As the snow slowly creeps down the mountains around us and lights slowly go up around town, there’s no denying that the holiday season is upon us. Christmas is a great time for artists and artisans alike.
There’s so much history and imagery available to choose from that, for some people, it’s hard not to get inspired to create.
If you’re one of those people who gets the urge to do something artistic during the holidays, but aren’t sure what to do or what to do with it, the Summerland Community Arts Council is holding a competition for their annual Christmas image.
This is a great opportunity for folks who may not always know what they feel like doing, but just know they want to make something.
I’ve always found that although I prefer to be able to meander my way through a project and take my time, having some kind of a deadline forces my thinking to become more focused, which always tends to produce better work.
Those interested in submitting to the competition can do so in person at the Summerland Art Gallery, or submit via e-mail or snail mail by Nov. 20.
The competition will be judged and the selected image will be purchased and put on display with winners from previous years.
If making isn’t quite your thing, but you still enjoy supporting artists and artisans the Summerland Holiday Market is coming up on Nov. 21 and 22.
These markets — and there’s a lot of them happening all around the Valley this time of year — are perfect for those who like gifts that are a little more unique than what you’d find at most stores and are an even better way to support the local creative community.
I’ve always been amazed at the quality of the gifts that have come from these markets, everything from handmade jewellery to kitchen scrubbies that are nearly indestructible and beard oils — both things that rank pretty high on my list of things that are great.
The best part is, it’s a chance for people in the community to show off what they’re capable of — hey that woman I always see walking her dog makes soap, that guy I see at the Nesters all the time is a great woodworker, that family down the street are all great bakers, etc.
The market runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21 and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Sunday and is being held at Harold Simpson Memorial Youth Centre at 9111 Peach Orchard Rd.
I’d also like to once again remind folks that the Summerland Cultural Task Force is looking for your thoughts and opinions on culture in Summerland.
Their next conversation is focused around youth in Summerland and is being held at IOOF hall on Main Street, Monday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. If you’ve got ideas, they want to hear them.
Douglas Paton is a Summerland writer and musician. If you know of a local arts and culture event, contact him at dgpaton80@gmail.com.
