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COLUMN: Event combines wine and painting

Fall brings out the artist in people who might not normally consider themselves artists.

There are a lot of reasons that people love fall.

For some, it’s because it’s a break from the heat of summer, while still remaining sunny and warm — for the most part.

For others, it’s all the great wildlife that starts to show itself again after hiding away in the hills for the summer.

Personally, I like this transitional period because of the beauty of it all, especially the way the trees start to change colours as they get ready for the winter.

The vibrancy of the colours is just incredible and watching everything unfold the way it does, slowly spreading across the mountains in a golden streak is just fantastic.

Not only is it easy on the eyes, but it also brings out the artist in people who might not normally consider themselves artists.

Like sunsets, leaves changing colours in the fall almost beg to be photographed by anyone who happens to be nearby.

It’s always very interesting to see the photographs start appearing online — be it on new sites, social media or wherever — because, along with the usual bunch of slick professional photos come equally impressive shots of the trees that people have in their lives.

Sometimes those trees are in their backyards or garden, other times they’re found along a walking route.

Wherever those trees are, they inspire something in people and the end result is almost always beautiful. If you’ve been looking for something to do around here lately, all you need is to grab you camera, or phone, put on your shoes, or boots, and find a tree.

If you’re really feeling inspired by the landscape around Summerland these days and you’re finding that the photos just aren’t scratching the itch, then you’re in luck.

On Thursday, Nov. 3, the Summerland Community Arts Council is hosting a Corks and Canvas session at the Arts Centre on Wharton Street.

These sessions are a fantastic way to try something a little different, while tasting some of the many great wines that can be found around Summerland.

The class offers step-by-step instruction on working with acrylics on canvas and requires no prior painting skills to participate, making it an excellent way to get into painting.

Tickets for the event are available at the Arts Centre, 9525 Wharton St., and all proceeds from the event go towards the excellent summer arts program. If you’re interested, be sure to act sooner, rather than later, as Corks and Canvas has a history of selling out.

You can find more information online at www.summerlandarts.com.

Douglas Paton is a Summerland writer and musician. If you know of a local arts and culture event, contact him at dgpaton80@gmail.com.