News

Queen’s Park Parent Participation Preschool 4th Annual Art Exhibition – “INSPIRED”

The Gallery at Queen’s Park presents:

“INSPIRED”

4^th Annual Student Art Exhibition by Queen’s Park Parent Participation Preschool Exhibition

Dates: May 29 – June 2, 2019

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

The Gallery at Queen’s Park is pleased to present a pop-up exhibition featuring artwork by the current students of the Queen’s Park Parent Participation Preschool. Taking a lyrical flight of creative fancy after having been delighted by many of the exhibitions at the Gallery at Queen’s Park this past year, the children explore a variety of artistic media to create sculpture, paintings, drawings, ceramics and collage. Come and see their dynamic body of work!

Queen’s Park Parent Participation Preschool was established in 1965, and has since offered a quality and nurturing preschool program for three and four year-old children, to families living in New Westminster and its surrounding communities.

The N Dub Film Club Screening – Monday May 27th – Massey Theatre – 5:00-6:30pm

The Arts Council of New Westminster along with the Massey Theatre Society, New West Film Fest, and the N Dub Film Club is proud to present:

The N Dub Film Club Screening

on Monday May 27th from 5:00-6:30pm on the big screen at the Massey Theatre. Screening a series of short films created during the current school by New Westminster Secondary Students from grades 10 through 12, the films will cover topics including climate change, mortality, friendship, and a humorous take on student life. Emceed by local author and former CBC personality, JJ Lee, the screening will include a Q&A session with the filmmakers. The event is free to the public to attend, however tax-deductible donations to the Arts Council of New Westminster are welcomed.

The Last Monday at the Movies film series will take place following the screening at 7:00pm, screening ‘Wild Rose’, a story of a musician from Glasgow with dreams of becoming a Nashville star.

Last Monday at the Movies movie series that takes place at the Massey Theatre in New Westminster, B.C. on the last Monday of each month. Last Monday at the Movies is a celebration of independent film showing the best of the Toronto International Film Festival Film Circuit. Now in it’s 17th season, films take place between September through June, excluding December. The films start at 7:00pm and are followed by Last Word, a post-film talk discussing the film’s topic, taking place directly after the film in the Plaskett Gallery.

For more information about films and how to purchase tickets, visit the website: acnw.ca/movies

Wild Rose – Monday, May 27

(Drama. Music)
1hr 40

Director: Tom Harper
Writers: Nicole Taylor
Stars: Julie Walters, Jessie Buckley, Craig Parkinson
When: Monday, May 27, 2019 – 7:00 pm at Massey Theatre
Tickets: General Admission $9 – Seniors/Students $8
{Advance tickets at the Massey Theatre Box Office}
{Advance tickets online at ticketsnw.ca}
{At the door, CASH ONLY}

Synopsis:
Fresh out of prison, a Scottish woman juggles her job and two children while pursuing her dream of becoming a country music star. She soon gets her chance when she travels to Nashville, Tenn., on a life-changing journey to discover her true voice.

Trailer:

The N Dub Film Club Screening – May 27, 2019 – Massey Theatre

The N Dub Film Club, Massey Theatrem and the Arts Council of New Westminster present:

The N Dub Film Club Screening

May 27, 2019
Massey Theatre
5:00pm – 6:30pm
Free!

Join us for a screening of works created by students of the N Dub Film Club from New Westminster Secondary School. Interviews with the film makers will share the meaning and intent behind their work. Come support the filmmakers of tomorrow!

Garey Shergill – “The Places We Can’t Remember” – May 1 – 26, 2019

The Gallery at Queen’s Park presents:

“The Places We Can’t Remember”

by Garey Shergill

Exhibition Dates: May 1 – 26, 2019
Opening Reception: Wednesday, May 1 , 6-8pm
Artist Talk: Sunday, May 5, 3-4pm

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

In his abstract series, “The Places We Can’t Remember,” Shergill explores both the pull and play of form and the role of muted colour in conjuring memories of travel—and most significantly—fleeting impressions of place. His evocative oils distill these experiences to their very essence of perception.

When I think back to all the places we have travelled, what I remember most is you and the colours that surrounded us. I close my eyes; you are walking beside me, my hand in yours, and time stands still for a moment.

Artist Biography

Born in 1982 in Surrey, BC, Garey Shergill was the youngest, and only boy, of five children. At age 16, he began to explore art as a form of escape to cope with personal insecurities, using it as an emotional outlet and form of personal therapy. Art was the only thing that was truly his own, within the privacy of his sketchbook. Topics of gender and sexuality were present within his work—moving into the abstraction of shapes and figures became a way to disguise the inner conversation he was having within himself. Garey’s passion for art intensified when one of his sisters began studies at Emily Carr; he would watch her work, and soon after began to sit in on her classes.

Fast forward ten years: art was exclusively a highly personal expressive outlet for Shergill. This shifted when he joined a group in the Queensborough area of New Westminster called Artists in the Boro, where his passion and drive were encouraged. He was accepted to Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design in 2012. During this program, Shergill investigated sculpture, woodwork, screen printing and photography. Having tried various media and subjects, he always found his way back to painting. During his schooling, Shergill participated in several group exhibitions in Vancouver and New Westminster, and in 2016 had a solo exhibition at the Gallery at Queen’s Park called “Foreign Gaze: Bollywood Eyes.” The latter ignited his passion to create paintings in series. Graduating with a BFA in Visual Arts from Emily Carr in 2018 was a “full circle” moment for Garey, one that began when he was a 16 year-old sitting in the classroom with his sister.

Now Hiring: Outreach Coordinator

The Arts Council of New Westminster (ACNW) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the visual, literary and performing arts. Its aim is to bring the community together through the Arts. The ACNW operates a variety of arts programs throughout the community of New Westminster. At each event, the ACNW has a presence through an outreach table that serves as a resource for the community to discover the arts community in New Westminster, learn more about the ACNW, and sign up for upcoming events, membership, and volunteer opportunities.

The ACNW is seeking a versatile individual to fill the position of Outreach Coordinator. The successful candidate will facilitate the outreach efforts of the ACNW in the community. This position will aim to revamp the ACNW to expand inclusivity and change our language, so it reflects the desire of welcoming diversity into The Gallery and beyond. The successful applicant will have knowledge and experience in the arts-in-general, the ACNW, its programming, and the greater arts community in New Westminster.

Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

Set up and staff the ACNW outreach table at important community events.
Distribute literature and information about the ACNW, and its members.
Engage the community as they experience the table
Facilitate ACNW member registration and e-newsletter signups
Process payments for ACNW memberships.
Post social media posts on ACNW accounts, capturing events in action

Knowledge and Experience

Previous experience / background in community outreach activities.
Computer literacy, experience with Microsoft, Google, and other online tools such as MailChimp
Proficient with social media accounts: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Key Competencies

Passionate about the arts in New Westminster
Excellent communication skills – written and verbal; fluent in English
Excellent planning and organizational skills; attention to detail and accuracy
Strong information gathering and information monitoring skills
High degree of self-motivation; ability to work independently and with a team
Able to work odd hours, including evenings and weekends
Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle for use on ACNW business
Flexible and adaptable

Work Schedule:

Events / Opportunities:

Volunteer Fest (Royal City Centre)	January	6 hours
Family Day (at Anvil)	February	5 hours
Easter in the Park	March/April	5 hours
LitFest New West	March / April	9 hours
Hyack Week – Uptown St Fest	May	6 hours
Sapperton Day	June	6 hours
Queensborough Children’s Festival	June	5 hours
National Indigenous People’s Day	June	4 hours
Canada Day	July	5 hours
Uptown Live	July	8 hours
New West Cultural Crawl	August	12 hours
River Fest	September	6 hours
Seniors Festival	October	4 hours
ACNW Annual General Meeting	November	4 hours

Event hours: 85 hours | Additional prep time: 5 hours prep time every four months
Total hours: 100

Additional ACNW Events

New West Craft at River Market	1st & 3rd Saturday monthly, year-round	6 hours x 24 events
New West Farmers Market	Once per month, year-round	6 hours
Music by the River	July	4 hours x 8 events
Last Monday at the Movies	Monthly	2 hours x 9 events

Event hours: 200 hours | Additional prep time: 10 hours prep time every four months
Total hours: 230

This position is from May 15, 2019 until June 30, 2020. Renewal will be subject to future funding. Remuneration: $15.00 per hour.

Submit resume and cover letter by email to info@acnw.ca before 5:00pm on May 3, 2019. Include “ACNW Outreach Coordinator – Application” as the subject of your email. Only selected applicants will be contacted for an interview.

To download a copy of this job description as a PDF, click here

CALL FOR ARTISTS – RiverFest 2019

The Arts Council of New Westminster in partnership with the Fraser River Discover Centre is now inviting all visual artists from Metro Vancouver to submit applications for a group exhibition during the opening night of the 2019 edition of RiverFest. The exhibition is to take place on September 18 & 19, 2019 in the rotunda and lobby at the Fraser River Discover Centre in New Westminster, BC. The theme of the exhibition is the working river and its natural environment. This call is open to applications from both established and emerging artists.

The Arts Council wishes to highlight how diverse our community is, and in order to break down any exclusionary barriers and create a platform for marginalized voices, artists on the LGBTQ spectrum, non-binary artists, artists of colour, Indigenous artists, and disabled artists, are strongly encouraged to submit.

Submissions will be received up to 4:00pm on Friday June 28, 2019

Overview:

RiverFest is a FREE family-friendly festival, and a great way to enjoy a beautiful fall day along the mighty Fraser River. The 2019 festival will take place from September 23-28, 2019.

The week-long event starts on Wednesday, September 23th with a special RiverFest edition of FRDC’s curriculum-based RiverSchool for three lucky elementary school classes. That is followed the next day by our *click* photos of the fraser exhibit unveiling, whose photograph theme this year is Movement. The climax of the week is Saturday, which will include the Family Fun Zone (inside the FRDC), Artisans on the River (with New West Craft), the Samson V Maritime Museum, the Lucille Johnstone Workboat Parade.

The Arts Council of New Westminster aims to have exhibitions that feature a variety of visual arts by a wide range of artists from the Metro Vancouver region. The exhibition program aims to reflect both the cultural and artistic diversity of contemporary art and to serve as an educational forum for the citizens of New Westminster and surrounding communities.

The exhibition will feature a private reception with exhibiting artists and private guests on Wednesday September 18at the Fraser River Discovery Centre. The exhibition will be open to the public from 10am -4pm on Thursday September 18th.

Artwork must be suitably framed, ready for hanging, or, if three-dimensional, appropriately mounted or otherwise ready for presentation.

Eligibility:

To apply to this Call, you are not required to be a member of the Arts Council of New Westminster.
To exhibit, you must be a current member of the Arts Council of New Westminster at the time of the exhibition.

Budget:

The Council does not charge for exhibiting, nor does it pay an artist to exhibit. The Council will don’t receive any commission on sales of work during the exhibition.

How to Apply for an Exhibition:

The Arts Council’s Gallery Exhibitions Selection Committee (GESC) will meet in July 2019 to consider applications for the exhibition. A well-prepared proposal helps in the selection.

To be considered at the next GESC meeting, please submit the following:

A selection of 3 digital images of proposed work you wish to exhibit. Digital images should be jpg format at 150 dpi; each image should be a maximum of 800 x 600 pixels. Image files should be clearly labelled with your Name, the Title of Work, Size in inches and Medium. Example: Artist-Title-Size-Medium.jpg
Contact information (mailing address, phone number, email, website). In this document, please provide a clear and concise statement explaining which space you are applying for (Main, Lower, Both)
An Artist Statement giving your aims and objectives as an artist in relation to your work.
A Curriculum Vitae (3 pages max.) to establish a better understanding of your background and experience.

Please include all written material as PDF files and submit via email to info@acnw.ca with “Exhibition Submission – RiverFest” in the subject line. Please ensure that attachments total less than 5MB.

Deadlines for submission is 4:00pm on Friday June 28, 2019. Applications will not be rolled over for future exhibitions.

The Selection/Exhibition Process:

The GESC will meet in July 2019 to consider all applications received. All applications will receive a reply by email, stating whether the work has been accepted. If your application has been successful, you will be contacted by telephone, exhibition details will be confirmed, and a contract will be sent to you. This contract will outline your responsibilities and providing other details and dates. A signed contract is required before the exhibition can proceed.

Application Tips:

•    Be sure that all documents include your name, a working title of the proposed exhibition and complete contact information; phone number, email address, website and postal code.
•    Email submissions are preferred. For physical submissions, please phone the gallery at 604-525-3244 for equitable access procedures.
•    DO NOT send composite images or prepared slideshows
•    Please test all documents on a PC computer to ensure compatibility

Submit your application via email to: info@acnw.ca

Estimated Timeline:

May 1                         Call to Artists Launched
June 28, 2019             Deadline to submit
July                              Gallery Exhibition Selection Committee meets
July                              Artists contacted
August                         Exhibition dates confirmed, contracts signed and returned
September 2019         Exhibition at the Fraser River Discover Centre

Contact:

All enquiries should be directed to:
Stephen O’Shea, Executive Director
Phone: 604 525 3244
info@acnw.ca

For more information about the Arts Council of New Westminster, visit www.acnw.ca/gallery
For more information about RiverFest, visit www.fraserriverdiscovery.org/RiverFest
To download a PDF of this Call for Artists, please click here

CALL FOR MUSICIANS – ACNW Summer Music Program – 2019

Call for Musicians Package 2019

The Woman Who Loves Giraffes – Monday, April 27

The Woman Who Loves Giraffes

(Documentary)
1hr 23

Director: Allison Reid
Writers: Allison Reid
Stars: Fred Bercovitch, David Chinchilla, Lisa Clifton-Bumpass
When: Monday, April 27, 2019 – 7:00 pm at Massey Theatre
Tickets: General Admission $9 – Seniors/Students $8
{Advance tickets at the Massey Theatre Box Office}
{Advance tickets online at ticketsnw.ca}
{At the door, CASH ONLY}

Synopsis:
In 1956, four years before Jane Goodall ventured into the world of chimpanzees and seven years before Dian Fossey left to work with mountain gorillas — in fact, before anyone, man or woman had made such a trip — 23-year-old Canadian biologist, Anne Innis Dagg, made an unprecedented solo journey to South Africa to become the first person in the world to study animal behavior in the wild on that continent. When she returned home a year later armed with ground-breaking research, the insurmountable barriers she faced as a female scientist proved much harder to overcome. THE WOMAN WHO LOVES GIRAFFES retraces the steps of Anne’s ground-breaking 1956 journey to South Africa to study giraffes in the wild — and discovers a startling contrast between the world of giraffes she once knew and the one it has become.

Trailer:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8901942/videoplayer/vi3978541593

Hilda Cliffe Scholarship – Supporting the Artists of tomorrow!

Douglas College Student Hailey Connor with ACNW President Leanne Ewen

Every year the Arts Council of New Westminster awards two scholarship/bursary awards through the Hilda Cliffe Scholarship Program. These awards support students furthering their studies in the Arts. Through a partnership with Douglas College Foundation, we award a performing arts student with a scholarship for their studies. Partnering with New Westminster Secondary School, a local student furthers their training or a career in the Arts. Every donation to this program allows the Arts Council to continue supporting our future artists.

As a friend of the Arts Council, we are turning to you. Finances should never prevent a student from attending an art program or pursuing a career in the arts. Right now, you can make sure that students in our community succeed.

Making a donation to our scholarship and bursary program will ensure we continue to recognize and encourage talented young artists. Donations of any size can be processed by visiting our website.

DONATE NOW

Hilda Cliffe has been active in the arts and culture in New Westminster since 1963. She served a variety of Boards including the Vagabond Players, the Massey Theatre, as well as President of the Arts Council of New Westminster from 1991 to 2001.
Hilda Cliffe has been recognized for her commitment to the Arts in our community as the recipient of the The Queens Golden Jubilee Medal, BC Governor General Award, and the Bernie Legge Cultural Award.
Hilda Cliffe exemplifies the spirit of giving back to your community through her dedication and commitment to the arts. The Arts Council continues to honour Hilda’s contribution to the Arts with an annual scholarship in her name.

LitFest New West – April 26 & 27, 2019

Lisa-Scarlett Cruji – “The Recollection Experiment” Apr 3 – 28, 2019

The Gallery at Queen’s Park presents:

“The Recollection Experiment”
by Lisa-Scarlett Cruji

Exhibition Dates: April 3 – 28, 2019
Opening Reception: Wednesday, April 3, 2019, 6-8pm
Artist Talk: Sunday, April 14, 2019, 3-4pm

Free Admission.

ARTIST STATEMENT

Through the marriage of original brief narratives and poetry in the form of haiku and tanka, and vintage photographs, Cruji’s collage collection invites viewers to consider both the possible identity of narrator and influence of the ghosts of personal memories—those that are factual, and the ones that speak to us through filters of love, fear, ecstasy and regret.

“The Recollection Experiment” plays with the overall notion of memory and the way it often poses the questions, Whose voice do we hear when we read the words? What’s real and what isn’t?

ARTIST BIO

When asked if she considers herself more of an artist or a writer, Lisa-Scarlett Cruji replies, “I am both, in equal parts.” Realizing that her miniature watercolours increasingly featured text, Cruji gradually discovered that the addition of words could add another dimension to her art—providing a narrator to express even the most complex feelings, while the image communicated in a more subtle, but no less important way.

Cruji studied Expressive Arts at the Haliburton School of the Arts; bookbinding, book arts and printing with the Canadian Bookbinders and Book Artists Guild, and poetry writing at Simon Fraser University. She holds the accreditation of Artist Educator from The Royal Conservatory of Music, Learning through the Arts Division.

Cruji’s work has been exhibited in both solo shows and juried group exhibitions. She has taught mixed media art and book arts, and studied under talented artists such as her artistic heroes Nick Bantock and George A. Walker. As author and illustrator of the book, The ‘How Did You Die?’ Show, Crjui found an opportunity to showcase her fun-loving, somewhat macabre, mixed media/Polaroid image transfer art. An avid reader, progressive rock fan, and mandolin player, Cruji is originally from Kingston, Ontario; she now lives in Vancouver, BC.

Puzzle – Monday, March 25, 2019

Puzzle
(Drama)
1hr43

Director: Marc Turtletaub
Writers: Polly Mann (screenplay by), Oren Moverman (screenplay by)
Stars: Kelly Macdonald, Irrfan Khan, David Denman
When: Monday, March 25, 2019 – 7:00 pm at Massey Theatre
Tickets: General Admission $9 – Seniors/Students $8
{Advance tickets at the Massey Theatre Box Office}
{Advance tickets online at ticketsnw.ca}
{At the door, CASH ONLY}

Synopsis:
A woman who has a talent for assembling jigsaw puzzles sneaks away from her suburban town and goes to New York City, where she partners with a man for a puzzle tournament in Atlantic City. As she experiences independence for the first time, she begins to view her value and the pieces of her own life in a whole new light.

Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CX-TxPEXmJI

Arthur Babiarz & Olga Turok – Elements & Arraygraphy – March 6 – 31, 2019

The Gallery at Queen’s Park presents:

“Elements & Arraygraphy”
by Arthur Babiarz & Olga Turok

Exhibition Dates: March 6 – 31, 2019
Opening Reception: Wednesday, March 6, 2019, 6-8pm
Artist Talk: Sunday, March 17, 2019, 3-4pm

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

Arthur Babiarz Arraygraphy is Arthur’s bona fide creation. These poly-form compositions resemble concertos of shape, colour, texture and direction. A comparison to music is intentional. As with the arrangement of musical tones, Arraygraphy creatively disperses abstract elements to stimulate the viewer. Multi-layered composition adds both complexity and depth to this two-dimensional artwork, heightening the overall expressive qualities of each piece.
Arraygraphy’s style is intended to positively stimulate the viewer’s imagination, guiding emotions through the meanderings of an intriguing visual plot. The experience can evoke the sense of participation in an improvisational play, or venturing into the shifting patterns of jazz or classical music.
The artist’s aim is to create, within a universal visual language, thought-provoking work that speaks to creative and active people who live and work in a modern multicultural society. “Art is an inspiration that matters,” he says.

Olga Turok finds tremendous enjoyment in the process of transforming raw organic material into a fine art object. Every vessel gains its own story, meaning and purpose. It is the magic of this transformation that Olga wishes to share with others, as well as her passion for art.

Artist Bio

Since childhood, Arthur Babiarz has been interested in art and photography. His drawings, paintings, and later design work were often influenced by that medium, and Arthur considers his camera, which he always carries with him, his “vision extension.”
Born and raised in Poland, where he studied fine art and design, Arthur subsequently received his MFA degree. His image creation skills are applied to both his professional and artistic activities. In Canada, as a university level visual art and graphic design instructor, Arthur also teaches computer graphics, digital photography and post-production editing.

Olga Turok discovered clay in 1975 and soon realized that it would be her artistic passion. She finds working with this material healing, meditative and fulfilling, and becomes inspired on outdoor excursions where she connects with nature.
Olga is a self-taught potter and also a watercolourist. Clay is her main medium for the creation of both functional and decorative pottery. She enjoys hand-building and throwing pots for burnishing, and sawdust firing by hot smoke. Elsa also sculpts structures that she calls “My Vancouver.”
Working on her pots makes Olga feel grounded and connected to the Earth. Every vessel undergoes a long process of creation, which involves the four elements: Fire, Water, Air and Earth.
As a member of Artists in Our Midst, Point Grey Potters, and the Potters Guild of BC, Olga participates in many community events and shows.

2019 ACNW Community Engagement Survey

The Arts Council of New Westminster requests your feedback!

Please take ten minutes to fill out our Community Engagement Survey. Your answers will assist the ACNW in enhancing the delivery of programming and serving our community.

Click here for the survey

The survey will be open for your feedback until February 28, 2019

I Am Not Your Negro – Monday, February 25, 2019

I Am Not Your Negro
(Documentary)
1hr 33

Director: Raoul Peck
Writers: James Baldwin, Raoul Peck
Stars: Samuel L. Jackson, James Baldwin, Martin Luther King
When: Monday, February 25, 2019 – 7:00 pm at Massey Theatre
Tickets: General Admission $9 – Seniors/Students $8
{Advance tickets at the Massey Theatre Box Office}
{Advance tickets online at ticketsnw.ca}
{At the door, CASH ONLY}

Synopsis:
In 1979, James Baldwin wrote a letter to his literary agent describing his next project, “Remember This House.” The book was to be a revolutionary, personal account of the lives and assassinations of three of his close friends: Medgar Evers, Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. At the time of Baldwin’s death in 1987, he left behind only 30 completed pages of this manuscript. Filmmaker Raoul Peck envisions the book James Baldwin never finished.

Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNUYdgIyaPM

Now Hiring – Summer Promotions Coordinator – Canada Summer Jobs

Founded in 1967, the Arts Council of New Westminster (ACNW) is a non-profit organization committed to a mission of bringing the arts to the centre of community life. It accomplishes that mission through initiatives that focus on arts programming in the community, arts advocacy, and programs that nurture and support our local artists and arts organizations.

The Summer Promotions Coordinator will develop and execute an all-encompassing marketing strategy for all current and upcoming events and programs. This position will develop print materials, website updates, social media posts, and press releases.

Responsibilities:

Create and execute a summer marketing strategy
Attending, promoting, and reporting on both ACNW and community events, adding excitement to the events, and giving attendees an opportunity to talk about their involvement with the arts
Coordinating with ACNW’s programming staff in order to help host events on behalf of ACNW throughout New Westminster.
Participates in all efforts to publicize events, including media releases, print advertisements, and web and social media updates.
Write press releases
Compose and manage correspondence.
Research potential marketing partnerships and sponsorship opportunities
Propose new ideas to improve and continue marketing in the future
Other duties as assigned, by the ACNW Executive Director

Qualifications:

Demonstrated background in Marketing, Communications, and Promotions
Completion of one year of post-secondary education
Computer literacy, experience with multiple social media platforms
Attention to detail and ability to work independently
Excellent communication skills – written and verbal
High degree of self-motivation and creative problem solving
Culturally aware and a love for the Arts
Available to work weekends and evenings

Timeline: May 6, 2019 to August 30, 2019, Monday to Friday; however, a flexible week may be necessary in order to meet programming needs.

Remuneration: $18.00 per hour, 40 hrs per week

Submit resume and cover letter by email to info@acnw.ca before 5:00pm on April 1, 2019.

Include “Summer Promotions Coordinator – Application” as the subject of your email.

Only selected applicants will be contacted for an interview.

Please note that the staffing of the position and its duration are conditional on the approval of the grant application submitted to the Canada Summer Jobs program. To be considered for this position, students must be between 15-30 years of age at the start of employment, registered as a full-time student during the preceding academic year, intend to return to school on a full-time basis next year, is a Canadian Citizen, permanent resident, or person on whom refugee protection has been conferred.

To download a PDF of this job description, click here

Now Hiring: Music Program Coordinator – Canada Summer Jobs

Founded in 1967, the Arts Council of New Westminster (ACNW) is a non-profit organization committed to a mission of bringing the arts to the centre of community life. We accomplish our mission through initiatives that focus on arts programming in the community, arts advocacy, and programs that nurture and support our local artists and arts organizations.

The Music Program Coordinator will be responsible for full program delivery. This position will coordinate, administer, and promote a concert series throughout New Westminster. The program takes place at locations throughout New Westminster during the summer of 2019, with the aid of volunteers and staff support as available.

Responsibilities:

Participating in the facilitation and the coordination of Music by the River, Uptown Unplugged, Fridays on Front and other music events throughout New Westminster
Building long term connections and partnerships with the artists, the arts community, local businesses and service organizations.
Facilitating volunteer involvement
Helping plan and facilitate meetings, taking minutes, email meeting notifications
Collection of data (including attendance records, community engagement, etc)
Tracking goals, progress, and deadlines
Onsite day of support
Other duties as assigned, by the ACNW Executive Director

Qualifications:

An interest in and/or knowledge of Event Management and Promotions
- Completion of one year of post-secondary education
- Computer literacy, experience with multiple social media platforms
- Attention to detail and ability to work independently
- Excellent communication skills – written and verbal
- High degree of self-motivation and creative problem solving
- Culturally aware and a love for the Arts
- Available to work weekends and evenings
- Valid Class 5 Driver’s License for the Province of British Columbia

Timeline: May 6, 2019 to August 30, 2019, Wednesday to Sunday; however, a flexible week may be necessary in order to meet programming needs.

Remuneration: $18.00 per hour, 40 hrs per week

Submit resume and cover letter by email to info@acnw.ca before 5:00pm on April 1, 2019.

Include “Music Program Coordinator – Application” as the subject of your email.

Only selected applicants will be contacted for an interview.

To download a PDF of this job description, click here

Remembering Tony Antonias

The Arts Council of New Westminster wishes to acknowledge the passing of Tony Antonias this past Friday. Recognized as a Honorary Life Member of the ACNW, Tony was known for composing the $1.49 Day Woodwards jingle and being a tireless advocate for the Arts in New Westminster.

Thank you Tony for all you gave our community, for your passionate service of the Arts.

CALL FOR ARTISTS – Hyack Festival Association – Float Workshops

The Arts Council of New Westminster and Hyack Festival Association want to make a Better Community through hands-on, artist-led neighbourhood workshops where neighbours come together to create, design and build community floats (moving stage with “actors”) to showcase in the yearly Hyack International Parade in New Westminster. The workshops, suitable for all ages and skill levels, will stimulate individual and collective creativity, and provide a much-needed creative outlet for our community. Offering an intergenerational and inclusive exchange while fostering social connections, these workshops will give the opportunity to make new friends from all walks of life, learn new skills, and keep active and engaged. Floats will be publicly presented, and participants will feel proud of the final group accomplishment. Free public workshops will be held at resident associations and community centres.

Artist Submission requirements:
Name:
Phone Number & Email:
Preferred Neighbourhood: 3 images of your work (jpg format, max 2mbs total)
Artist biography:
Attached your C/V highlighting previous community experience
Send to info@acnw.ca Deadline: February 15, 2019

A jury of your peers will select artists to participate and assign you to a Neighbourhood. You will be notified by February 22, 2019.

Selected artists will be paid an honorarium of $150 for participating as the Neighbourhood Artist-in-Residence.

Schedule (subject to change):
Feb 15 2019 Artist Submissions Due
Feb 22 2019 Artists notified of selection
February 22-28 2019 (approx.) Artist-led Neighbourhood Float workshop 1
March 2019 Neighbourhood Float workshop 2
April 2019 Artist-led Neighbourhood Float workshop 3
May 25 2019 Hyack International Parade

The Gallery in the Park Auction – February 22, 2019

Katrina Hilliard proudly presents the Gallery in the Park Auction. This fundraiser promotes both local and international artists through two silent auctions and one live auction. With a cash-bar onsite, your evening will be paired with live music, free appetizers and the atmosphere that comes with an art gallery in the regal Queen’s Park.

Artists include Iris Scott, a prominent finger-painting artist based out of New York City; Terry Aske, a local artist known for his contemporary quilt work portraying New Westminster landmarks; Stephen Rogers, grandson to the founder of Rogers Sugar, who has begun trying his hand at acrylic painting; and many more!

Partial proceeds will be passed on to the Arts Council of New Westminster, with the remainder being used to support the education of further graduate arts studies for Katrina Hilliard at the University of Glasgow.

We welcome you to come and explore the hidden treasure that is The Gallery at Queen’s Park through this highlighted social event! Tickets are $10 each, and MUST be purchased in advance. You can buy them online by CLICKING HERE, or by contacting Katrina Hilliard at (778) 996-1754.

Thank you to the Following Organizations for their Donations:
– Arts Club
– Bard on the Beach Theatre Society
– Epicure by Katie Hoflin
– Inn @ The Quay
– Mary Kay by Rosie Brown
– Maui Jim
– Pacific Breeze Urban Winery
– Pure Romance by Miranda Diffner

Thank you to the Following Artists for their Donations:
– Bruce Acton
– Terry Aske
– Jack Cowan – provided by a 3rd party donor
– Dorothy Doherty
– Linda Hilliard
– Cat Jones
– Karen Justice
– Penny Lim
– Iris Mes-Low
– Henery Robertson – provided by a 3rd party donor
– Stephen Rogers
– Iris Scott- Karen Wheeler – provided by 3rd party donor
– Paul Windsor – provided by 3rd party donor

Share this event on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/234343930814154/

Elsa Chesnel – “Lines of Thoughts” – Feb 6 – 24, 2019

The Gallery at Queen’s Park presents:

“Lines of Thoughts”
by Elsa Chesnel

Exhibition Dates: Feb 6 – 24, 2019
Opening Reception: Wednesday, February 6, 6-8pm
Artist Talk: Sunday, Feb 10, 3-4pm

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

Elsa Chesnel has always been seduced by charcoal, by the black mess engulfing her as the drawings emerge. With charcoal as her preferred medium, Elsa set out to express feelings through contrast. The limitations of Chesnel’s medium of choice, however, pushed her to use acrylics to express herself in larger format, which in turn allowed for experimentation with colour.

When creating, Chesnel loses herself in shapes and volumes, then refines and discovers meaning through lines as she explores her own thoughts. The artist is as much a part of the process as a part of the final product. In many ways, Lines of Thoughts is Chesnel’s own version of Rorschach’s inkblots.

Artist Bio

Self-taught in the visual arts, Elsa Chesnel rejected integrating into a French Art School to concentrate on immigrating to Canada. This decade of apparent setback in her artistic growth came back with a vengeance of darkness and colour, sending her staggering toward abstract artwork. She regained her footing remembering Kandinsky’s reckless curves, experimenting with Sonia Delaunay’s bold colours, and discovering Joan Mitchell’s aggressive softness.

ACNW MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL NOTICE 2019

Dear Member,

Your membership in The Arts Council of New Westminster (ACNW) is very important to us. Your membership with the ACNW needs to be renewed before December 31st in order to remain active. Please take this letter as a friendly reminder to renew if you have not already done so. Your renewed Membership will be valid for the 2019 calendar year.

The Arts Council of New Westminster has been active in the community for fifty years. Since its incorporation as a not-for-profit society, the ACNW has met its mandate to encourage, support and nurture emerging talents and increase awareness of the arts in the community. We have been able to accomplish this with a strong membership base.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, we thank you for your continued support through renewing your membership with the ACNW. Please share this reminder with anyone you might know who may also be interested in membership with the ACNW.

Sincerely,
Stephen O’Shea
Executive Director

Simply renew your membership by sending an email money transfer to payment@acnw.ca and be sure to email us the password.
Other options: Pay online via Paypal, Print form and mail,
or in person at The Gallery at Queen’s Park

Tea With The Dames – Monday, January 28

Tea With The Dames
(Documentary)
1hr 24

Director: Roger Michell
Stars: Dames Judi Dench, Eileen Atkins, Joan Plowright, and Maggie Smith
When: Monday, January 28, 2019 – 7:00 pm at Massey Theatre
Tickets: General Admission $9 – Seniors/Students $8
{Advance tickets at the Massey Theatre Box Office}
{Advance tickets online at ticketsnw.ca}
{At the door, CASH ONLY}

Synopsis:
Together, they’re 342 years old. They’re in their seventh decade of cutting-edge, epoch-defining performances on stage and on screen. Funny, smart, sharp, competitive, tearful, hilarious, savage, clever, caustic, cool, gorgeous, poignant, irreverent, iconic, old, and unbelievably young. Special friends, special women and special dames: a chance to hang out with them all, at the same table, at the same time, and enjoy sparkling and unguarded conversation spliced with a raft of archive.

Trailer:

ACNW Permanent Collection – December 5, 2018 – January 27, 2019

The Gallery at Queen’s Park presents:

“ACNW Permanent Collection”

Exhibition Dates: Dec 5, 2018 – January 27th, 2019.

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

The Arts Council of New Westminster’s permanent collection of artwork consists of a variety of styles and mediums of various artists and patrons that have been connected to the Arts Council over the past fifty years. This year’s exhibition is a curated selection of natural landscapes and floral still lifes from the permanent collection. The styles of the different works range from abstraction to hyper-realism, exploring the subject matter in oil, acrylic, and watercolour paint. This selection of paintings and prints serve as an homage to The Gallery at Queen’s Park’s unique natural setting, and during our winter season, this exhibition offers a gentle reminder of the richness and vibrancy within nature.

Leave No Trace – Monday, November 19 not Nov. 26

Leave No Trace
(Drama)
1hr 49

Writer: Debra Granik (screenplay by), Anne Rosellini (screenplay by)
Director: Debra Granik
Stars: Thomasin McKenzie, Ben Foster, Jeffery Rifflard
When: Monday, November 19, 2018 – 7:00 pm at Massey Theatre
Tickets: General Admission $9 – Seniors/Students $8
{Advance tickets at the Massey Theatre Box Office}
{Advance tickets online at ticketsnw.ca}{At the door, CASH ONLY}

Synopsis:
A father and daughter live a perfect but mysterious existence in Forest Park, a beautiful nature reserve near Portland, Oregon, rarely making contact with the world. But when a small mistake tips them off to authorities, they are sent on an increasingly erratic journey in search of a place to call their own.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS – Gallery/ArtsToGo

The Arts Council of New Westminster has immediate need for volunteers to assist with ACNW programming.

Exhibition Installation Crew
Last Sunday of each month
4:00pm to 7:00pm

ArtsToGo Workshop Assistant
First Sunday of the Month at Royal City Centre
12:00pm to 3:00pm

For more information and to apply, please send a simplified resume to info@acnw.ca

David Pacholko – “Moments Remixed / A Mixed Media Exhibition” – Nov 7 – 25th, 2018.

The Gallery at Queen’s Park presents:

“Moments Remixed / A Mixed Media Exhibition”
by David Pacholko

Exhibition Dates: Nov 7 – 25th, 2018.

Opening Reception: Wednesday Nov 7, 6 – 8pm

Inter/action: Sunday, November 18, 3-4pm

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

Each work represents a specific moment, simplified and combined with David Pacholko’s love of colour, it re-captures a fleeting moment, vista or experience gone by. These paintings are a reflection of Pacholko’s emotional connection with colour, light and energy in recounting my surroundings and experiences. Pacholko approached this series of work inspired in part by a recent trip to Mexico and driving across Canada. Each canvas takes on an energy and direction of its own with no script, as it comes from a moment remixed.

Artist Bio

With over a decade of experience in the graphic design industry behind him, David started his design studio in 1999 – David James Design, and ventured forth to provide clients with strategic graphic design, illustration and public art projects. He is a Award Winning Designer/Illustrator, with numerous international and national design awards to his credit along with 10 public art competition projects. 10 years ago, David began to explore his fine art side and started his journey of producing large and small scale mixed media abstract artwork. Since then he has exhibited his work in solo and group exhibitions throughout the lower mainland and today he splits his time between his graphic design and mixed media work.

Coffee C’Art – Visioning Session – The Gallery at Queen’s Park – November 14, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster invites you to:

“Coffee C’Art: Social Enterprise – Visioning Sessions”

The Gallery at Queen’s Park
Wednesday Nov 14, 2018
Doors: 6:30pm
Event: 7:00pm – 8:30pm

Free Admission. Please RSVP here

The concept of the Coffee C’Art project is to build and operate a mobile espresso cart, which will be designed by the local artists and the community, and will bring members of the community together to connect with the arts through a mobile cafe venue.

More info here

AGM NOTICE 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster
2018 Annual General Meeting
will be on Sunday, November 25th 2018.

Venue: Centennial Lodge in Queen’s Park
Time: 1:30pm – 2:30 pm

After our formal AGM, please plan to stay for our Annual Arts Celebration, 2:30pm – 5:00pm.

Please share this invitation with others, as the meeting is open to the public. If you have any questions, would like more information, or are interested in joining the Board of Directors, contact Stephen O’Shea, Executive Director at info@acnw.ca

We looking forward to seeing and hearing from you.

The Children Act – Monday, October 29

The Children Act
(Drama)
1hr 45min

Writer: Ian McEwan (screenplay by), Ian McEwan (based on the novel by)
Director: Richard Eyre
Stars: Emma Thompson, Stanley Tucci, Ben Chaplin
When: Monday, October 29, 2018 – 7:00 pm at Massey Theatre
Tickets: General Admission $9 – Seniors/Students $8
{Advance tickets at the Massey Theatre Box Office}
{Advance tickets online at ticketsnw.ca}{At the door, CASH ONLY}

Synopsis:
In the midst of a marital crisis, a High Court judge must decide if she should order a life-saving blood transfusion for a teen with cancer despite his family’s refusal to accept medical treatment for religious reasons.

Trailer:

Seth MacBeth – “Page to Page – Building New Worlds, Exploring New Depths” – Oct 3 – 28th, 2018.

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Page to Page – Building New Worlds, Exploring New Depths”
by Seth MacBeth

Exhibition Dates: Oct 3 – 28th, 2018.

Opening Reception: Wednesday Oct 3, 6 – 8pm

Inter/action: Sunday, October 14, 3-4pm

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

Seth Macbeth is interested in how creativity speaks a language all its own. In her work, Macbeth tells stories, in many forms and mediums. Our lives, our history, our worlds are made of stories. The intension behind her work is for the viewer to hear the story she is telling, but also begin a tale of their own, with their own experiences leading their interpretation. Lead by an emotional response to the imagery, Macbeth extracts her material from books, cutting them by hand and weaving them together until a balanced image is formed.

Arts Vote New West – All Candidates Meetings

Meditation Park – Monday, September 24

Meditation Park
(Comedy, Drama)
1hr 34min

Writer: Mina Shum
Director: Mina Shum
Stars: Pei-Pei Cheng, Tzi Ma, Sandra Oh
When: Monday, September 24, 2018 – 7:00 pm at Massey Theatre
Tickets: General Admission $9 – Seniors/Students $8
{Advance tickets at the Massey Theatre Box Office}
{Advance tickets online at ticketsnw.ca}{At the door, CASH ONLY}

Synopsis:
Devoted wife and mother, 60-year-old Maria Wang’s life is altered when she discovers an orange thong in her husband’s pants pocket, forcing her to confront how powerless she truly is. Her efforts to find out the truth send her on an unexpected journey of liberation.

Trailer:

MEDIA RELEASE: International Artist Day Anonymous Art Show to benefit local charity

Media Release
August 31, 2018
For Immediate Release

International Artist Day Anonymous Art Show to benefit local charity

New Westminster, BC – The Arts Council of New Westminster is pleased to announce that they have been selected by International Artist Day Anonymous Art Show as their charity of choice. Proceeds from sales at the 2^nd Annual Anonymous Art Show on October 25, 2018 will be benefitting the Arts Council of New Westminster’s work of “Bringing Community Together Through the Arts”. Funds will support the Arts Council’s work in the visual arts community, including ongoing programming at The Gallery at Queen’s Park such as the Inter/Action Artist Learning Series and Gallery Session monthly concert series.

Hosted at 100 Braid Street Studios, the International Artist Day Anonymous Art Show will feature over 100 well known and emerging artists exhibiting 12″ x 12″ art on canvas or wood panels, all works are signed only on the back of the piece. The anonymous nature of the show ensures that all the art is treated equally, and that the excitement of the unknown adds a special anticipation and excitement to the event.

The Anonymous Art Show Call for Artists is available online. More information about the International Artist Day Anonymous Art Show, please visit: https://internationalartistsdayyvr.com/

– 30 –

Key Dates:
The Anonymous Art Show Gala Opening 2018
Thursday, October 25, 100 Braid St Studios, 7:00-10:00pm
The Anonymous Art Show Artist Reception
Friday, October 26, 100 Braid St Studios, 7:00-10:00pm
Open Studio Viewing at 100 Braid Street Studios
Friday, October 26, 10:00-6:00pm
Saturday, October 27, 10:00-5:00pm
Sunday, October 28, 10:00-5:00pm

For more information:
Stephen O’Shea
Executive Director, Arts Council of New Westminster
info@acnw.ca | 604 525 3244 | www.acnw.ca
@ArtsCouncilNW (Twitter/Instagram/Facebook)
#ArtsNW

About International Artist Day

Launched in 2004 to honor the contribution artists make to society, International Artist Day has grown steadily in popularity around the world, and over the last few years has taken on a life of its own. Artists and their supporters in cities everywhere celebrate IAD. With the help of municipal and corporate sponsors they promote festivals and events designed to increase the visibility of art and artists in a wide variety of genres from painting, to writing, music, the digital arts, and everything in between. http://www.internationalartistday.com/

About the Arts Council of New Westminster

Founded in 1967, The Arts Council of New Westminster is a community arts organization built by individuals and member groups who share an interest in visual, performing, and literary arts. The Arts Council’s role in the community is to advocate for the arts and foster support for those engaging in artistic and cultural endeavors. Serving the community for 51 years, the ACNW continues to bring innovative new programming to New Westminster

Suzanne Laird – “Shift” – September 5 – 29, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Shift”
by Suzanne Laird

UPDATE: The exhibition will be closed on Sunday, September 30th due to an exhibition change-over.

Exhibition Dates: September 5 – 29, 2018.

Opening Reception: Wednesday, September 5, 6-8pm

Artist Talk: Sunday, September 16, 3-4pm

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

Suzanne Laird’s intention in this body of work is to shift perspective and consciousness from a place of pain and hurt to one of healing. That transformation is documented in a visual language created by the artist as she navigates the world in a state of acknowledgment, grievance, acceptance and in pursuit of happiness and beauty. Her work denotes tones of tension between fragility, vulnerability and strength, both in forms of subject matter and in the physicality of the materials. Explored through the lens of a feminist perspective, she uses art as a platform for sharing fragmented narratives of trauma and its transformative aftermath. We are capable of shifting narratives, of transforming pain into wisdom. She is a mixed media artist who is guided by curiosity, intuition and introspection. She primarily uses textiles and plaster and consistently experiments with these materials. Her artwork ranges from two-dimensional pieces referencing paintings to three dimensional sculptures.

Artists Bio

In 2002, Suzanne Laird earned her BFA in Visual Arts from the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, focusing on painting, sculpture, drawing, and media arts. In 2009, Laird graduated with a Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC. She has exhibited her work in Saskatoon and around Metro Vancouver, and continues to maintain her studio practice locally.

MEDIA RELEASE: Arts Council of New Westminster to host two All-Candidates Meetings

Media Release
August 23, 2018
For Immediate Release

Arts Council of New Westminster to host two All-Candidates Meetings

New Westminster, BC – The Arts Council of New Westminster will be hosting two All-Candidates meetings at the Centennial Lodge in September 2018. With a focus on the arts, candidates will have the opportunity to meet with local artists from the performing, visual, and literary arts community. Attendees will learn about the candidates’ ideas to develop and sustain the arts and the key role of the arts in our schools and our city. The meeting for Mayor and Council candidates will take place on September 18^th and for School Trustee candidates on September 26^th. Both events start at 7:00pm and run until 9:00pm.

The upcoming All-Candidates meetings are a part of the ACNW’s Arts Vote New West campaign that began on August 12^th, 2018. At the start of this campaign, artists and arts-engaged citizens shared an evening hearing from Brenda Leadlay of the BC Alliance for Arts and Culture on advocacy efforts across British Columbia in advance of the upcoming municipal elections. The evening also included a frank and informative discussion about the state of advocacy and of the Arts in New Westminster.

More information about these All-Candidates meetings and to RSVP, please visit: https://artsvotenewwestallcandidatesmeeting.eventbrite.com

Key Dates:
September 18, 2018 – Mayor and Council Candidates
September 26, 2018 – School Trustee Candidates
Location: Centennial Lodge, Queen’s Park
Time: Doors: 6:30pm, Event: 7:00pm – 9:00pm

For more information:
Stephen O’Shea
Executive Director, Arts Council of New Westminster
info@acnw.ca | 604 525 3244 | www.acnw.ca
@ArtsCouncilNW (Twitter/Instagram/Facebook)
#ArtsNW

About the Arts Council of New Westminster
Founded in 1967, The Arts Council of New Westminster is a community arts organization built by individuals and member groups who share an interest in visual, performing, and literary arts. The Arts Council’s role in the community is to advocate for the arts and foster support for those engaging in artistic and cultural endeavors. Serving the community for 51 years, the ACNW continues to bring innovative new programming to New Westminster

Inter/action – Lex Ireton – August 12, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

Lex Ireton

Artist Talk: Sunday, August 12, 2018. 3pm – 4pm.

The Gallery at Queen’s Park presents Inter/action: Artist Learning Series. Inter/action is a monthly free public event that facilitates dialogue, practice, and education between the exhibiting artists and members of the community. The programming will be developed and delivered by the artists at The Gallery at Queen’s Park during their exhibition, and will consist of creative events such as artist talks, performance art, theoretical or technical seminars, live drawing/painting, collaborative social practice activities, workshops, or performances. Inter/action: Artist Learning Series encourages the integration of the arts into daily life providing fully hands-on, barrier-free, no-cost art education that promotes intergenerational mentoring opportunities and inclusivity between backgrounds of gender, race, age and ability.

Artists Bio

Lex Ireton was born in the Kootenays and raised in New Westminster. Attending Capilano University from 2008-2011 she dabbled in printmaking, ceramics, painting, drawing and sculpture. After moving to Calgary in 2011 to study at ACAD she discovered glass and that has been the primary material ever since. Graduating with a BFA in 2014 Lex continues to travel back and forth across Canada working as a studio assistant while continuing to build her own body of work.

Canada Day 2018 Pick-a-Box Silent Auction RESULTS!

A big THANK YOU to everyone that celebrated Canada Day in Queen’s Park on July 1, 2018. We were thrilled to host the Pick-a-Box Silent Auction during the festivities to raise funds for “Arts in Queen’s Park”.

Special thanks to the City of New Westminster and the Canada Day Organizing Committee for putting together such an amazing event. We are also very grateful to the dedicated volunteers who ensured our event ran smoothly.

Together we raised over $1100 with the proceeds going to ACNW programming within Queen’s Park.

We couldn’t have done this event without the help of our amazing community and the local businesses who generously donated to our silent auction. We would like to thank the following amazing folks:

Another Beer Co
Anvil Centre Theatre
Belmont Cafe
Brand Squawk
Brick and Mortar Living
Burger Heaven
Custom Realty
Foreman Automotive/Integra Tire
Inn at the Quay
Key West Ford
Koyabell/Royal City Wrestling
Massey Theatre
Oxygen Yoga & Fitness
Pacific Breeze Winetasting
Pandora’s Locks

Patterson Brands
Pink Ribbon Bakery
Roger & Catherine Lee
Royal City Musical Theatre
Russian Spoon
Silverfinch Design
Steel and Oak Brewing Co.
Strong n’ Free
Taverna Greka
The Pirate and the Gypsy
Tojo Sticks and Bags
Uptown Business Association
Vagabond Players
Vancouver Aquarium
Vancouver Circus School

Lex Ireton – “Repeat After Me: An Exploration of Pattern” – August 1-26, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Repeat After Me: An Exploration of Pattern”
by Lex Ireton

Exhibition Dates: August 1 – 26, 2018.

Opening Reception: Wednesday, August 1, 6-8pm

Artist Talk: Sunday, August 12, 3-4pm

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

Lex Ireton’s glass work is heavily process oriented, where she explores her love of connecting with the material hands on. This invites constant learning of new techniques and embracing, even enhancing the phenomenon that occur when dealing with glass. Many of Ireton’s ideas evolve through working in the hot shop; always starting with a plan but reacting to the material step by step, knowing each moment has the potential to be a finished object.

Ireton draws inspiration from patterns occurring in the natural world. Ornamentation is laid out or carved into the glass in a very controlled manner. She can then encourage outside forces to affect the materials intrinsic qualities to create spontaneous effects on the pattern, manipulating a recognizable pattern to be as representational or abstract as she wants. Markings become fluid, stretching and moving in different ways depending on the softness of each colour, the addition of air and amount of heat.

Ireton explores the relationship between individual forms and how they interact with one another to create a united end product. By using repetition in pattern, texture, or components that make up a final piece, Ireton focuses on the connections created and how they inform the work as a whole. Working in multiples allows the finished version to be easily manipulated by the artist and the viewer, incorporating an element of play and the ability for the work to continue to change. Ireton also enjoys using the qualities of two different materials to interact with one another so they create either an opposing or reinforcing visual relationship. Relationships that form from the communication of different elements anthropomorphize the objects and bring in a social element.

Artists Bio

Inter/action – Tony Durke – July 15, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

Tony Durke

Artist Talk: Sunday, July 15, 2018. 3pm – 4pm.

Artists Bio

Tony Durke was born in Victoria BC in 1973, and grew up in Campbell River. In high school, Durke began commercial fishing, and then entered the forest industry. He later attended Canadian College in Victoria to study film arts. Duke has been working in film for 18 years, now specializing in art direction, which is a profession that involves colour, texture, and the entire design of the film. In his studio practice, Durke’s medium of choice is oil and mixed media on carved wood, and has explored this style of working for about 10 years. Durke now lives and works in New Westminster.

Tony Durke – “Realpolitik” – July 1-29, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Realpolitik”
by Tony Durke

Exhibition Dates: July 1 – 29, 2018.

Opening Reception: Wednesday, July 4, 6-8pm

Artist Talk: Sunday, July 15, 3-4pm

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

Art, in its many forms, challenges us to think about our world in new ways, sometimes engaging, sometimes enraging. These days it feels as if making art is survival, poring over slabs of wood while listening to what is and what should never be on the TV and radio. It worries but inspires, so it is all a double edged sword. As much positive energy that can be mustered is put into each piece, regardless of subject matter. Tony Durke’s goal is to spread some beauty around the world and at the same time be provocative, using only shapes, colour, and texture to describe a certain feeling or event.

The wood used in Tony Durke’s art is mostly recycled or up-cycled, sourced from telephone poles, scraps from cut blocks, discarded sets from the film industry, and the lumber yard. His preference is to repurpose wood and paint that has already completed a phase of its life. Durke assembles his compositions using an Olfa blade and sandpaper, and applies pastels, spray paint, pens, oil, and acrylics. Durke works to maintain the integrity of the raw wood, celebrating its past and present forms.

Realpolitik– “ The study of the forces that shape, maintain and alter the state is the basis of all political insight and leads to the understanding that the law of power governs the world of states just as the law of gravity governs the physical world.”

Artists Bio

CALL FOR ARTISTS – The Gallery at Queen’s Park – 2019

At the Arts Council of New Westminster, we live and work on the unceded, traditional territories of the Coast Salish peoples of the QayQayt (qiqéyt) Nation as well as all Coast Salish Nations.

THE GALLERY AT QUEEN’S PARK
EXHIBITION APPLICATION PACKAGE

CALL FOR ARTISTS 2019

Arts Council wishes to highlight how diverse our community is, and in order to break down any exclusionary barriers and create a platform for marginalized voices, artists on the LGBTQ spectrum, non-binary artists, artists of colour, Indigenous artists, and disabled artists, are strongly encouraged to submit.

Submissions will be received up to 4:00pm on
Friday August 31, 2018

Overview:

The ACNW operates a picturesque gallery in the Centennial Lodge, Queen’s Park known as The Gallery at Queen’s Park, which features a wide range of visual arts by local and emerging artists in exhibitions which change monthly.

This Call is for monthly exhibitions between February 2019 and November 2019. Exhibitions typically open on the first Wednesday of each month and generally close on the last Sunday of the month.

The Gallery at Queen’s Park has two exhibition rooms: The Eileen Montague Room (Main Gallery Space) and the Lower Studio (Lower Gallery Space) with a total linear hanging space of about 28 m (90 ft). Please indicate in your application if you are applying for an exhibition in the Main Gallery Space, the Lower Gallery Space, or both. Those applying for only one space may be paired with another artist during the exhibition period.

Artwork must be suitably framed, ready for hanging, or, if three-dimensional, appropriately mounted or otherwise ready for presentation.

As a community gallery, the gallery’s opening hours are maintained by volunteer staff, therefore the Artists selected for exhibitions will be expected to provide assistance in sitting the Gallery on all Saturday and Sundays from 1-5pm for the duration of their exhibition.

Eligibility:

To apply to this Call, you are not required to be a member of the Arts Council of New Westminster.
To exhibit, you must be a current member of the Arts Council of New Westminster at the time of your exhibition.
Artists whose work has already been exhibited in the gallery are invited to apply, allowing a 3-year interim between applications.

PLEASE NOTE: The proposed exhibition submission must not have been showcased in New Westminster in the preceding 12 months, nor (upon acceptance) be displayed in any other New Westminster gallery during the exhibiting year.

Budget:

The Council does not charge for exhibiting, nor does it pay an artist to exhibit. The Council receives a 25% donation on sales of work in the Gallery.
The Gallery at Queen’s Park will pay an honorarium of $75 for public programming during the exhibition, a part of the Inter/action Artist Learning Series.

How to Apply for an Exhibition:

The Gallery Exhibitions Selection Committee (GESC) meets once a year, in September, to consider applications for the following years. A well-prepared proposal helps in the selection.

To be considered at the next GESC meeting, please submit the following:

A selection of 8-10 digital images of proposed work you wish to exhibit. Digital images should be jpg format at 150 dpi; each image should be a maximum of 800 x 600 pixels. Image files should be clearly labelled with your Name, the Title of Work, Size in inches and Medium. Example: Artist-Title-Size-Medium.jpg
Contact information (mailing address, phone number, email, website). In this document, please provide a clear and concise statement explaining which space you are applying for (Main, Lower, Both)
An Artist Statement giving your aims and objectives as an artist in relation to your work.
A Curriculum Vitae (3 pages max.) to establish a better understanding of your background and experience.
A written proposal for public programming to be produced and hosted by the artist at the Gallery. The public programming event must take place during regular posted open hours, on a Sunday, during the exhibit. Proposed public programming may be events such as an artist talk, performance art, theoretical or technical seminar, live drawing/painting, social practice etc.

Please include all written material as PDF files and submit via email to gallery@acnw.ca with “Exhibition Submission – The Gallery at Queen’s Park” in the subject line. Please ensure that attachments total less than 5MB.

Deadlines for submission is 4:00pm on Friday August 31, 2018. Applications will not be rolled over. To be considered for an application for the following year, please re-apply.

The Selection/Exhibition Process:

The GESC will meet in September 2018 to consider all applications received. All applications will receive a reply by email, stating whether the work has been accepted. If your application has been successful, you will be contacted by telephone, an exhibition date will be confirmed, and a contract will be sent to you. This contract will outline your responsibilities and providing other details and dates. A signed contract is required before the exhibition can proceed.

Application Tips:

Be sure that all documents include your name, a working title of the proposed exhibition and complete contact information; phone number, email address, website and postal code.
Email submissions are preferred. For physical submissions, please phone the gallery at 604-525-3244 for equitable access procedures.
DO NOT send composite images or prepared slideshows
Please test all documents on a PC computer to ensure compatibility

Submit your application via email to: gallery@acnw.ca

Estimated Timeline:

July 1                        Call to Artists Launched
August 31                     Deadline to submit
Mid-September          Gallery Exhibition Selection Committee meets
Early October             Artists contacted
Late October                 Exhibition dates confirmed, contracts signed and returned
February – Nov 2019 Exhibition Schedule

Contact:

All enquiries should be directed to:
Samantha Newton, Gallery Coordinator
Phone: 604 525 3244
gallery@acnw.ca

For complete information on how to apply for an exhibition, please refer to the Exhibition Application package.
For more information about The Gallery at Queen’s Park, visit www.acnw.ca/gallery

Call for Board of Directors 2018

To download this Call for Board Members as a PDF, click here

Announcing the lineup for Music By The River 2018!

July 5 – Raincity Blue
July 12 – wax cowboy
July 19 – The Burying Ground
July 26 – Early Spirit
August 2 – Sweetz
August 9 – Francis Henson

From 6pm to 8pm each night, at the Westminster Pier Park Festival Lawn! Enjoy New West’s own beer and wine from the Eats at the Pier Concession! Bring your friends and family! We will see you there!

Music By The River 2018 lineup

Praxis – June 20, 2018

Praxis Alternative Yoga Classes & Figure Drawing

Featuring:

An After-Class Social with Steel & Oak Brewing Co. and Vancouver Fashion Truck

Free

Wednesday, June 20, 2018. 7pm – 8pm

@ The Centennial Lodge

“The process by which a theory, lesson, or skill is enacted, embodied, or realized. ‘Praxis’ may also refer to the act of engaging, applying, exercising, realizing, or practicing ideas.” – Feminist Family Theory Flashcards | Quizlet.com

Essentially, Praxis means practice. The artistic practice and yoga practice share the common methodology of examining, processing, and transforming the lived experience into creative self-expression. The Gallery at Queen’s Park’s is celebrating this commonality by creating a shared space for art forms and yoga through Praxis.

Praxis invites artists to practice figure drawing of consenting yoga class participants. This supports barrier-free access for members to practice drawing the human figure in dynamic poses, in a positive and engaging environment. This unique offering explores an understanding of the human body as a form as well as a tool. Each class will also include a post-class social where participants can connect over food or drinks from local businesses. In an effort to increase space for self-care that supports physical and mental health, provide access to figure drawing, and build community, The Gallery at Queen’s Park is partnering with Lululemon to offer this barrier-free monthly event in which instructors Jenni Higgins or Hillary Keegan will be leading a sensory experience that unites yoga, dance and movement, sound, and visual art.

Jenni Higgins teaches yoga across the New Westminster and Burnaby area and is the owner of MOVE Yoga.Pilates.Dance Studio in New Westminster and a Lululemon Ambassador for the Burnaby/New Westminster community.

Hillary Keegan teaches yoga across the Burnaby and New Westminster area as well and is an Alumni Lululemon Ambassador, Mala Collective Ambassador, Spiritual Gangster Ambassador, SUP Yoga, Van-Mermaid Ambassador, VEGA; Kings Island & Sage Advocate.

Lululemon Metrotown Our vision for our store is to create more than a place where people could get gear to sweat in, we want to create a community hub where people could learn and discuss the physical aspects of healthy living, mindfulness and living a life of possibility. It is also important for us to create real relationships with our guests and understand what they were passionate about, how they like to sweat and help them celebrate their goals. Today, we do this in our stores around the globe.

Brought to you by:

MOVE Yoga.Pilates.Dance
Santosha: Yoga, Meditation and Fitness
Arts Council of New Westminster
British Columbia Art Council
Lululemon Metrotown
City of New Westminster

NWSS Student Exhibition – “Our Journey to Here” – June 6-28, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Our Journey to Here”
by NWSS Student Exhibition

Exhibition Dates: June 6 – 28, 2018.

Opening Reception: Wednesday, June 6, 6-8pm

Graduation Reception: Thursday, June 28, 6-8pm

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

The New Westminster 2018 Graduating Students have worked hard to bring together their best work for our FIRST Grad Show. The show includes all manner of creation: ink drawing, painting, sculpture, and photography. These artists are excited to launch themselves into the big world and land in a way that honours their high school life. As you wander through the gallery of images and sculpture you will see yourself mirrored in their youth and you will proudly imagine the strength of our community’s future. Feel free to take selfies with your favourite image and artist on Grad Night, June 28, 2018.

ACNW Strategic Plan 2018 – 2021 Community Engagement Survey and Session

The draft ACNW Strategic Plan 2018-2021 is ready!

The Arts Council of New Westminster is proud of what we have been able to accomplish through our 2015-2018 Strategic Plan. Our overarching goals were to become relevant in the city and to bring community together through the arts. We were especially proud to have our successes acknowledged by receiving the ‘Community Builder Award’ by The Record this past December.

The Board of Directors of the Arts Council of New Westminster are very excited about the draft plan from our second Strategic Planning process this Spring. You have been an important part of this process!

Please come to our Community Engagement Event to share your feedback about the draft. This document plots the direction for the Arts Council to continue to grow and improve so that we can move from being ‘relevant’ in the city to becoming ‘indispensable’!

View the draft plan here | Can’t attend? Provide feedback here

Queen’s Park Parent Participation Preschool 3rd Annual Art Exhibition – “The Kindness CONNECTION” – May 23-27, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“The Kindness CONNECTION”
by Queen’s Park Parent Participation Preschool 3rd Annual Art Exhibition

Exhibition Dates: May 23 – 27, 2018.

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

The Gallery at Queen’s Park is pleased to present a pop-up exhibition by the Queen’s Park Parent Participation Preschool. This group exhibition will display artwork by the current students of QPPS, highlighting our city’s future artists and makers. Queen’s Park Parent Participation Preschool was established in 1965, and has since offered a quality and nurturing preschool program for three and four year old children, to families living in New Westminster and its surrounding communities. This exhibition is an example of a place where children and their parents are encouraged to learn together through play, in a caring environment that fosters a sense of community.

The Leisure Seeker – Monday, May 28

The Leisure Seeker
(Adventure, Comedy, Drama)
1hr 52min

Writer: Michael Zadoorian (novel), Stephen Amidon (screenplay)
Director: Paolo Virzì
Stars: Helen Mirren, Donald Sutherland, Christian McKay
When: Monday, May 28, 2018 – 7:30 at Massey Theatre
Tickets: General Admission $9 – Seniors/Students $8
{Advance tickets at the Massey Theatre Box Office}
{Advance tickets online at ticketsnw.ca}{At the door, CASH ONLY}

Synopsis:
The film stars Academy Award winner Helen Mirren and two-time Golden Globe-winner Donald Sutherland as a runaway couple going on an unforgettable journey in the faithful old RV they call The Leisure Seeker, travelling from Boston to The Ernest Hemingway Home in Key West. They recapture their passion for life and their love for each other on a road trip that provides revelation and surprise right up to the very end.

Trailer:

Praxis – May 16, 2018

Praxis Alternative Yoga Classes & Figure Drawing

Featuring:

An After-Class Social with Steel & Oak Brewing Co. and Vancouver Fashion Truck

Free
Register Here

Wednesday, May 16, 2018. 7pm – 8pm

@ The Centennial Lodge

Brought to you by:

MOVE Yoga.Pilates.Dance
Santosha: Yoga, Meditation and Fitness
Arts Council of New Westminster
British Columbia Art Council
Lululemon Metrotown
City of New Westminster

Arts Council of New Westminster announce scholarship recipient for 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster is proud to announce Hailey Connor as the 2018 recipient of the ACNW Scholarship through the Douglas College Foundation. Hailey is studying as an actor in the performing arts department at Douglas College. We are excited for Hailey’s future as an actor and look forward to her sharing her artistic talent with the community of New Westminster.

In photo (left to right): Barb Webb, ACNW Secretary; Stephen O’Shea, ACNW Executive Director; Leanne Ewen, ACNW President; Hailey Connor, Scholarship Recipient, Simrit Kainth, ACNW Vice-President; Leslie Murray, ACNW Treasurer; Jane Evans, Manager, Philanthropic Relations, Douglas College Foundation.

CALL FOR MUSICIANS – ACNW Summer Music Program – 2018

Thank you for your interest in our 2018 Summer Music Program. Our Call for Musicians is now closed

The Rhodo Photo Contest – The Gallery at Queen’s Park

To celebrate The Gallery at Queen’s Park’s unique natural environment, we have decided to ring in spring with a photography contest! The subject is the beautiful and bountiful rhododendron bushes outside of the Centennial Lodge and inside the park! All styles of photographs and editing are welcome (black & white, macro, portraits, landscapes, manipulated, selfies etc.) The purpose of the contest is creative expression and appreciation of nature!

To be eligible to win, photographers are required to:

1. Photograph the rhododendrons in Queen’s Park.

2. Post their photograph on instagram.

3. Include the tags: @thegalleryqp #thegalleryatqueenspark #rhodophoto_acnw

4. Tag one friend.

The Rhodo Photo Contest winner will be selected on May 31st, 2018.

Inter/action – Diane Roy – May 6, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

Diane Roy

Artist Talk: Sunday, May 6, 2018. 3pm – 4pm.

Artists Bio

Born in Ontario, Diane Roy grew up in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Québec. In 1977, she received a D.E.C in Art and Literature from college in Rouyn, Québec. In 1980, she graduated in Fine Art and Education from the University of Québec in Chicoutimi. She took part in an exhibition on tour across Canada in 1980. From 1982 to 1986, she lived in Edmonton, Alberta, where she began a production of fibre sculptures. She received a production grant from Alberta Culture in 1984. She has lived in Vancouver, British Columbia since 1986. From 1986 to 1990, she studied the medium of holography while pursuing her work in fibre art and education. She has represented Canada in an international show in Morocco, in 1989. She participated in International Textile exhibition in Japan (1994), France (1996) and Spain in (1998). In 2014, she has shown a first retrospective of her work dating from 1980-2014 in 2015, she achieved her first public art project in North Delta, B.C.

Diane Roy – “Allegory of our Seas II” – May 2-20, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Allegory of our Seas II”
by Diane Roy

Exhibition Dates: May 2 – 20, 2018.

Opening Reception: Wednesday, May 2, 6-8pm

Artist Talk: Sunday, May 6, 3-4pm

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

The striking beauty of landscapes and oceans has always fascinated fibre artist Diane Roy. Roy uses a variety of knots, bends, weaving and crochet to produce her marine formations. The mystical characters seen in the deep and shallow waters steer Roy’s practice and has deepened her concern for the fate of our oceans and the creatures that inhabit them. Her material exploration utilizes recycled materials to promote the idea of re-using in the process of art making, while raising awareness for our natural world.

Artists Bio

The Florida Project – Monday, April 30

The Florida Project
(Drama)
1hr 51min

Writer: Sean Baker, Chris Bergoch
Director: Sean Baker
Stars: Brooklynn Prince, Bria Vinaite, Willem Dafoe
When: Monday, April 30, 2018 – 7:30 at Massey Theatre
Tickets: General Admission $9 – Seniors/Students $8
{Advance tickets at the Massey Theatre Box Office}
{Advance tickets online at ticketsnw.ca}{At the door, CASH ONLY}

Synopsis:
The Florida Project tells the story of a precocious six year-old and her ragtag group of friends whose summer break is filled with childhood wonder, possibility and a sense of adventure while the adults around them struggle with hard times.

Trailer:

Inter/action – Dennis Greer – April 15, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

Dennis Greer

Artist Talk & Painting Demonstration: Sunday, April 15, 2018. 3pm – 4pm.

Artists Bio

Dennis Greer received a BFA, majoring in painting, from the University of Alberta and a Graduate Diploma in illustration from Sheridon College of Art and Design in Oakville, Ontario. Upon graduating from the UofA he was immediately employed as an illustrator/graphic designer for the Edmonton Separate School Board where he illustrated various books and posters curriculum materials. He then went on to be an illustrator and museum display artist with the Government of Alberta, in the Historic Sites Dept. and after moving to British Columbia, was, for over fifteen years, the “Artistic Coordinator” for WorkSafe BC where he designed and illustrated various safety related manuals and posters. His teaching experience includes stints with the UofA and Grant MacEwan Community College in Edmonton as well as Vancouver Community College and Emily Carr University of Art and Design in Vancouver. He is currently teaching drawing and illustration at the University of the Fraser Valley in Abbotsford, B.C. Greer’s home and studio is in the Commercial Drive community of Vancouver, British Columbia. He is currently working on paintings for a show in Hung Jo China in the fall of 2018.

Dennis Greer – “Sea-to-Sky” – March 28-April 29, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Sea-to-Sky”
by Dennis Greer

Exhibition Dates: March 28 – April 29, 2018.

Opening Reception: Wednesday, April 4, 6-8pm

Artist Talk: Sunday, April 15, 3-4pm

Free Admission.
The artist will be in attendance on the weekends.

Exhibition Statement

The Gallery at Queen’s Park is pleased to present Dennis Greer’s solo exhibition Sea-to-Sky. The expansiveness and quiet energy of coastal B.C. are strongly evident in the imagery and muted palette of Dennis Greer’s recent paintings. Greer has been experimenting with working on various surfaces including aluminum and wood as well as using cold wax and linseed oil with oil paint in an attempt to simulate the translucency of the rainy west coast atmosphere. The personalized style that Greer has developed attempts to translate and interpret nature through saturated layers of transparent glazes. Greer’s art is a transformative interpretation rather than a literal rendering with the intention of evoking the emotion, memory, and essence of the west coast landscape.

Artists Bio

Call for Committee Members – The Gallery at Queen’s Park

Interested in making a difference to the New Westminster arts community? Consider volunteering on the Visual Arts Committee or one of its sub-committees.

These committees plan, develop, and facilitate arts activities that engage the public, spark dialogue, and encourage collaboration. Committee members create connections and community through The Gallery at Queen’s Park program. The Visual Arts Committee and its sub-committees also work to improve artists’ networks and build continuity and presence through ongoing involvement in community events.

The Visual Arts Committee are chaired by members of the ACNW board; members are volunteers with professional experience in their fields and are selected through application and interview by a Board appointed committee. Recommended allocations are approved by ACNW’s Board of Directors.

Committee Members must enjoy working and interacting with people and have a positive attitude. Committee members receive no remuneration for their work but may be reimbursed for authorized expenditures made on behalf of ACNW. The ACNW’s committees and juries reflect the diversity of our city and its evolving arts practices. Maximum term: 3 years.

Committees

We are seeking members on the following committees:

1) Visual Arts Committee

2) Installation Sub-Committee

3) Exhibition Selection Sub-Committee

4) Maintenance Sub-Committee

5) Volunteer Sub-Committee

6) Permanent Collection Sub-Committee

Roles and Responsibilities of ANCW Committee Members

Committees support the operations of The Gallery at Queen’s Park program. The committees also broaden and strengthen the Arts Council’s community base. Committee members review program delivery, advise the Board of Directors on the needs of the arts community and general policy matters.

Committee members:

Attend monthly committee meetings at least six times per year and email the committee chair or event coordinator as needed
Attend and support community events at The Gallery at Queens Park. Responsibilities for each event vary depending on the needs of the organizer/artist.
Recommend changes in programming/governance to the ACNW Board of Directors
Maintain an awareness of the arts community and the changing artistic practices, trends and issues within the discipline
Advise on related matters, including the development of new opportunities/needs in the community
Promote arts events online (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)

Committee members are viewed as representatives of the Arts Council of New Westminster and should therefore conduct themselves in an appropriately professional manner, respecting their ACNW responsibilities and obligations and following the Ground Rules for Group Deliberations and Consensus Building as approved by the Board January 2016. Time required is approximately 4-6 hours per month.

Criteria for Committee Membership

Committee members must:

Be a member of the Arts Council.
Be knowledgeable and experienced in their respective discipline, either as a professional or volunteer.
Have no real or perceived bias respecting any special interest group while serving as Committee members.
Consider the best interests of the entire community.
Be willing and able to make a significant contribution of time during their tenure.

While the number of formal meetings may not be more than six each year, committee members will need to dedicate of considerable periods of time to review programming, attend events and consult with ACNW staff and other committee members. Time required is approximately 4-6 hours per month.

Benefits

Learn about the various communities in New Westminster; community art practices; local events and artists; and environmental art. Meet and work with lots of great people and for great organization!

How to Apply

To apply for a volunteer role, please send your information to info@acnw.ca Please include your resume and a statement as to why you are interested in the arts and which committee you are interested in.

Inter/action – Iris Mes-Low – March 18, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

Iris Mes-Low

Artist Talk: Sunday, March 18, 2018. 3pm – 4pm.

Artists Bio

Iris Mes-Low is a New Westminster Artist born in The Netherlands with work in public and private collections in both Europe and North America. She works full-time in her studio at Braid St Studios in New Westminster. She has been painting and exhibiting her work for over 30 years.

Praxis Alternative Yoga – March 21, 2018

Praxis Alternative Yoga Classes

By Donation Drop-in $1-7

Wednesday, March 21, 2018. 7pm – 8pm

@ The Centennial Lodge

We’re bringing something new to our community. An all ages all level movement journey with a twist! Join us at The Gallery at Queen’s Park for some Yoga in a non-traditional space. Jenni will be leading you through a sensory experience. Connecting community, art, sound, and movement.

Jenni is the owner of MOVE Studio in New Westminster and a Lululemon Ambassador for the Burnaby/New Westminster community.

Brought to you by:

MOVE Yoga.Pilates.Dance
Arts Council of New Westminster
British Columbia Art Council
Lululemon Metrotown

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL – NEW WEST SUMMER SPOTLIGHT FESTIVAL

The Arts Council of New Westminster (ACNW) Performing Arts Committee has identified the need for a one-day summer performing arts festival to take place in Queens Park Concert Bowl on August 11, 2018. This dynamic, entertaining, new summer event will feature a variety of local performing arts groups and performers, engaging the community with vibrant arts programming and appealing to the different demographics within the community.

This one-day event will feature eight separate performance acts, performing for no-more than 40 minutes. Event organization, marketing, and a stage crew will be provided by the New Westminster Arts Council and the Performing Arts Committee.

We are looking for applications to perform at this exciting new event, by locally-based individuals, groups, or organizations. As the focus of this event is on the performing arts, the Council and Committee are seeking applications from any interested performers in such applicable performance avenues as drama, comedy, song, dance, circus, etc

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Overall proposal suitability: How potentially engaging is this performance
Diversity of the performance
Applicability of the performance for a community event
Viability of proposal
Technical expertise and experience of applicant

Applicants should provide the following information as part of their proposal for consideration:

Description of experience in planning, rehearsing, and performing in the community.
List of how many performers are involved
Detailed description of the performance proposed
Estimated length of performance
Equipment needed for performance (Please see list of venue provided equipment. We will provide additional equipment where possible, but please note we cannot accommodate all additional equipment requirements)

The proposal should be no longer than two pages. Keep information as brief as possible.

The New Westminster Arts Council and Performing Arts Council have established a modest budget for this event. Each performance group will be given a modest honorarium.

Questions about RFP process and eligibility may be directed to Stefanie Swinnard, ACNW Performing Arts Committee Chair at info@acnw.ca

All successful applicants will be required to be members of the Arts Council of New Westminster

Deadline: Please submit your proposal by March 31, 2018 at 5:00 pm. Following that time, proposals may be accepted and reviewed but no guarantees are provided.

Send ONE electronic copy with supporting documentation to info@acnw.ca

All submissions will be juried by a panel of professional artists, educators, and administrators between April 1^st and 30th 2018.

Shortlisted applicants will be notified by April 30^th , 2018

To download the entire RFP document as a PDF, click here

For more info, email info@acnw.ca
www.acnw.ca

Iris Mes-Low – “Eulogy on the Family Home” – March 7–25, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Eulogy on the Family Home”
by Iris Mes-Low

Exhibition Dates: March 7–25, 2018.

Opening Reception: Wednesday, March 7, 6-8pm

Artist Talk: Sunday, March 18, 3-4pm

Free Admission.
The artist will be in attendance on the weekends.

Exhibition Statement

The Gallery at Queen’s Park is pleased to present Iris Mes-Low’s solo exhibition Eulogy on the Family Home. Iris Mes-Low’s series of paintings and computer manipulated giclées are based on houses in New Westminster. Addressing the affordability crisis in Metro Vancouver, Mes-Low explores the idea of what is a possibility for some is a pipe dream for many and a reality for few. Mes-Low’s subjects are represented in a whimsical manner that express the uniqueness of the houses in the area, and are placed in reverse and in a fantasy setting.

Artists Bio

Now Hiring: New West Cultural Crawl Coordinator – Canada Summer Jobs

The New West Cultural Crawl Coordinator will be responsible for full program delivery. This position will coordinate, administer, and promote the New West Cultural Crawl, which takes place on August 10/11/12, 2018, with the aid of volunteers and potential staff support as available.

Responsibilities:

• Participating in the facilitation and the coordination of New West Cultural Crawl, a free two-day summer arts and culture series throughout New Westminster
• Building long term connections and partnerships with the artists, the arts community, local businesses and service organizations.
• Monitoring and revising organizational structure model, positions, and tasks
• Facilitating volunteer involvement
• Helping plan and facilitate meetings, taking minutes, email meeting notifications
• Volunteer coordination and mediation: Pre-Festival and weekly coordination and scheduling of volunteers as well as assigning and oversight of regular duties
• Collection of data (including attendance records, sales figures, donations, etc)
• Tracking goals, progress, and deadlines
• Onsite day of support

Qualifications:

• An interest in and/or knowledge of Event Management and Promotions
• Completion of one year of post-secondary education
• Computer literacy, experience with multiple social media platforms
• Attention to detail and ability to work independently
• Excellent communication skills – written and verbal
• Information gathering and information monitoring
• High degree of self-motivation and creative problem solving
• Culturally aware and a love for the Arts
• Available to work weekends and evenings

Timeline: May 7, 2018 to August 24, 2018, Monday to Friday; however, a flexible week may be necessary in order to meet programming needs.
Remuneration: $14.00 per hour, 40 hrs per week
Submit resume and cover letter by email to info@acnw.ca before 5:00pm on April 9, 2018.
Include “NW Cultural Crawl Coordinator – Application” as the subject of your email.

To download a PDF of this job description, click here

Inter/action – Manuel Axel Strain – Feb 18, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

Manuel Axel Strain

Artist Talk: Sunday, February 18, 2018. 3pm – 4pm.

Artists Bio

Manuel Axel Strain is an interdisciplinary artist of Coast Salish, Secwepemc, and Okanagan descent. Strain was raised in the suburban neighbourhood of Maple Ridge with little knowledge of what it meant to be a person of First Nations descent. This upbringing lead Strain to examine the construction of First Nations identities – in particular the internal conflicts that arise from imposed identity constructs. He works with painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and video installations. His practice confronts the legacies of colonization that have been left upon the identities of the First Nations people of Canada. Strain is mainly concerned with post-colonial notions of hybridity, assimilation, cultural appropriation, self determination and resistance. Through the appropriation of euro-centric art he simultaneously accepts these legacies and rejects them while subverting colonial perception of indigenous art. His purpose is to redefine his indigeneity and break the cycle of inaccurate generalizations. His goal is to move beyond the binary opposition of the colonizer and the colonized to establish new ontologies for the First Nations identity.

Manuel Axel Strain – “Mutations” – February 7–25, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Mutations”
by Manuel Axel Strain

Exhibition Dates: February 7–25, 2018.
Opening Reception: Wednesday, February 7, 6-8pm

Free Admission.
The artist will be in attendance on the weekends.

Exhibition Statement

The Gallery at Queen’s Park is pleased to present Manuel Axel Strain’s solo exhibition Mutations. Mutations is an on-going self reflective practise in which artist Manuel Axel Strain attempts to understand the way colonization has led to a contorted sense of identity. Through this investigation of self, Strain hopes to renegotiate the relationship to his First Nations identity. Strain intends to use his lived experience to inspire social and political change in the colonial state of Canada.

Artists Bio

You are Inviting! ACNW Strategic Planning 2018

Please REGISTER for any of the five events happening throughout New Westminster:

Can’t make it in person? Please fill out our online survey here

Photos from #ACNW50 – 50th Anniversary Celebration – Nov 26 2017

ACNW Permanent Collection – December 1, 2016 – January 28, 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“ACNW Permanent Collection”

Exhibition Dates: December 1, 2017 – January 28, 2018.

Winter Holiday Hours:
The Gallery will be closed December 16, 2017 – January 9th, 2018

Exhibition Statement

ACNW50 recognition by MLA Judy Darcy

(L to R) ACNW Executive Director Stephen O’Shea; ACNW President Leanne Ewen;
Judy Darcy, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, MLA for New Westminster

Artwork featured in the above image by:

ACNW50 recognition by MP Peter Julian

(L to R) ACNW Executive Director Stephen O’Shea; ACNW Board Member Stefanie Swinnard; Peter Julian, Member of Parliament for New Westminster-Burnaby

ACNW50 Presentation and City of New Westminster Proclamation

New Westminster Mayor Jonathan Cote, ACNW President Leanne Ewen and Executive Director Stephen O’Shea
**Photo Credit: Brad Cavanagh**

Arts Council of New Westminster President Leanne Ewen and Executive Director Stephen O’Shea gave a presentation to Mayor Cote and Council on November 6th, 2017 at New Westminster City Hall. The presentation highlighted the successes of the Arts Council of New Westminster in 2017. At the end of the presentation, Mayor Cote read a Proclamation in celebration of our 50th anniversary.

Join us as we spend November celebrating our 50th anniversary:

50th Anniversary Celebration on November 26, 2017 from 2:30pm – 5:00pm at the Centennial Lodge.
A month long exhibition by celebrated New Westminster artist, Joseph Plaskett, on loan from the New Westminster Public Library
A secret concert at The Gallery at Queen’s Park

Let’s celebrate the future of the Arts Council as we raise a glass to toast the last 50 years of helping elevate the arts in New Westminster!

Arts Council of New Westminster 50th Anniversary Celebration

Come help us celebrate the Arts Council’s 50th anniversary!
Yes, that’s right, the Arts Council has been a part of New Westminster for 50 years. To celebrate this milestone, we want to gather as many people as we can who have been involved with the Arts Council over the years to chat, share stories and celebrate. There will be food, wine and entertainment. Please mark your calendar for our celebrations which will take place Sunday, November 26 right after the AGM.
AGM starts at 1:30. Celebration starts at 2:30.
Hope to see you there!

Let’s celebrate the future of the Arts Council as we raise a glass to toast the last 50 years of helping elevate the Arts in New Westminster.

Sunday, November 26, 2017
2:30 PM – 5:00 PM PST
At the Centennial Lodge

Please RSVP here: http://acnw50.eventbrite.ca/

ACNW 50th Anniversary Celebration Exhibition – Joseph Plaskett – Nov 1-26, 2017

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“ACNW 50th Anniversary Celebration Exhibition”
A selection of Joseph Plaskett’s work, on loan from the Collection of the New Westminster Public Library

Exhibition Dates: November 1-26, 2017
Gallery Hours: Wed 1-8pm, Thurs-Sun 1-5pm
Celebration Reception: Sunday, November 26, 2:30-5pm
RSVP here

Exhibition Statement

The Gallery at Queen’s Park presents a selection of works from the Plaskett Collection on loan from the New Westminster Public Library. This exhibition is in connection with the Arts Council of New Westminster’s 50th Anniversary Celebration during the month of November, 2017.

Also included in the celebration will be other events, including Analog 3.0 held at the River Market, and a secret concert at The Gallery at Queen’s Park on November 29th. Join us for The ACNW 50th Anniversary Celebration Reception at the Centennial Lodge held on November 26th, from 2:30 – 5:00pm.

Artist Bio

Joseph “Joe” Plaskett (12 July 1918 – 21 September 2014) was a Canadian painter. He studied with many prominent Canadian painters like A.Y. Jackson, Jack Shadbolt, Lawren Harris and Jock Macdonald. Plaskett was a pupil of Hans Hofmann in New York and Provincetown in 1947 and 1948.

Plaskett was born in New Westminster, British Columbia in 1918. In 1950, he arrived in Paris where he studied with Fernand Léger, and Jean Lombard, etching and engraving with Stanley William Hayter. He taught intermittently in Canada until 1957. He then settled in Paris where his studio became an informal salon for Canadian painters, writers, poets and filmmakers, interfacing with artists from other countries.

Plaskett studied art in Banff, San Francisco, New York, London and Paris. He lived in Paris from 1951 until shortly before his death when he moved to Suffolk, England. His chosen subjects were always intimate expressions of everyday life – interiors, still life, and portraits of friends and models.

Plaskett continued to paint daily until his death on 21 September 2014 at the age of 96.

More information about Joseph Plaskett:
http://www.joeplaskett.com/
Wikipedia

Click image to see Flickr photo album

Winter Harp – The Gallery at Queen’s Park – Nov 29, 2017 – By Donation

Winter Harp is giving an exclusive one-hour concert in The Gallery at Queen’s Park.

Wednesday, Nov. 29 at 7:30 p.m. This is the most intimate Winter Harp concert you will ever attend. You’ll be treated to heart-warming carols performed by singers with harps, cello, violin, flute, piccolo, percussion and medieval instruments. Come see the instruments and players up close during this magical afternoon at the Gallery. Admission couldn’t be better — it’s by donation.

For more information about Winter Harp: http://www.winterharp.com/

AGM NOTICE 2017

The Arts Council of New Westminster
2017 Annual General Meeting
will be on Sunday, November 26th 2017.

Venue: Centennial Lodge in Queen’s Park
Time: 1:30pm – 2:30 pm

After our formal AGM, please plan to stay for our 50th Anniversary Celebration, 2:30pm – 5:00pm. Click here to RSVP

We looking forward to seeing and hearing from you.

ACNW MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL NOTICE

Dear Member,

Your membership in The Arts Council of New Westminster (ACNW) is very important to us. Your membership with the ACNW needs to be renewed before December 31st in order to remain active. Please take this letter as a friendly reminder to renew if you have not already done so. Your renewed Membership will be valid for the 2018 calendar year.

The Arts Council of New Westminster has been active in the community for fifty years. Since its incorporation as a not-for-profit society, the ACNW has met its mandate to encourage, support and nurture emerging talents and increase awareness of the arts in the community. We have been able to accomplish this with a strong membership base.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, we thank you for your continued support through renewing your membership with the ACNW. Please share this reminder with anyone you might know who may also be interested in membership with the ACNW.

Sincerely,
Stephen O’Shea
Executive Director

Simply renew your membership by sending an email money transfer to info@acnw.ca
Other options: Pay online via Paypal, Print form and mail,
or in person at The Gallery at Queen’s Park

Call for Submissions: “From Life to Death” Group Exhibition

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

“From Life to Death” Group Exhibition
Presented by the Arts Council of New Westminster
and New West Hospice Society
at
Anvil Centre Community Art Space

The Arts Council of New Westminster and the New West Hospice Society have partnered to present an exhibition that aims to normalize conversations and messages about dying, death and grief. For the most part, our community is death-denying and we seek to create a dialogue that encourages individuals to share their stories and journeys on these issues. Our intention is to galvanize the arts community to produce pieces that investigate the personal journey we all make through life, until our deaths.

The theme is open to the artist’s interpretation, but in considering a piece for the show, exhibited works will consider the journey we are making to live until death, the way the artist would like to see their lives at death, how living is taking place until the last breath, and what they have learned from those who died before them. We are seeking personal interpretations of the theme and welcome short write-ups that enhance the artwork through story.

This Call for Submissions is open to emerging and established artists who reside or have a studio practice in New Westminster. A jury of professional artists and representatives of the ACNW and NW Hospice Society will adjudicate the exhibition submissions. The ACNW will coordinate the delivery of all artwork to the Anvil Centre in advance of the exhibition start date.

Theme: “From Life to Death”
Deadline for submissions: January 31, 2018
Jury response: February 9, 2018
Delivery of work(s) at the Arts Council Office: February 16, 2018
Exhibition opening: April 5, 2018 – 5 to 7pm
Exhibition period: March 31 to June 1, 2018

Please note:

Work must be completed at time of exhibition submission.
All exhibited works must be two-dimensional media, as per the guidelines of the Community Art Space (link).
Work must be suitably framed, ready for hanging
To exhibit, you must be a current member of the Arts Council of New Westminster at the time of the exhibition. The Council does not charge for exhibiting, nor does it pay an artist to exhibit. Click here to become a member of the ACNW.

To be considered for this group exhibition, please submit the following via email:

Artist name, contact information, website and social media links
100-word Artist biography
Application of the theme; how does your work relate to the theme, 250 words
1-3 images of proposed artworks you wish to exhibit. Digital images should be jpg format at 150 dpi; each image should be a maximum of 800 x 600 pixels. Image files should be clearly labelled with your Name, the Title of Work, Size in inches and Medium. Example: Artist-Title-Size-Medium.jpg
List of artwork information identifying artist name, title, medium, size, and date
Current CV
Short statement identifying where you heard about the Group Exhibition

Please include all written material as PDF files and submit via email to info@acnw.ca with “Exhibition Submission – From Life To Death” in the subject line. Please ensure that attachments total less than 3MB.

About the Arts Council of New Westminster
Founded in 1967, The Arts Council of New Westminster is a community arts organization built by individuals and member groups who share an interest in visual, performing and literary arts. The Arts Council’s role in the community is to advocate for the arts and foster support for those engaging in artistic and cultural endeavors.
More info: http://www.acnw.ca

About the New West Hospice Society
New West Hospice Society was incorporated in August 2016 with the goal of working to make New Westminster a Compassionate City where neighbour helps neighbour at end of life and where talking about dying, death and grief are not taboo subjects.
More info: https://newwesthospice.ca/

About the Anvil Centre Community Art Space
The space forges creative dialogue, brings attention to local art as well as creates new opportunities for artists in our city. It is an accessible space, where New Westminster based art groups can organize members’ exhibitions. It is open to New Westminster emerging and established artists working in two-dimensional media.
More info: https://anvilcentre.com/discover/community-art-space/

Contact
Stephen O’Shea, Executive Director
Arts Council of New Westminster
info@acnw.ca | 604 525 3244 | www.acnw.ca

Click here to download this Call for Submission

“Contribution – ACNW Volunteer Exhibition” – October 4-29, 2017

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Contribution – ACNW Volunteer Exhibition”

Exhibition Dates: October 4-29, 2017.
Opening Reception: Wednesday, October 4, 6-8pm

Exhibition Statement

The Arts Council of New Westminster (ACNW) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the visual, literary and performing arts. Its aim is to bring the community together through the Arts. The Volunteers at ACNW are essential to the work we do to promote the arts, dedicating their time and energy to create more profound connections to the community of New Westminster. “Contribution: ACNW Volunteer Exhibition” explores the artistic practices of Robin Chui, Julie Epp, Steve Holmes, Keith Oberding, Randy Quickfall, Barb Webb, Betteanne Wilson, and Kat Vedah, who devote their time to The Gallery at Queen’s Park in various volunteer capacities. Their contributions not only make the daily operations of the Gallery possible, but their passion for the Arts enriches the environment of the Arts Council, providing greater opportunities for collaboration within a hub for the Arts in New West.

Free Admission.
The artist will be in attendance on the weekends.

Sing-A-Long Grease – Oct 19, 2017

Feast on the Fraser – Sept 25 2017 – Taste of Sri Lanka Gallery Long Table

The Arts Council of New Westminster and Emerald Culinary & Catering Club present The Taste of Sri Lanka! This exciting long table dinner includes an innovative sampling of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. This exclusive dinner wil take place in the recently refurbished ‘The Gallery at Queen’s Park’ amidst works from talented local artist Tajah Olsen. Tickets for this event are priced at $50 (taxes & service fees extra) and include a wine and food pairing.

Feast on the Fraser is an innovative culinary campaign creating signature events in unique spaces that pair food, fun, arts and entertainment within New Westminster, BC. From longtable dinners to cultural tastings there’s an event to suit anyone’s palette. The campaign’s launch event is on September 14, 2017 with events taking place September 22, 2017 – October 1, 2017.

Purchase tickets here

#FeastOnTheFraser | #madeinnewwest | Facebook.com/FeastOnTheFraser

New West Artists – Art Squared – August 30 to Sept 4, 2017

New West Artists
and
Arts Council New Westminster
presents
Art Squared Exhibition and Sale

Located at The Gallery at Queen’s Park,
Queen’s Park, New Westminster

OPENING RECEPTION:
THURS August 31, 2017
Free to attend.
Light Refreshments. Meet and Greet with Artists.

Exhibition Hours:
August 30th – 1pm-8pm
August 31st – 1pm-9pm
September 1st – 1pm-5pm
September 2nd – 4th – 11am-5pm.

Art sizes and pricing:
8″ x 8″ $80
10″ x 10″ $100
12″ x 12″ $120

www.newwestartists.com

Tajah Olson – “My Face My Canvas” – September 6–30, 2017

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“My Face My Canvas”
by Tajah Olson

Exhibition Dates: September 6–30, 2017.
Opening Reception: Wednesday, September 6, 6-8pm

Free Admission.
The artist will be in attendance on the weekends.

Exhibition Statement

The Gallery at Queen’s Park presents Tajah Olson’s solo-exhibition, My Face My Canvas. Olson’s artistic practice is based in the embodiment of various constructed personas or animas, expressed visually through dressing and painting her own body. Olson physically re-enacts movements and feelings from memories and social observations, formulating her characters and painting process. The result of this mark-making through gesture creates the imagery and patterning seen on her body in her photographs. Through the use of escapism within her performances, Olson isolates herself and her subjects from place. She states, “I am a queen, a goddess, a warrior, I am a king, I am white, green, black, I am a spirit, a man, a child, a woman, I am a movement, I am feeling, I am a celebration and anything that I choose to be, even if it does not exist in this world.” Through this process, Olson transcends the physical and social constructs of identity, race, ethnicity and gender. With the aim of aesthetic appreciation of her constructed image, and detachment from the history and language carried within the colour of her skin, Olson addresses her experience as a racial and ethnic Other within western culture, and reflects on her identity and memories growing up in Malawi.

Artists Bio

Fatima Tajah Olson was born and raised in Malawi (Southern Eastern Africa) and moved to Namibia when she was fourteen years old where she attended Windhoek International School. She left the country when she was seventeen and moved to Victoria, BC and finishing high school at Victoria High School. After Victoria High School, Olson attended Pacific Design Academy where she studied Fashion Design, receiving a Fashion Design Diploma. She moved to Vancouver in 2005 and studied at Emily Carr University, receiving a Bachelor in Fine Arts. After graduating, Olson returned to South Africa and back to Malawi where she spent time volunteering with AIDS orphans at a clinic, various orphanages, and a school in a village. Back in Vancouver, Olson teaches African Street Dance to children and adults. In 2011 she was featured on Canada’s Got Talent, and in 2014 she choreographed an African dance for the Kindness Rocks Concert that involved 60 high school students. Olson continues to extend her volunteer efforts at events that help the homeless, assisting in music therapy sessions at a senior home, and African event programs.

The Gallery at Queen’s Park – Call for Artists 2018

The Arts Council of New Westminster (ACNW) is now inviting artists to submit applications for solo or duo exhibitions during the 2018 calendar year.

The ACNW operates a picturesque gallery in Queen’s Park known as The Gallery at Queen’s Park, which features a wide range of visual arts by local and emerging artists in exhibitions which change monthly. If you are an artist and are interested in being considered for the period from January 2018 to December 2018, your submission must reach the Gallery Exhibition Selection Committee (GESC) before August 31st 2017.

To be considered at the next GESC meeting, please submit the following:

A selection of 8-10 digital images of proposed work you wish to exhibit. Digital images should be jpg format at 150 dpi; each image should be a maximum of 800 x 600 pixels. Image files should be clearly labelled with your Name, the Title of Work, Size in inches and Medium. Example: Artist-Title-Size-Medium.jpg
Contact information (mailing address, phone number, email, website).
An Artist Statement giving your aims and objectives as an artist in relation to your work.
A Curriculum Vitae (3 pages max.) to establish a better understanding of your background and experience.
A written proposal for public programming to be produced and hosted by the artist at the Gallery. The public programming event must take place during regular posted open hours, on either a Saturday or Sunday, during the exhibit. Proposed public programming may be events such as an artist talk, performance art, theoretical or technical seminar, live drawing/painting, social practice etc.

Please include all written material as PDF files and submit via email to gallery@acnw.ca with “Exhibition Submission – The Gallery at Queen’s Park” in the subject line. Please ensure that attachments total less than 5MB.

Deadlines for submission is August 31, 2017. Applications will not be rolled over. To be considered for an application for the following year, please re-apply.

For more information on how to apply for an exhibition, please refer to the Exhibition Application package.
Any other inquires can be made by phone 604-525-3244 or by email: gallery [at] acnw [dot] ca

It’s A Queer Life: Pride Arts Celebration – August 14th at Centennial Lodge

The Arts Council of New Westminster
and
Youth for a Change
presents:

It’s a Queer Life: Pride Arts Celebration
a part of New West Pride week

August 14, 2017
Centennial Lodge
6-9pm

Join us for an art exhibition featuring LGBTQ+ artists and readings beginning at 8pm.

Dorothy Doherty & Frank Turco – “Ashes & Paint: Abstraction in Contemporary Ceramics and Painting” – August 2–27, 2017

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Ashes & Paint: Abstraction in Contemporary Ceramics and Painting”
by Dorothy Doherty & Frank Turco

Exhibition Dates: August 2–27, 2017.
Opening Reception: Wednesday, August 2, 6-8pm

Free Admission.
The artist will be in attendance on the weekends.

Exhibition Statement

Both Dorothy Doherty and Frank Turco use intuition as a guiding force in their artistic practices. The physical formation of ephemeral inclinations places a degree of trust not just within the artists’ own abilities, but within their materials. This sense of openness towards their processes allows the inherent qualities of the materials to dictate certain developments in their work. These decisions stem from an honouring of materials that focuses on the integrity of form and surface. Doherty’s paintings explore the act of revealing the imperceptible layers in the creative process, whereas Turco’s ceramics are determined by the unique influence of the ash within the firing process of a wood-fired kiln. In allowing varying degrees of entropy and control to create their works, Doherty and Turco invite a possibility of results not otherwise attainable or predictable. The abstraction attained through these methods acts as a connecting force, bonding the apparent dichotomy between ceramics and painting.

Artists Bio

Dorothy Doherty received her art education from Vancouver School of Art (currently Emily Carr University of Art & Design) and Capilano University. She holds an MA in History in Art (University of Victoria) and a PDP (Simon Fraser University). She is a life-long resident of British Columbia, Canada, spending the majority of her life in and around Vancouver, BC.

Frank Turco has continued his practice in ceramics for over twenty years. He served on the board of the Potters’ Guild of BC and the North West Ceramic Foundation, was of the Burnaby Potters’ Guild for several years, and currently is a member of the Fraser Valley Potters’ Guild. Influenced by movements in Japanese and English ceramics, and specializing in wood firing, Turco produces his work out of his own wood-fired kiln on Vancouver Island.

Canada Day Pick-a-Box Silent Auction RESULTS!

A big THANK YOU to everyone that celebrated Canada Day in Queen’s Park on July 1, 2017. We were thrilled to host the Pick-a-Box Silent Auction during the festivities to raise funds for “Arts in Queen’s Park” Grant program.

Together we raised over $700 with the proceeds going to ACNW programming in Queen’s Park.

We couldn’t have done this event without the help of our amazing community and the local businesses who generously donated to our silent auction. We would like to thank the following amazing folks:

Royal City Musical Theatre
Steel & Oak
Mila & Paige
Royal City Cheer and Parkour
30 Minute Hit
Laughter Zone 101
The Stage New West
Royal City Centre
Patterson Brands
Massey Theatre

LumberJax
Tojo Sticks and Bags
Strong n’ Free
New West Hipster
Vagabond Players
New West Craft
100 Braid Street Studios
Dee Beatie
Allison Baird
Roger and Catherine Lee

Free Arts Workshop at The Gallery at Queen’s Park – June 24, 2017

For more information, click here

Music By The River set to return to Pier Park in July

MEDIA RELEASE:
June 15, 2017

New Westminster, BC – The Arts Council of New Westminster is thrilled to be partnering with Alex Jopson (of City to Suburb Real Estate Group) and the City of New Westminster to bring back the Music By The River concert series and arts festival to the award-winning Westminster Pier Park on Thursday nights on July 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2017 from 5-8pm.

This all-ages free experience will be the first of it’s kind with a new additional announcement for this year’s festivities. The Arts Council of New Westminster and City to Suburb Real Estate Group are thrilled to fill Westminster Pier Park with a wide variety of the arts, including live musical performance, two DJ stages, busking performances, artisan vendors, live painting, ribbon dancing, and more. Spend sunny summer evenings at Pier Park enjoying the arts in a scenic setting next to the Fraser River.

NEW this year: The Arts Council of New Westminster is partnering with the City of New Westminster and will be serving Steel and Oak Brewing Co along with Pacific Breeze wine at the Eats at the Pier concession. The entire park will be one massive site-licensed area allowing you to take your drink anywhere within the park. Bring your picnic dinner down to Pier Park and enjoy a drink as you listen to the tunes from Royal City Sound DJ program. Enjoy every aspect of this beautiful park, whether it be the beach volleyball courts, hammocks, grass fields, basketball courts, or breathe taking views of the Fraser River. Be sure to take your drink all the way down to take a selfie with Wow Westminster public art, New Westminster’s Giant W. Make sure to plan your trip to the event, as the park is within a short walk from Columbia and New Westminster Skytrain Stations.

SPECIAL FEATURE: On July 13, the Arts Council of New Westminster is proud to present a live performance by Vancouver electronic band I M U R. I M U R (I am you are), is a live electronic act with a hybrid sound influenced by 90’s hip-hop/r&b, electronic, experimental, and soul. The band consists of producer Mikey J Blige on live beat composition and electric guitar, singer-songwriter Jenny Lea on keys, vocals, and looping, and producer/multi-instrumentalist Amine Bouzaher on electric violin and bass. Their debut EP “Slow Dive” (released Aug. 2015), garnered much acclaim from the Vancouver underground scene, and recently landed them #5 in Spotify’s Global Viral Top 50 charts.

Background

With the Arts Council of New Westminster’s commitment to promoting the arts within the community, Music By The River captures the art of live performance for community pleasure while offering local musicians the opportunity to display their talent. Music By The River is made possible by support from the City of New Westminster, Government of Canada, City to Suburb Real Estate Group, Creative BC and the BC Arts Council.

About the Arts Council of New Westminster

Founded in 1967, The Arts Council of New Westminster is a community arts organization built by individuals and member groups who share an interest in visual, performing and literary arts. The Arts Council’s role in the community is to advocate for the arts and foster support for those engaging in artistic and cultural endeavors. Celebrating our 50^th anniversary, the ACNW continues to bring innovative new programming to New Westminster

About City to Suburb Real Estate Group

Alex Jopson, Deri Jopson & Jerrit Bates make up the City to Suburb Real Estate Group with Sutton Group West Coast Realty. Alex Jopson is a proud resident of New Westminster, and believes as a licensed REALTOR® part of his job is to showcase the cities his team work in. With over 40 years combined award winning years of experience, the City to Suburb Real Estate Group team members are thrilled to partner with The Arts Council of New Westminster showcase the local arts, along with this one of a kind community of New West and the beautiful Pier Park.

CONTACT:
Will Clements, Music Program Coordinator
Arts Council of New Westminster
music@acnw.ca
604-525-3244

OTHER HELPFUL TOOLS:

URLs to link to:
Event web page: http://acnw.ca/music-by-the-river/
FB event: https://www.facebook.com/events/309046702839857
Volunteer application form: http://acnw.ca/volunteer/

Hashtags to use: #MBTR2017 #ArtsNW #citytosuburb #givrontheriver

Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram – we are @ArtsCouncilNW @musicbytheriver @citytosuburb

New West Photography Club – “This City, Our Way: New West through the Lens” July 1–July 30, 2017

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“This City, Our Way: New West through the Lens”
by New West Photography Club

Exhibition Dates: July 1–July 30, 2017.
Opening Reception: Wednesday, July 5, 6-8pm

Free Admission.
The artist will be in attendance on the weekends.

Exhibition Statement

The “Royal City” has it all: new and old, modern innovation and rich historical heritage—endless inspiration for those who strive to capture their surroundings with camera in hand. But no two photographers see the aspects of a place in exactly the same way; subjects of interest and vantage points vary and are always strongly influenced by the individual perception and personality of each image maker.

The New Westminster Photography Club artists are pleased to share their various views of this city in its myriad guises—glimpses of both the iconic and lesser known places we call home—and are pleased to present This City, Our Way: New West through the Lens.

Artist Bio

The New Westminster Photography Club was formed in 1948, when four or five camera-buffs got together to exchange information and discuss their work. Within a year, this small group had grown to become the New Westminster Colour Photography Club, with more than a dozen members. Though its numbers have waxed and waned, the core purpose of the club has remained steadfast: to foster the art form and appreciation of photography.

The NWPC is proud of its continuous, active role in the city of New Westminster, and its unwavering support of all aspects of photographic artistry for over 65 years. The NWPC is a member of CAPA (Canadian Association for Photographic Art), and participates annually in a number of print and digital competitions held throughout the Lower Mainland.

Either as a collective and/or as individual artists, the New Westminster Photography Club has exhibited work at a number of venues, including:

Anvil Centre
New Westminster Public Library (Solo & Group Exhibits)
‘Art in the Atrium’ Gallery at the QCC Hub
Fraser River Discovery Centre
Kay Meek Centre in West Vancouver
CityScape Community Art Space in North Vancouver

NWPC members have also had original photographic work published in the Georgia Straight, 24 Hrs, the Vancouver Sun and Canadian Camera, as well as other magazines, trade journals and periodicals.

More information can be found at: www.nwphoto.org

CALL FOR ARTISTS: New West Cultural Crawl 2017

Barbara Webb – “Nature of Layers” – May 31–June 25, 2017

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Nature Of Layers”
by New Westminster artist Barbara Webb

Exhibition Dates: May 31–June 25, 2017.
Opening Reception: Wednesday, May 31, 6-8pm

Free Admission.
The artist will be in attendance on the weekends.

Exhibition Statement

The Gallery at Queen’s Park is pleased to present New Westminster artist Barbara Webb. Barbara Webb’s paintings are aesthetic translations of her environment. Exploring her emotional connections of daily life through abstract impressions of her surroundings, Webb focuses on the colours, shapes, textures, and concepts of the natural and man-made forms of Coastal British Columbia. Her empirical perspective is employed through her use of photography to document the mountains, skies, and waters of the west coast to provide references to produce her abstract renderings. Through her work, Webb aims to engage the viewers own evolving relationship to the local landscape.

Artist Bio

Barbara Webb is a New Westminster artist working mainly in acrylic and mixed media. Her passion in art began with photography; she continues to find this provides inspiration for her artwork. Many of her works are abstract in design, merging texture, shape and colour to represent landscapes, nature or man-made structure. She has a Certificate in Fine Art Techniques from the Emily Carr University, Vancouver, BC.

http://www.artistbarbwebb.com

May 2017- Barbara Webb, The Nature of Layers

Starlight Casino donation to The Arts Council of New Westminster

The Arts Council of New Westminster is thrilled to announce a $1,289.83 donation from the GatewayGIVES program from the Starlight Casino of Gateway Casinos and Entertainment. We are overwhelmed by the donation and we cannot thank them enough for their generosity. Through this donation, the Starlight Casino will be supporting the New West Cultural Crawl later this summer.

ACNW Executive Director, Stephen O’Shea (centre) is presented a donation by Starlight Casino General Manager, Lisa Mak (left), and Gateway Casinos Director of Public Relations, Tanya Gabara (right).

Queen’s Park Preschool – “Mother Earth. Father Sky” – May 27-28, 2017

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Mother Earth. Father Sky”
by The Queen’s Park Preschool

Exhibition Dates: May 27–28, 2017.

Free Admission.

Exhibition Statement

The Gallery at Queen’s Park is pleased to present a pop-up exhibition by the Queen’s Park Preschool. This group exhibition will display artwork by the current students of QPPS, highlighting our city’s future artists and makers. Queen’s Park Preschool was established in 1965, and has since offered a quality and nurturing preschool program for three and four year old children, to families living in New Westminster and its surrounding communities. This exhibition is an example of a place where children and their parents are encouraged to learn together through play, in a caring environment that fosters a sense of community.

http://qpps.ca

Call for Participants: Speak-in Speak-out!

The City of New Westminster, in partnership with the Arts Council of New Westminster, and with funding provided by the Canada 150 Fund and a Shaw Canada 150 Initiative grant, has a fantastic opportunity for Aboriginal and Newcomer youth, aged 13 to 21, to participate in a free 2-day workshop!

Share stories, explore issues that matter to you and find your voice at Speak-In Speak-Out! This free 2-day workshop offers Aboriginal and Newcomer youth a platform to discover transformational writing-based practices. Literary forms such as poetry and spoken word are brought into the contemporary realm, as tools of empowerment to fearlessly explore personal and creative expression. Develop skills in both spoken and written language, learn tools beneficial for public speaking, test your freedoms of expression and boost self-confidence! The workshop culminates in an installation and exhibition at Anvil Centre in New Westminster.

Applicants will participate in a free 2-day workshop with special guests Ahmed “Knowmadic” Ali and Kia Kadiri, Saturday June 17 (10:00-1:00) and Sunday June 18 (2:00-5:00). Workshops will take place at Anvil Centre and the New Westminster Public Library, and will culminate in an installation and exhibition at Anvil Centre in 2017 (optional, dates TBA).

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must identify as First Nations, Newcomer or immigrant youth, aged 13 to 21.
Spaces are limited: Maximum 24 participants. Please encourage your students, participants, and youth to apply today!
Find more Opportunities for Artists on the Arts Services webpage

About the Workshop Leaders:

Ahmed “Knowmadic” Ali
Award winning poet Ahmed Ali also knows as ‘Knowmadic’, is a full-time poet, writer, actor, comedian, speaker and youth worker living in British Columbia. Ahmed was born in Mogadisho in 1984 and immigrated to Italy in 1989, evading the civil war. In 2001 Ahmed became the first Somali to enroll into Comedy Writing and performance at Humber College in Toronto, Ontario. Ahmed attended the Edmonton Poetry Festival (2009), is a founding member of The Breath in Poetry Collective (2009). In 2011, Ahmed became the first Somali spoken word champion at the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word. He is the recipient of the RISE award (2012), held tenure as Artist in Residence at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute in Seattle, Washington (2013), named a “Difference Maker” by the Edmonton Journal (2013) and recognized as Alberta’s Top 30 under 30 for his work with IFSSA, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Mennonite Center for New Comers, and Ghandi Peace Conference and Edmonton Public Schools to name a few. His passion and commitment to poetry earned him an opportunity to represent Canada at the International Literature showcase in Norwich, UK, which is recognized by UNESCO as a city of literature. http://www.ahmedknowmadic.com/about/

Kia Kadiri
Kia is a passionate Hip- Hop artist. This passion for music, rap, and poetry makes her extremely productive as a workshop leader, and engages even those participants who are shy to perform. Kia loves sharing the gift of words! The goals of her workshops are always to help youth build self-confidence, and connect to their cultural identities, using music, rap and poetry. She enjoys helping them express their ideas, communicating struggles that they face, addressing issues in their communities, and most of all having fun while they learn new skills. Kia is warm, welcoming and energetic, which makes her a magnet for adults and children. She demonstrates a good sense of the energy of the participants, and has the ability to shift gears quickly in response to their engagement.

CALL FOR ARTISTS: Buskers Wanted 2017

The Arts Council of New Westminster coordinates busking style performances throughout New Westminster through various programs and events. 2017 will see the return of this program! We are seeking submissions of small musical acts including solos, duos, and full band performances. All genres of music will be considered. Performances will take place Thursdays through Sundays, and will be coordinated by Arts Council staff. A PA system will NOT be provided but electricity is available (Please indicate if you plan to bring your own).

There is no fee to apply for the music program. However, Artists chosen to participate in the music program are required to be members of The Arts Council of New Westminster. Membership fees can be paid in person at The Gallery at Queen’s Park, via the mail, or via Paypal on our website. Individual memberships are $20. Student/Senior memberships are $15.

Participants of the music program will be paid an honorarium for their performance.

To register, please fill out this following form at: http://artscouncilnewwest.org/buskers/
All inquires, email music@acnw.ca

2017 ACNW Community Engagement Survey

The Arts Council of New Westminster invites you to take our community engagement survey. Please let us know of your experiences with the ACNW and how we can improve in the future. Survey can be taken online here.

Debra McKenzie – “Playing With Nature” – May 3–21, 2017

The Arts Council of New Westminster presents:

“Playing With Nature”
by New Westminster artist Debra McKenzie

Exhibition Dates: May 3–21, 2017.
Opening Reception: Wednesday, May 3, 6-8pm

Artist Talk: Saturday, May 13, 3-4pm

Free Admission.
The artist will be in attendance on the weekends.

Artist Statement

The Gallery at Queen’s Park is pleased to present Debra McKenzie. The objects of Debra McKenzie’s solo exhibition, “Playing with Nature”, come from the natural environment in their purest form. McKenzie’s hand is demonstrated in her work through sandblasting, carving, burnishing, waxing, and painting her assemblages. In altering found objects, McKenzie sees herself simply enhancing Mother Nature’s work. Primarily drawing inspiration from empirical sources, McKenzie’s practice is also influenced by her interest in Aboriginal arts and culture through her close work at The Prince George Native Friendship Centre, as well as environmental artists such as Andy Goldsworthy.

Artist Bio

Debra McKenize was born in Vancouver and grew up in North Central B.C. She studied art at the College of New Caledonia and Malaspina University-College. While living in Prince George, McKenzie was an owner of Blue Door Studios, and the studio gallery Artistic Differences. Throughout her career, McKenzie continued her interest in the arts through teaching art to children, teens, and seniors. Her practice primarily consists of mixed media sculptures and two-dimensional drawings and paintings of her explorations of nature, texture, and emotions.

http://www.debramckenzie.com

Live Drawing with Fiona Tang

The Gallery at Queen’s Park is pleased to present a live drawing with Fiona Tang. The drawing sessions will take place during the weekends, starting April 22nd and 23rd, and continue on April 29th and 30th.

The creatures of Fiona Tang’s solo exhibition, “Charcoal Gone Wild”, aim to minimize the distance between humans and animals, highlighting the viewer’s relationship to Charismatic megafauna. Tang engages the viewer physically through use of scale, intense gestural mark makings, and the use of trompe l’oeil. Supported by research, Tang’s representational drawings aim to retain the raw beauty and energy of her subjects, serving as allegorical representations of the artist’s emotional state throughout the process of execution.

For more information, email Gallery Coordinator Sam Newton at gallery@acnw.ca

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