ANKORS is challenging local artists to put their creative stamina to the test with their 72 hour art slam.
“Each year we try to hold events that will kind of raise support and awareness for our AIDS Walk on September 17,” said Carmen Petrick, West Kootenay-Boundary AIDS walk for life co-ordinator. “Last year, we had a theme song contest in the summer and this year we decided to expand on it and include artists of all genres.”
Last year’s theme song contest received a lot of support and submissions and Petrick said they are hoping for the same this year.
The art slam begins on August 19 when all of the participants are given an inspiration package.
“The package will include a prop and a theme for their art piece. Starting at 6 p.m. they will have 72 hours to complete any kind of art expression that they want to. The only rule is that by 6 p.m. on Monday, August 22 they need to have their piece back to ANKORS,” said Petrick.
The goal of the event is to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in the West Kootenay and to raise money for ANKORS.
“We’re hoping that this will be a kick off for our AIDS walk, but also celebrate all the wonderful artists we have in Nelson,” said Petrick.
A number of artists have already registered to participate in the event and Petrick said there will be a good variety of mediums presented.
She said there will be some well known artists coming in to participate.
“There will be a lot of painting and sculpture but we are trying to get more performance art,” said Petrick.
ANKORS will also be asking the artists who are doing visual art pieces, like paintings and sculptures, if they would be willing to donate their paintings to the silent auction which will be part of the final showcase.
The public is being invited to participate in the showcase at Prestige Lakeside Resort on August 26.
“All the art pieces will be on display, there will be a wine and cheese reception and there will be voting for who winds the competition,” said Petrick.
There will be cash prizes, with $250 for first place, $150 for second place, and $50 for third place.
There is also an entry fee of $20, however, this fee is a donation to ANKORS and is eligible for a charity tax receipt. There is also a scholarship for those who are unable to pay the entry fee.
The art slam has been sponsored by Columbia Basin Trust, Ric’s Lounge and Grill at the Prestige, Nelson Brewing Company and the Hume Hotel.
Contact Carmen or Brahm at ANKORS at 250-505-5506, aids-walk@ankors.bc.ca, or ankors.ca for more information and to register for this exciting event.