A personal look at poverty through art will be explored in Nelson this weekend,
The social issue will be front and centre at the Capitol Theatre on Saturday, December 16th, along with powerful artistic responses to community’s stories by talented local artists, including Amy Bohigian, Amber Santos, Lynn Dragone, and Keira Zaslove.
The event, organized by Nelson at its Best, and hosted by Anna Purcell, is free and takes an open-house format, with artists’ presentations starting at 7 p.m. sharp.
“Doors open at 6 p.m. but you’re really not going to want to miss Lynn Dragone’s movement piece, which only lasts about ten minutes and will begin at 7 p.m.,” Purcell said.
“The event is an opportunity to explore the vulnerability, and celebrate the resilience, of our fellow Nelsonites.” Purcell continued, “Often when we think of poverty we think of it as something that only happens on our streets and in our alleys, or in other parts of the world. The truth is that many of our friends and neighbours also really struggle to keep their heads above water in ways that may not be known to us. This project is trying to capture that breadth of experience in Nelson. And to look at what helps.”
Through twelve comment boxes placed throughout town, and an online survey, residents were invited to anonymously share their experiences with poverty, however they chose to define the term, and to relay what has helped them when they’ve felt most trapped by their circumstances. 126 people responded.
These responses were given to the project’s artists to use as inspiration for a piece of artwork in whatever medium the artist chose. The community responses, along with the works of art, will be displayed together at the Capitol Theatre Saturday evening.
“There will also be a table sponsored by the Kootenay Art Therapy Institute where the public can express themselves on these topics if that appeals to them,” said Purcell, “Seeing the human condition mirrored through creative expression can be so rich and rewarding.
“Why not take a break from the hubbub of the season and pop in?”
The event is free, and takes place 6 to 8 p.m. at The Capitol Theatre, Saturday December 16th.
Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/ 134135830605423/
Eventbrite page (no tickets or reservations necessary): https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/art-and-poverty-project-150-voices-tickets-41198470735
This project is made possible by the Government of Canada, Canada 150, the Osprey Foundation, and Community Foundations of Canada.