Saturday, Oct. 31, Halloween, will be the perfect day to spend at the Rollin Art Centre for their pumpkin carving contest.
This family friendly event begins at 11 am outside on the terrace, where you will pick a pumpkin and begin carving. Cost is $5 to register each pumpkin.
If you can’t make the day of carving, you can take it home to carve…but don’t forget to bring it back for the light up and possibly win a prize and ribbon in your age group.
At 4 pm the gardens will be a maze of lit jack-o-lanterns.
Vote as many times as you like for your favourite carved pumpkin, at $2 each vote; Proceeds going towards BC Children’s Hospital and future children’s programing.
Some carving tools will be on hand, but if you have your favourite tool, please bring it along. First place winners in each category will receive a special gift from Deborah Kruks of South Hill Designs, as well as ribbons awarded for first, second and third placings.
Still Moving at the Rollin
“Still Moving” is the title of our current art exhibit at the Rollin Art Centre. This exhibit showcases the works of Meaghan Stouck and Marilyn Ridsdale.
In oils and acrylic, this exhibit is full of life and promises to pull you in to the paintings on display. Meaghan is softer and is more fluid with her brushstrokes while Marilyn has a stronger sense of brushstroke.
Both artists capture the moment, and colour is the key, from arbutus trees to birds.
Across a Prairie Sky launches
Join us in the gallery Saturday, Nov. 14 from 1-3 pm to help celebrate Karen Poirier’s launch of her new books, “Across a Prairie Sky”. This is a fictionalized story that was inspired by stories told to me by Karen’s mother about life on the prairies when she was growing up.
“Ronald and Donald” is a children’s book written in rhyme and illustrated by Karen. Karen will be doing some readings, possibly from both books. Karen will also be giving away a signed copy of Ronald and Donald to the first three children (one per family) seven years and under to come to the launch to hear the readings.
Volunteers needed for light fest
Saturday, Nov. 14 from 9 am to 12 pm we are having a light hanging work-party in the gardens. If you can help hang lights and can spare a few hours, it would be very much appreciated. Many hands make light work!
Few mill tables left at fairs
McLean Mill Christmas market is always a favourite event here in the Alberni valley. Don’t miss your opportunity to showcase your crafts at this year’s event. Room is still available if you are interested.
This year’s McLean Mill Christmas market will once again take place on two weekends, Nov. 27th, 28th & 29th and Dec. 5th & 6th. If you are interested in renting a table, for this magical event, stop by the Rollin Art Centre for your application, or call 250-724-3412.
To book, one weekend is $80, or save, and book both weekends for $150.Space is limited.
Craft fair season has begun
The 41st Annual Christmas craft and arts fair. Fri. Nov 13 (3-8 pm, Sat. Nov. 14 (10-5 pm) & Sun. Nov. 15 (11-4:30 pm) free admission, wheelchair accessible at the Athletic Hall, 3727 Roger St.
50 years for arts council
The Board of directors of the Community Arts Council of the Alberni Valley would like to invite you to join us in the gallery for cake and refreshments, Thursday, Dec. 10 at 7 pm, to help celebrate the Community Arts Council’s 50th anniversary.
Bring your photos, stories or just come and show support to this amazing organization that has with-stood the test of time, in supporting local artists while growing ART in the Alberni Valley for 50 years.
Melissa Martin is the arts administrator for the arts council.
