Real Estate Foundation of BC, The Nelson Chamber of Commerce, Lalin Vocal Ensemble, Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism, VIDEA, BC Arts Council, The City of Nelson, Canadian Heritage, The Hume Hotel.
Below is a full list of free community opportunities. Be sure to find the separate events on this website for the Plant Workshop (taking place upstairs at The Station) and the afternoon and evening events (taking place at the Capitol Theatre) to register and/or get free tickets!
June 16
Morning
Paddlers arrive at Lakeside Park (across from concession building)
Craft tables at Lakeside Park – Rotary Shelter
10:00AM – NOON – Indigenous Plant Workshop @ at THE INNOVATION CENTRE ON THE MAIN FLOOR OF “THE STATION” (91 Baker Street)
TO REGISTER, PLEASE SEE SEPARATE EVENT ON THIS WEBSITE
Led by: Faith Zacharle and Rob Crandall
Join us for a hands-on plant fibre processing and traditional medicine making workshop led by Sinixt knowledgeable keeper Faith Zacherle and native plant specialist Rob Crandall. Learn about traditional plant uses and their significance to the Sinixt people. This workshop is a unique opportunity to connect with indigenous culture and deepen your understanding of local flora.
This event is free and open to all members of the public to attend, however space is limited to 25 participants, so sign up soon to secure your spot!
3:00PM – 5:00PM – Canoe Journey: Afternoon Event @ the Capitol Theatre
FOR FREE TICKETS, PLEASE SEE SEPARATE EVENT ON THIS WEBSITE
Introduction Janice Morrison, Mayor
Welcome by Shelly Boyd and Cindy Marchand
Film screening: Resist Reframe
Film screening: Beyond Bigbie
Storyteller: Dan Nanamkin
Spoken Word Artist and Poet: Stevey Seymour
Film screening: Scattered Roots
Spoken word artist James Pakootas
Film screening: Calling the Salmo Home
Film screening: Canoe Journey
Q&A with Filmmaker Derrick LaMere
7:00PM – 8:30PM Canoe Journey: Evening Event @ the Capitol Theatre
Concert: Tony Louie with James Pakootas and CarliAnn Forthun Bruner (multi-media presentation, “Coming Home”)
FOR FREE TICKETS, PLEASE SEE SEPARATE EVENT ON THIS WEBSITE
Introduction for event: Brittny Anderson
Welcome by Shelly Boyd and Cindy Marchand
Spoken Word Artist: James Pakootas
Singer/Songwriter: Tony Louie
June 17
10:00AM – NOON
10:00AM: meet at Lakeside Park and paddle to view pictographs and hold ceremony – Community is invited to join in/on non-motorized boats/boards, launch point for Sinixt canoes at Lakeside Park or end of airfield at Nelson Recycling Depot (Lakeside Drive) depending on weather.

ArtWalk Nelson Opening Night #1
2024-06-29 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Vancouver) | Downtown Nelson, Various, BC, Canada
The Nelson and District Arts Council invites you to hit the streets and celebrate the 36th annual ArtWalk. Wander the streets taking in the amazing talent of over 40 artists at 30 unique venues, where singers, dancers, musicians, and more will entertain you and all the other art lovers as you discover the diversity of talent. The first opening is on Saturday, June 29th from 6-9pm. This is a free, family-friendly event.
Maps will be available at participating businesses, local cafes and shops, and the Nelson Visitor Centre.
You can also find the map online here: https://ndac.ca/programs/artwalk/

Mountain Mosaic: Festival of the Arts 2024
2024-07-01 12:00 - 15:00 (America/Edmonton) | Pynelogs Cultural Centre & Park, 1720 4 Ave, Invermere, BC, V0A 1K0
CV Arts is thrilled to be bringing back Mountain Mosaic to the Columbia Valley community!
We’re hosting a free party in the park and everyone is invited to celebrate local art and culture!
Following the Invermere Canada Day Parade, Join us at Pynelogs Cultural Centre Park for local live music from:
Blitzen Coast • Tryg Strand and the Band • OIN • Second Winds Brass Band • Rhythm by Nature Community Drumming •
Blackstar Studios Live Community Mural • Purcell Mountain Painters Gallery Exhibition • Face Painting • Inflatable Carnival • Family Fun Entertainment and Activities • Food Trucks • Artisan Market • 50/50 Draw • And so much more…
None of this would be possible without the generous support of:
Columbia Basin Trust
District of Invermere
Travel Columbia Valley
Black Star Studios
FarOut Gear Rentals
Invermere Home Hardware
Fehr Seasons HVAC
Cris Leonard @ Royal LePage – Rockies West Realty

‘Utopia Unveiled: Intentional Communities in the Kootenays’ exhibition opening
2024-07-05 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Vancouver) | Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, V1L 4E7, Canada
The history of communal living is the subject of Utopia Unveiled: Intentional Communities in the Kootenays, the latest history exhibition at the Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, which opens Friday, July 5 at 7pm and runs through September 28. Utopia Unveiled features artifacts, photographs, and stories from the Shawn Lamb Archives and the Doukhobor Discovery Centre, as well as many contributions from community members. A new documentary film produced by the Museum will also be screened throughout the show, featuring interviews with people reflecting on their story.

‘Utopia Unveiled’ exhibition
2024-07-06 - 2024-09-28 | Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery, 502 Vernon Street, Nelson, V1L 4E7, Canada
The history of communal living is the subject of Utopia Unveiled: Intentional Communities in the Kootenays, the latest history exhibition at the Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery. Utopia Unveiled features artifacts, photographs, and stories from the Shawn Lamb Archives and the Doukhobor Discovery Centre, as well as many contributions from community members. A new documentary film produced by the Museum will also be screened throughout the show, featuring interviews with people reflecting on their story.

An Evening with Geoff Powter
2024-07-11 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Vancouver) | Nelson United Church, 602 Silica Street, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 4N1, Canada
On July 11, 2024 at 7:00 p.m., award-winning writer, climber, and adventurer Geoff Powter will present a behind-the-scenes look at his new book, Survival is Not Assured: The Life of Climber Jim Donini.
Survival is Not Assured launched June 1, 2024 and quickly climbed to the top of the bestseller list in Climbing and Mountaineering on Amazon in Canada, the US, and the UK. The book tells the remarkable story of Jim Donini, an icon of American climbing for the past 50 years. It explores Jim’s groundbreaking climbs and his tumultuous experiences both on and off the rock. From the tragic death of his best friend in a car accident, to his integral role in the Yosemite “Valley Uprising,” Jim’s life has been a roller coaster of highs and lows, but his spirit of resilience and determination has been unyielding. Through personal interviews and never-before-shared stories, Survival is Not Assured examines the life and legacy of this iconic climber, providing an inspiring and thought-provoking look at an American legend.
Geoff Powter served as editor of the Canadian Alpine Journal for 13 years and has won 13 National Magazine Awards. His last book, Inner Ranges, won the Climbing Literature Prize at Banff in 2019 and the National Outdoor Book Award in the US. He has hosted the Voices of Adventure interview event at the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival for 25 years.
Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. at the Nelson United Church for a 7:00 p.m. showtime. Books will be available for purchase. Geoff will present a photo slide show and read excerpts from Survival is Not Assured. He will be available after presenting to sign books.
Tickets are $10 and available for purchase here. The Nelson Adventure Speaker series will be donating ticket sale proceeds to the Kootenay Climbing Association in support of building a new climbing and community centre in Nelson.
The Nelson Adventure Speaker Series is a non-profit endeavor, made possible with help from its partners and sponsors: Kootenay Mountain Culture; Notably, a Book Lover’s Emporium; Otter Books; Elephant Mountain Literary Festival; Whitewater Ski Resort; and Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism.

Do you want to learn to paint the portrait in oils?
2024-07-13 10:00 - 2024-07-14 16:00 (America/Vancouver) | Nelson United Church, 602 Silica Street, Nelson, British Columbia, V1L 4N1, Canada
Kristy Gordon is teaching a contemporary Portrait Painting Workshop in Nelson July 13th and 14th at 602 Silica Street from 10am to 4pm each day (with a one hour break for lunch). This two-day portrait painting workshop will have an in-depth focus on painting the facial features, as well as how to place them in the right place on the face. Artists of all levels will learn the principles of color mixing as well as brush technique. The course will center on the experience of painting from a live model. Students will learn how to achieve a better likeness as well as how to paint convincing flesh tones. The class will include painting demonstrations, discussions and individual instruction at the easel. The beginner will learn fundamental principles such as how to blend paint and render light and shadow. The more advanced student will discover how to take their work to the next level and achieve the finish that they desire. Participants can use any painting medium that they would like in the class. Kristy will be doing demonstrations in oils and will provide a suggested supplies list for those who want to use oil paints.

The Art of Adornment
2024-07-15 - 2024-08-15 | VISAC Gallery, 1501 Cedar Avenue, Trail, V1R 2J5
Experience the artistry up close and personal in this exhibition that explores themes of environment, technology and self-expression. Participants of The Art of Adornment designed wearable art for this juried fashion show. Presented in collaboration with the Rossland Council for Arts and Culture (RCAC).
Events and Activities:
August 10-11 @ 10am-5pm: Visit the VISAC Gallery during the Columbia Basin Culture Tour to engage with the exhibition and participate in a recycled art workshop.

Author Event: Joseph Kakwinokanasum
2024-07-16 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Edmonton) | Huckleberry Books Inc, 16 9 Ave S, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 2L8
Named a “Rising Star” by the Writer’s Trust of Canada, and described as a “born storyteller,” Joseph Kakwinokanasum will be reading from his first novel, My Indian Summer.
This event is free, but due to limited space, they ask you reserve your seat by clicking the link here.

July Exhibition Opening
2024-07-18 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, 320 Wilson Street, Revelstoke, V0E 2S0
Join us for an exciting evening as we celebrate the works of six dedicated artists. Enjoy live music, an affordable bar, and great company. Whether you’re a long-time gallery patron or new to Revelstoke’s art scene, this promises to be a fantastic night out! Everyone is welcome to attend this public, family friendly event, no RSVP required.
$5 admission or free entry for members All welcome Semi formal attire encouraged The viewing (quiet) | 3pm – 5pm The social (main event) | 5pm – 8pm RVAC, 320 Wilson st
This month we are proud to be celebrating the hard work of: Isabelle Gagné | @misspixels Ugo Monticone | @ugo.monticone Marc Sauvageau | @marc.sauvageau Nicole Lau | @nicolelauartist Birte Spreuer | @lovebirdielove Florence Janiaud | @florence_janiaud

Dance Exploration Workshop at the Harris Ranch
2024-07-20 09:30 - 13:00 (America/Vancouver) | The Harris Ranch, New Denver, New Denver, V0G 1S0
Come join this unique dance exploration workshop in the scenic fields of the Harris Ranch—with dancer Rachel Harris accompanied by Paul “Garbanzo” Gibbons playing the bamboo flutes. Rachel Harris will guide participants in a dance exploration over her family’s ranch, combined with storytelling of the land and the role it played during the Internment of Japanese Canadians.
Click here for more info and to register.
This Dance Exploration Workshop is one of three Nikkei Art Excursions offered to you by SLAC this Summer.
