art gala

Aryn Effert Returns to Art World Expo Edmonton

by Monika Blichar

One of the best things about Art World Expo is creating relationships with the artists who participate. Each year, we have the great pleasure of working with and helping represent hundreds of vendors via our four (currently!) productions in three different cities. As an organizer, this has been the best part. I feel like each year, returning vendors offer something new to the show, they add a level of experience and expertise and they also up their game each year. It’s an interesting process to watch artists evolve and when I met Aryn last year via the Edmonton show, I was so excited I used her art on our flyer for our first annual event. I caught up with her to see what she’s been up to and what she will be bringing this year!

Aryn’s art work at the top of the flyer for our event in 2018.

You were part of the show in Edmonton and Vancouver in 2018. What have be you been up to creatively since last year?

More photography, playing more with chromatography in my works & discovering the beauty of new inks!

What inspires you as an artist?

Architecture, light and dogs – the solid rigidity of architecture combined with the curves of Art Deco and the loss of line control caused by my techniques are so much fun to explore!

If you could do anything with your art, what would that be?

Share my joy of the combination of science & art.

Will you have any show specials at Art World Expo Edmonton on April 12 at the Muttart this year?

Some photo prints will be available for sale & I’ll be bringing some of my older pieces at a discounted price! Including the fishes from last year!

What would you tell an aspiring artist about showing and selling art in today’s market?

Network, network, network! There isn’t a really great central focal point for us newbies to get to know each other; volunteer and visit shows to try to meet the right people to get your name out there!

About Aryn

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Born in Red Deer, trained at ACAD in Calgary and living in Edmonton; an Alberta girl through-and-through. Currently working as Project Coordinator for a small Construction
Management Company.

A dreamer, a geek, a painter, and a drafter; a dabbler in photography. A lover of stairs,
sunsets, and sunrises; not only for their ability to paint the sky, but for the promise of
change – whether it’s moving from one level to the next or transitioning to or from the
magical night. The works are an attempt to capture the feeling of the moment of its
conception, to revisit something often overlooked.

In 2018 had pieces displayed and sold at the Nina Gallery on 118 Avenue, Art World Expo Edmonton and Vancouver, 2017 at RAW Artists showing at the Warehouse and in 2012 self-promoted show at Blue Café. Graduated as an Architectural Technician in 2017, and in 2004/5 spent a year learning to expand in Calgary at the Alberta College of Art and
Design, learning plenty from experienced artists and inexperienced alike.

Follow Aryn: FACEBOOK OR INSTAGRAM

Be sure to catch her at the show on April 12, 2019!

Knitter Kritter at Art World Expo Edmonton

by Monika Blichar

I’ve always been interested in knitting. There’s something really special about; it brings back memories of childhood and adds a really warm touch whenever you get a pair of knitted gloves or a tuque. Today, I caught up with Kelsey Koon from The Knitter Kritter in Edmonton and chatted about her work, her inspiration and her process.

What is The Knitter Kritter?

The Knitter Kritter is kind of my business persona; I chose the name so the shop’s initials would match my own: KK. I like to think of it as the type of boutique storefront where you could find something really special and unique, knowing for sure that it was made by the person you’re buying it from. Everything I sell is handmade by me, and it is all limited-edition and one-of-a-kind! I try to rotate in a few new designs or products every few months or so, so there will always be something new and interesting on offer. I specialize in high-quality knitted accessories and embroidery art, though I am always experimenting with new techniques, new products, and new designs. I also try to use or reuse as much of my materials as possible: many of my items are made with remnants and remainders, since I just can’t bring myself to waste anything. Coming up with the perfect project for my little bits and pieces is kind of like a fun puzzle for me. I really take my tagline, “fine handmade gifts”, to heart!

What is it about creating that inspires you?

I am really inspired by seeing the item progress. I always have a picture in my head of what it will look like when it is finished, but seeing it take shape is always a magical experience. Sometimes my craft surprises me! It’s always very fulfilling to see the finished object at the end of the process, regardless of how well it matches up to that pre-imagined picture. I think anyone who has made something in their life will relate to the little warm-fuzzy feeling of accomplishment in the finished project, and no matter how many items I make, I still get that little thrill from seeing it come to life and being involved in that process.

What are your favourite things to make?

My favourite items would have to be my one-of-a-kind lacework knitted scarves. I really get a kick out of matching up the colorways of the hand-painted yarns to the intricate lace patterns I use, and seeing the color patterning complement the pattern. Blocking the lace (setting the pattern by dampening the finished product and allowing it to dry flat) is always the best part, because up until that point, it can be a little hard to get a full sense of how the finished piece will look. After blocking, though, you can really see the lacework open up and the yarn bloom and it makes the whole piece really pop!

As far as a business owner of a crafts company, what are your goals for your brand this year?

I’d really like to find some new selling venues (either in-person or online) to market my products in. It always makes me so happy to have one of my items go home with someone who loves it, and I would like to find opportunities for all of my products to connect with people who love them! I’ve also been enjoying making some more connections on social media, so I would like to continue to expand in that arena as well. Being able to spend more time on creating is also an aspiration of mine, so one goal is to set aside time to spend on crafting new, unique handmade products.

Will you have any show specials at this year’s Art World Expo in Edmonton?

I’m planning on bringing at least one surprise show-stopper for the Expo! This will be a brand new handmade product that I haven’t yet offered for sale on the shop, so the attendees at the Art World Expo will get first crack at it!

What would you tell an aspiring crafts person about starting a handmade business?

I think my biggest piece of advice would be to enjoy your process. When I started out, I was very worried about the end result of my crafting, i.e., whether or not the item would sell. But as things went on, I learned that the process of creating is really the most important thing. It’s nice if you are able to share your work with someone who appreciates it, but ultimately, your art and your process is a reflection of you, and it’s important to love that as well. Enjoy seeing your work take shape as you make it!

Links:

Etsy Store: http://www.etsy.com/shop/theknitterkritter

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theknitterkritter

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theknitterkritter

Interview with Caitey Gilchrist Creative

by Monika Blichar

As an artist, it can be hard to think about many areas of business. Lots of creatives are very talented in the actual making of art work, but many fall short in areas of marketing, business and branding. For some reason, it is the last thing that artists want to think about; their top priority as making art.

In reality, branding is one of the most important areas of business as this is what the public recognizes when they think of a company. Good branding means that people can spot your company just by looking at the logo-a symbol unique to that business. Bad branding leaves the consumer confused about what the company and often causes a lack of confidence in a business. Today, I caught up with Caitey Gilchrist Creative to ask her about her branding business as she will be at our event this year!

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1-What is Caitey Gilchrist Creative?

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Caitey Gilchrist Creative helps entrepreneurs live their passion and connect with their audience through their core message. Through branding, graphic design and online business resources, I help individuals translate who they are into a visual identity that speaks to their audience.

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2-When did you know you wanted to start your own business?

I’ve always had the entrepreneurial drive, and I started offering my services in 2011.

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3-What is your favourite part about helping creative people with their brands?

Knowing that I’m helping someone propel their practice forward is my favourite thing about what I do. I love translating their vision into something beautiful that serves a very practical purpose.

4-What will you be offering at Art World Expo? Any special promotions or products exclusively for AWE guests?

Yes! Until May 31, 2018, Art World Expo guests can receive 15% off any branding design package.

5-Where would you like to see your business in 5 years’ time?

This is an exciting question! Branding is just one way that I’m currently helping creatives and entrepreneurs pursue their passions. The big focus for me is on providing education and tools for people who are ready to forge their own path. Over the next five years, I’ll be focusing on spreading these resources as far as possible through public speaking, training and online courses.

6-Just for fun: What is your all-time favourite thing to do when you have free time?

I love standing in nature and experiencing the moment.

Caitey Gilchrist is a brand consultant, design geek, and creative for life. Through her company, Caitey Gilchrist Creative, she helps entrepreneurs connect to their audience through branding and visual communication. Caitey is set on creating new opportunities for small business brands through education, collaboration, and support. She works on this vision daily through her one-on-one services, branding courses, and through her involvement in local business groups in surrounding communities. To learn more about Caitey, visit www.caiteygilchrist.com To attend the 8th annual Art World Expo, order your tickets via this link! caitey2

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Monika Blichar is an Entrepreneur and Artist. She is owner of Monika’s Art Boutique-Studio & Gallery in North Vancouver and producer of Art World Expo and Painting Dreams International Art Tours. She is always pushing boundaries as an artist and creative entrepreneur. Her love of the arts has been a part of her life since childhood.

Matcha Matcha-Read All About It!

by Monika Blichar

I always love to incorporate new and interesting products and businesses into Art World Expo. With each year’s theme, there’s ample opportunity to reach out to community partners who are unique and different but who can add an element of interest to our show. This year, I am pleased to have Whisk Matcha at our event not only because the owner Kimmy is so kind and sweet, but also because her company offers a product that is both good for health and committed to organic matcha production. I caught up with her to learn more about her company today! Enjoy!

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1-When did you start Whisk Matcha?
Officially August 2016

2-What is Matcha?
Matcha is shade-grown, finely ground Japanese green tea.

3-What are the health benefits of drinking Matcha?
Matcha is possibly THE healthiest super food one can find.

Because of its meticulous production process, you’re consuming the entire tea leaves which contain full nutrients such as high concentration of green tea antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and fiber. Besides, by drinking Matcha you can also ingest oil soluble constituents (Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Beta-carotene, etc.), which are not extracted into water when brewed. Brewing tea in the traditional way is kind of like eating spinach by boiling it in a pot but throwing out the vegetable and just drinking spinach water, you end up chucking 80% of the nutritional value and benefits into the compost bin.

Matcha has an amino acid called L-Theanine; L-Theanine can improve mental focus and clarity in a slow-released way. It won’t give you the jittery feeling that coffee does to your body. Matcha tea leaves need to be covered from direct sunlight for 20 – 30 days before harvest. This shading process boosts the plants’ chlorophyll level; chlorophyll is a natural detoxifier that will cleanse the heavy metal and daily pollution out of your body. You’ll feel like a whole new you with every cup of good matcha.

One key antioxidant that matcha is loaded with is called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) Catechin. EGCG is proven for its benefits of treating cancers, and can also improve your immune system, stabilize blood sugar levels, promote fat burning, and boost metabolism.

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4-How is Matcha sourced? Are there any eco-friendly initiatives around harvesting matcha tea that help the environment?

Matcha is not created equally. Our matcha is directly from organic family tea farms in Kyoto Japan. Organic farming means a lot to me and our brand, because it’s good for people, eco system and our soil. Matcha plants cannot survive through the shading process (due to very limited energy from the sun) without an enriched soil, and we’re committed in sourcing matcha grown from NATRUALLY enriched soil, not by industrial strength fertilizers. Our tea farms/owners take incredibly good care and practices of the tea plants.

5-Will you have any show specials on products, matcha tea parties, or services exclusive to Art World Expo on May 11?
Yes we will offer 10 – 15% discount on select products at Art World Expo.

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6-Where do you see your business in 5 years time?
I’m hoping to open a matcha-focused tea tasting room in Vancouver.

7-Just for fun: If you could time travel, where would you go?
I’d like to go back to the 12th – 16th century in China. Love the culture, poetry and apparels.

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To learn more about Whisk Matcha, visit https://www.facebook.com/whiskmatcha https://www.instagram.com/whiskmatchayvr/ https://twitter.com/matchawhisker Be sure to get your ticket to the 8th Annual Art World Expo at Science World. Our theme this year is Eco-Sustainability so be sure to dress in an Eco-Sustainable ensemble, create your own statement piece from plastic bags or make your voice heard for our environment. Tickets are available in limited quantities here.

Interview with Humanitarian Artist Judy Anne D. Galdones

by Monika Blichar

Social media is awesome. It is a great tool these days to help make communication possible between people and business owners. I met Judy on Instagram and from the moment we connected online, I could sense that she is a serious artist working hard towards her goals as a professional. She was enthusiastic, professional and so eager to put her work out into various shows. When I finally met her at the Art World Expo Speaker Series in January, I was delighted to meet a bubbly, personable and committed individual. I was impressed with her desire to show and sell her work-not all artists are as motivated to be an artist and do the marketing and business side at the same time. It was only until after reading her interview answers below that I understand why she is motivated, driven and passionate about her work. Great work Judy! You are an inspiration!

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1-When did you start making art?

For as long as I can remember, I was always creating some form of art but mainly drawing. It wasn’t until high school that I started painting. I painted every now and then for about five years and never did I go to any formal schooling as this was my hobby and didn’t want any form of structure in it. Then, for almost a decade, art took the backseat as I went into college and entered a busy career in nursing. It wasn’t until four years ago, in 2014 that I got re-acquainted with it again and at the end of that year when I lost my grandma to cancer followed by a most difficult breakup, art became my world. It served as my outlet – where I found my voice, my cry. Little did I know that my deepest heartaches would unveil the most soulful part of me. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with painting and want to share this passion with all who cares to view the sight.

2-What inspires you as an artist?

Much of my inspiration comes from living life itself. Capturing life’s beauty from the most intimate thoughts and emotions to the exquisite sites of our Mother Nature is what I want to share with the world through my paintings. Through my sales, I wish not only to bring life to a room but also to help brighten the future of an adolescent in a third world country. 10% of all my proceeds goes towards a scholarship every year for a senior student in the Philippines’ Sarrat National High School who wants to further their education in order to better their lives.

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3-Will you have special promotions or exclusive offers for Art World Expo Edmonton event attendees at the Muttuart Conservatory on March 16?

Yes, I will be offering a 15% promotional discount on all my paintings – discount will be applied at checkout.

4-Where would you like to see your art business in 5 year’s time?

In five years, I hope to see my art business flourish – for my art to be in more shows and galleries. I would really love to see it prosper so that I can help more kids reach their dreams. I want to be a part of the reason that betters their world.

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5-Just for fun: If you could interview any artist living or deceased, who would it be? What would you ask them?

This is a pretty tough question as I seem to have a difficulty narrowing it to just one artist. But okay, if I had to choose I would want to interview the late Monet. I would ask what it was about lilies that gave him the obsession to paint them over and over again throughout his career. Although it was done repeatedly, each painting was still yet so remarkable and I wonder if there was a deeper reason as to why he choose this subject. Also, given that he struggled with finance and depression, I would ask, if he could relive his life again, is there anything he would change and why.

To learn more about Judy’s art and how to contribute to her fundraising towards a scholarship every year for a senior student in the Philippines’ Sarrat National High School for further education, please visit Judy’s Instagram Account. Our event in Edmonton is SOLD OUT but you can visit Judy at the Art World Expo Vancouver on May 11, 2018 at Telus World of Science. Tickets to this 8th annual installment are available.

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Interview with HumbleTara

by Monika Blichar

As we approach the Edmonton event, I find that the level of anticipation and stress increases for everyone involved in making this event happen! From all the little details to the final layouts and line ups, we are all getting ready for a great night! During the time where everything is busy and we are doing a million things at once, it is always great to remember to be “humble and kind” which brings me to my next artist interview with Tara Clelland, aka “Humble Tara”. I caught up with her and she’ll be telling us about what her brand stands for and some of her inspirations.

1-When did you start making art and when did you know that you wanted to pursue it as a career?

I have been creating whimsical pieces of art for years, privately. I let the world know in the summer 2014. I felt it was too personal to share with anyone. I paint with my heart. It takes a great deal of vulnerability to show the world your soul. I wasn’t ready till 2014.

Making art is a passion for me. If I could do this as a career, I would be on top of the world!!! If I can pay bills and do what I love?? Bonus!!

2-Your art name is “Humble Tara”. What does this name represent to you and your art?

The common theme in my life has been “be humble and kind”. Treat others the way you want to be treated. This world needs kindness and it starts with us. Everyone has a story. Being humble is putting others ahead of yourself.

The intention of my work is to evoke a “reaction”, a “feeling”. The stories I hear from people are truly amazing and inspiring. If I can give that person a “moment”, then I am fulfilled.

3-You mention that you paint a lot for mental health. How has making art helped you? What would you recommend others to start with if they were looking to use art as therapy?

Yes I use art as my therapy. Like a form of meditation. When I paint I only think about painting. I am present in the moment. Sometimes my anxiety is overwhelming, I shut out the world while I paint what is going on in my head.

My recommendation for others to start their art journey is to JUST DO IT. Get a pad of paper (thick paper is better) and a acrylic palette (like paint by number containers) and just let your mind flow to your fingers. Do not judge your thoughts or what you create..let it flow. Getting started can be very inexpensive.
4-What can guests expect to see at your exhibit? Will you have show specials or contests?

I am bringing a variety of pieces to show the diversity in mixed media. Classic cars, animals and a few abstracts.

Yes I most definitely will have show specials!! Stay tuned to find out!

5-Where would you like to see your art business in five years time? Any big goals or dreams you would like to share?

What I would like my art business to be like in 5 years, is to attend/contribute to more exhibitions across Canada. To have a recognizable brand. Also receiving commissions from patrons looking to capture their beloved vehicles in canvas form.

A dream of mine is to do a VERY large canvas for a patron. The options are limitless.

6-If you could be a superhero, which one would you be and why?

If I was to be a superhero I would most likely be Rogue. She is strong and has the amazing ability to absorb people’s memories via touch. For the people who are suffering, I would take away the pain for them. And of course she can fly!!!

To learn more about Tara’s work, visit her website.

Bio:

I am a self taught artist. I have been doing art my entire life, privately, for my mental health. My first public show was the Edmonton Whyte Avenue Artwalk of 2015. My favourite medium is acrylic. Miscellaneous types of paper and adhesives are a few of my “go to” tools to use in my work. Making 3 dimensional objects into 2 dimensional objects is such a rewarding challenge for me. I love animals, automobiles, landscapes and just about anything I can create into a whimsical collage of colour.

Interview with Edmonton Artist Maureen Donovan

by Monika Blichar

There are many artists in Edmonton but what drew me to Maureen was actually her Instagram account. She is active, robust and very engaging on her IG which is something very nice to see. Her work ranges from all sorts of subject matter but it is her eagerness to express herself creatively that is so conveyed in her work. I haven’t met her yet, but I know that from our interactions in the vortex of the online world, we will become great friends I am sure! I caught up to Maureen and here’s what she had to say about watercolour, life and super-powers.

1-Why did you choose watercolour as a medium?

It found me actually. I was so busy in my life that I needed something to bring me back to calm, peace, my center and found advertised in our community paper of Onoway AB Adult Watercolour courses at the high school by artist Dave Ripley. That was it. I took one course and I was hooked.

2-You say that you had spent most of your life doing anything but art. How has art changed your life since discovering your passion for it?

Art enhanced my life! It takes me out of life’s whirlwind of busyness and captivates me. Art keeps me spellbound while creating in the moment. Mixing colours and transforming them into an art work is rewarding. It’s a positive, spiritual experience. It’s fun! It’s JOY!

3-You mention that you have taken inspiration from your travels for your art. Where is your favourite place you have visited and have you painted it?

I have been to so many countries. I have just begun to paint series of paintings from those travels. I Love Africa, our ocean adventures, Asia…there are too many places to mention and so much to paint. It would take more than a life time to paint all my favourite places and wildlife. And we are still traveling. It’s like I paint from my photographs and memories and people get to know who I am through my art.

4-Where would you like to see your art in the next five years?

Because there is so much to learn and so many people to learn from I hope my style becomes recognizable as my own. If in 5 years one person was to say ‘that looks like Maureen’s work’, I would feel like I have achieved this goal.

5-What advice would you give to emerging artists?

Let your self resonate in your creations. Experience the love and joy in expression. Be confident in and trust your uniqueness. Let your passions guide you.

6-For fun. If you had a super power, what would it be?

I would love to be able to give others the ability to see their gifts and talents and the trust to develop them to acheive their dreams.

Words to share: Never be afraid to try new things and take advantage of every opportunity – for you never know – you just might uncover a passion that may change the way you dream, care for yourself and how you discover every moment in life that belongs to you – colour it proudly!

To learn more about Maureen, visit her famous Instagram account and check out her exhibit at the Muttart on March 16, 2018! Get your tickets today, we are running low with only 83 tickets left!

Final Call for our Art World Expo Christmas Fair Vendors!

Are you an artisan or independent rep looking for a holiday event to participate in this year? Look no further and join our exciting Christmas Fair this year!

We have a limited number of tables left for vendors at our Christmas Fair on December 16! Submit your registration today here: https://theartworldexpo.com/exhibitor-information/ Questions? Call Monika Blichar 6049996177

We love to small businesses and Artisans and our Christmas Fair will be no exception to sharing the love for all things unique and local this December!

Thank you to Two of Hearts boutique in Kits for donating $5-$25 gift cards to spend in store! Lots of raffle prizes every 30 minutes!

Preview products, join the convo and connect with participants on our Official Facebook Event Page!

When you attend this COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY EVENT, you’ll find:
-Over 50 vendor tables including art, jewellery, fashion, hand knit goods, make up, skin care, chocolate, baked goods, kids accessories, essential oils, dog accessories, home decor, and health and wellness products and services and much more! Everything you need in one venue to complete your holiday shopping and networking! Ask our vendors about collaborations, participating in your events or if you’re a gallery or boutique owner, come browse to see if you could work with one of our Artisans in 2018!

-Fashion Shows by John Pfaff, Carolyn Bruce Steampunk Jewellery, and West Coast Hatters on models provided by award winning female body builder fitness models from Team Fitness! Yes! Exciting!

-Cheeses Crust Food Truck-Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and Drinks! Really good sandwiches!

-Raffles every 30 minutes-Prizes from local vendors and of course, many of our sponsors from Art World Expo! Tickets sold on site!

-First 100 people through the doors receive a complimentary goody bag! No purchase necessary! Just be one of the first 100 people at 11:00am sharp!

-Face Painting for kids and adults by award winning body painter and visual artist Francoise Boise ($10/person) She’s amazing! Don’t worry, she will do Holiday themed paints too!

-Silent Auction Benefiting Make and Break Arts Foundation-all proceeds support independent Artisans and Arts Programs and Exhibitions in BC. It’s a win win! (Huge line up of awesome stuff to bid on-great for holiday gift ideas and of course-gifts for ourselves!)

-Arts & Crafts Station for Kids-leave them at the craft station and go shop and mingle! We have you covered!

-Finally, when you’re all done, take a photo at our photo booth with visitors from the North Pole! Capture a memory and celebrate Christmas 2017 with us!

Current vendors:

Monika Blichar

Art by Edy

Carolyn Bruce Designs – Steampunk Jewelry**FASHION SHOW**

West Coast Hatters**FASHION SHOW**

John Pfaff Art & Fashion**FASHION SHOW**

Fashion Show models sponsored by Team Fitness-Award Winning Female Body Builders from BC!

LumberJax Custom Wooden Jewelry

Karolyn’s Tupperware

Inner Harmonious Peace

Kathline Essential Oils Accessories

Jennifer Haase, Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant

SPOIL YOURSELF, Cristina De Vellis

Jessica’s Homemade Alfajores-Baked Goods

Fifth Avenue Collection by Pardeep

Younique, Amanda Cherewick

The Sweet Doodle

Whisk Premium Matcha

Copper Paw Designs

Coastal Storm Gallery

Dagmar Doubkova Herbal Life

Bodacious Butterflies

Scentsy Kristi Weaver

SweetLegs Vancouver with Julia

Love Eco Jewels

Spain Gourmet Canada

Radiant Life Hoops & Styles

Petite Hippo

Earth Meets Spirit

Boise Art Works-Face Painting for Kids On Site $10/each

Deanna ArtFORMS

Diamond Movement

Andrea Renée Blackett MONAT

Diva’s Niche

All Day Shine by Julie SeneGence Independent Distributor # 384814

Crafts By Julia

Bryce Musil Azrael’s Forge Gems and Fine Jewelry

Taylore Mcmanne Jewellery

Studio Seventy Three

by Monika Blichar

It is always really exciting for me to have organizations join our events. I always really appreciate when I see a collective join as not only are they usually representing a multitude of artists, they are usually representing a community engagement process that serves those in our backyard. Today, I caught up with the team at Studio Seventy Three and asked them a few questions about their group and what they do in our community!

1-What is Studio Seventy Three?

Studio 73 is a not-for-profit social enterprise with a storefront located in Surrey, supported by Community Living Society. The artists and artisans contribute in all aspects of running this business. We volunteer and engage with the community as much as we can in order to help bridge the gap between all members of society. We make and sell beautiful, hand- crafted, usable and wearable art.

2-How long has the organization been running and what are the main programs offered?

Studio 73 has been at its storefront location for just over two years. We offer space to other struggling local artists to sell their art for a cost that they would most likely not get elsewhere. We also provide flexible fused glass classes to the general public as well as team building classes for businesses or corporations.

3-What is your favorite part of working at the Studio Seventy Three?

Well, of course we all enjoy getting our pay checks! However, we also enjoy the friendships we have made, the opportunity to express ourselves through our art and the relationships we have made in the community.

4-Have you been able to help a memorable artist in the community via your organization or is there a moment that stands out for you while working at Studio Seventy Three?

We have had many memorable moments! A very recent one – being nominated in the category of Arts and Innovation for the Surrey Mayors Art Award – which acknowledged those who have had a positive impact on their community. We were a top finalist for this award and feel truly honored to receive this recognition.

5-Are you currently looking for members or volunteers? How does someone get involved if they would like to be a member?

At present we are not looking for members or volunteers as we are a small shop. In the future though! If anyone is interested in getting involved you can reach us at 778-565-5095or by e-mail at studio73@communitylivingsociety.ca

6-What are some of the goals of Studio Seventy Three in the next 2-3 years?

We see ourselves with a larger storefront and more artists and artisans.

For more information about Studio Seventy Three, please be sure to stop in at their exhibition space at our event and visit them on Facebook.

CALL TO ARTISTS: TORONTO AND VANCOUVER

We are excited to be producing another event in Toronto, our 2nd bi-annual, and our 8th annual event in Vancouver! If you are an artist of any kind, you won’t want to miss your opportunity to become part of our tribe!

We are looking for:

-artisan vendors

-body paint competitors

-food and dessert vendors

-beer and wine partners

-performers: musicians and dancers

-speakers and live demonstrations

-sponsors and advertisers: media wall, official stage sponsors, walking advertisers, swag bag sponsors and silent auction donors

To apply to be a part of our events in 2017 and 2018, please see our online application form. To be a sponsor or advertise with us, please visit this page!