The visual arts took centre stage for the Aurora Visual Arts Association's (AVAA) first ArtVenture.
Hoping to ignite the inner artist in residents, the AVAA held a symposium May 4 and 5, featuring art classes for all ages and stages of creators.
Whether you preferred pottery, painting, or just observing, there was something for everyone.
According to Leonie Poole, chairperson for the event's organizing committee, the group considered hosting ArtVenture late last year.
“We decided shortly after Christmas to apply for a grant through the Alberta Foundation of the Arts. We were awarded $6,000,” she explained, adding they brainstormed ideas and felt that offering workshops instead of hosting an art show was the way to go.
"This way more people learn about doing the art than just looking at it and wondering how it was done,” Poole added.
With roughly 95 registrations, Poole was pleased with the turnout.
“We thought we would have a lot more children or youth, but many people called and many people came to register, but there are so many other activities in the community, which is why our class was small,” she noted.
Poole explained why they decided to include a class for younger artists.
“That’s where it all starts, the children learn and then (carry it on) later on."
Volunteer and AVAA member Janice Dunn agreed.
"When you take kids and instruct them on different techniques and using different mediums, at this age, they're so open to exploring and trying new things, that they go so much further when you start with them young."
It wasn't only about inspiring the younger generation, however.
Dunn stressed the need for everyone to be involved in the visual arts.
"I think it's incredibly important to get the arts out and into the community, because there are so many people that can benefit from either collecting art, looking at art, or participating and creating art," she exclaimed. "Sometimes they don't even realize they have the talent, and they're just amazed by what they can do."
Poole added, “We hope they learn that it’s not so hard to do, and they can grow in this area and learn."
