Are you an established or emerging artist? Have you spent hours gazing at the many forms of art in the Art Gallery of Alberta? Here are some lesser-known ways your inner artist can be inspired and unleashed.
Edmonton Art Council Workshops:
The Edmonton Arts Council (EAC) is a non-profit organization that supports the city’s arts community. EAC presents workshops throughout the year. Previous workshops included learning how to do grant presentations, information about public art, how to market yourself and more. Upcoming workshops include important information about grants available in 2017.
The Art Walk:
It’s every art lovers dream, whether you paint, sculpt, draw or sketch, or if you just appreciate the beauty of various artistic mediums. Edmonton’s Art Walk is a three-day event that provides you with 4 kilometres of walking distance lined with art of all kinds. More than 450 artists showcase their works, and you can purchase the pieces you like. To participate as an artist, walk the walk, volunteer or learn more, visit the Art Walk’s website.
Musicians Having Fun at the Old Stratchona Farmers Market in Edmonton – Credit Photograhper Mack Male
The Edmonton Art Club:
Established in 1921, the Edmonton Art Club is the oldest continuing art organization in Alberta. The Club holds monthly meetings to critique works, provides exhibitions and informs the public about the value of original art work. Those interested in being a part of the club must make a commitment to attend meetings and go through a formal application process; however, interested artists can attend one meeting as a guest and can see the rules of membership online to determine if the club is a good fit for them.
Makerspaces:
The Edmonton Public Library and the Spruce Grove Public Library are just two of the many locations around Edmonton that host makerspaces. Depending on the type of art you are into, you’ll find studio space, drop in programs and like minds for traditional art, tech, crafts, writing and more. Type Edmonton makerspaces into Google and you’ll be richly rewarded with a community – and work space – to either try something new, or to indulge in your art with a great group of people.
Pottery for Sale at the Old Strathcona Farmer’s Market in Edmonton – Credit OSFM Photostream
Farmers Markets:
They aren’t just for fresh fruit and vegetables, you know! Farmer’s Markets also have stalls of local artisans, crafters and writers. It’s a great place to pick up a book by a local author or a painting that is perfect for your living room’s wall. Also, if you are looking for a venue to start selling your own art, check out your local farmer’s market.
Non-Chain, Local Coffee Shops:
What does a coffee shop have to do with art? Well, it is thought by some that the introduction of coffee to European society changed their way of life. Suddenly people had places to gather (that were not bars) and had an alertness after hours of agricultural toil. These newly alert people had lively discussions about art, religion, politics and new ideas. A whole new cultural norm was born! Whether or not this is true, there is no denying the productive powers of a hot drink and a good talk with another artist/writer friend. As an added bonus, lots of local coffee shops accept, display and sell work from local artists. Is there anything better than a winter afternoon in a coffee shop, a latte in hand, talking art with your friends under the gaze of local paintings?
Edmonton has a thriving art scene for new, established and emerging artists. If you fit into any of these categories, of if you just like to appreciate the art of others, keep that inner artist creative and inspired by working with or visiting these locations.
