Getting artsy this winter
CBRM ConnectArts program connects public to wide variety of events
SYDNEY — It may be January in the middle of a worldwide pandemic but thanks to at least one municipal program, there will still be plenty to do this winter, at least from an arts and culture standpoint.
“ConnectArts is an allencompassing arts and culture program that is about connecting people to artistic endeavours,” said Joe Costello, the CBRM's co-ordinator of arts, culture and creative events. “It's also about connecting our artistic organization or cultural organizations to the residents of our communities.”
The program has existed for about two years but since last March, it has had to adapt to a whole new set of circumstances, thanks to COVID-19.
“We can't just sit here and let the unknown decide what we do in our community and we know that people need places to go and things to do to keep their minds off of things — they all contribute to our safety and well-being,” said Costello. “That's what we're here for.”
As a result many of the programs have gone online and many are slated to start in the next few days. For a look at what's coming up, go to https://www.facebook.com/ CBRMConnectArts.
While some will take place as in-person events, the numbers allowed have been reduced to follow social distancing guidelines.
“We're really doing small group programming right now,” he said. “These will fill up really quick and that way if they do then we'll try to adjust to make more of these available. Currently we can only do small groups so we can follow provincial guidelines and make sure people are safe in our communities.”
The activities cover a wide swath.
On Friday, residents can discover the world of CNC routing. The class will be conducted by Nova Scotia Power Makerspace and open to a limited number of preregistered people and a Playlist Live session with singersongwriter Justin Vallis will take place on Facebook Live on Sunday at 1 p.m.
On Tuesday, Jan. 12 and again on Tuesday, Jan. 26, there will be sessions of the Music Social Club at the Old Sydney Society Building at 173 Charlotte St., Sydney.
A paint session will be held on Zoom on Thursday, Jan. 14 at 1 p.m. The Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design will host a session on how to make a pottery mug on Saturday, Jan. 16 at 1 p.m. A game night will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 19 at 6 p.m. at the Old Sydney Society Building and a movie night will be held at the same location on Thursday, Jan. 28 at 6 p.m.
Registration to all events is required. Some do require a deposit but it will be refunded if you show up to the event.
“But if a deposit is a barrier to participation, they can contact me here or give us a call and I have a different registration tool to get them in without the deposit,” said Costello. “We want to make sure everybody can access all of these programs.”
Even though the programs can only accommodate limited numbers of people, knowing what's in demand and what programs people are looking for will be considered for future schedules.
“It's about connecting our artistic organization or cultural organizations to the residents of our communities. Our intention through our social media for ConnectArts is to make not only our programs available but also to let people know what's happening in terms of arts and culture within our communities so people can experience it on their own terms.”