I’d like to start off by thanking everyone who came out to the signing at the Summerland Library on Saturday.
I was there for a while checking things out and chatting with those involved and I was thrilled to see a good number of people passing through, checking things out and buying books. I look forward to seeing more events like this in the future.
We’re getting closer to the long, dark stretch of winter that comes with January and, if you’re like me, having something creative to do to get through that stretch of winter can be a real life saver.
Sometimes, though, the things you usually do just don’t cut it.
You’ve done them one too many times, maybe, or you’re stuck in a space where it doesn’t feel you’ve done anything worthwhile for longer than you’d care to admit—and that’s fine. It happens.
Creativity isn’t a faucet you can always leave running. If you’re in that space, you’re in luck.
Starting in January and running until mid-February, the Summerland Community Arts Council is running a series of workshops based around the idea of trying something new.
Running under the banner, “Have You Ever Wanted To…” these two-hour workshops give you a chance to get a taste of something that you’ve maybe always wanted to try — or perhaps you’ve already tried and want a chance to explore further.
The action kicks off on Wednesday, Jan. 11 with a workshop on drumming with Bobby Bovenzi.
This is a great chance to learn a little something about the world of percussion. From there, you have a chance learn a little something about ukulele with Linnea Good, who is just wonderful at showing others how to play the ukulele.
Next up, you can discover the joy of creating art and then letting it go into the world with Sharon Kurtz, who will be demonstrating the creation of abandoned art — Kurtz’s goal is to let 150 pieces of art go into the wild during the celebration of Canada’s 150th year.
As January gives way to February, you have a chance to check out the world of rug hooking with the Summerland Traditional Rug Artists on Feb. 1.
I have an aunt who does this and some of the pieces she’s created are just incredible. For those who’ve always wanted to try their hand at quilting, you’ll get an opportunity to do so on Feb. 8 thanks to the Summerland Material Girls.
Finally, if you’ve ever had the desire to learn to paint, Maureen King of the Summerland Art Club will be demonstrating how it’s done.
The workshops run on Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. starting Jan. 11 and cost $15, although for some of the workshops there is a $5 materials fee.
For more information about these workshops, or to sign up, contact the Summerland Community Arts Council.
You can find them online at www.summerlandarts.com or you can visit them in person at 9525 Wharton St.
Be sure to register early to not only ensure that these workshops will run, but also to ensure that you get in.
Douglas Paton is a Summerland writer and musician. If you know of a local arts and culture event, contact him at dgpaton80@gmail.com.