Attracting artists

Joy Laking’s work being featured tonight in Parrsboro

The artist-in-residence program in Parrsboro is off to a great start and the work of the first artist can be seen tonight.

Joy Laking’s residency began Aug. 13 and she’s been up early every day, finding inspiration in spectacular spots along the Parrsboro Shore.

Her work will be on display tonight at the former Sweet Brier building, 177 Main St., Parrsboro at 7 p.m. and she will be there to chat with visitors.

The next artist to take up residency will be Kimmer T., from Hubbards.

After a career as a firefighter, Kim has made the transition to full-time artist. Kim arrives Aug. 27 and will be in Parrsboro until Sept. 10.

Sharon Cave, from Halifax, will be the artist-in-residence from Sept 4 to 17, and will be followed by Carol Morrison, of Oakfield.

“This is one of our most exciting and important new programs,” said Michael Fuller, chair of Parrsboro Creative. “As we build a new cultural economy, our ability to attract artists to come and work in Parrsboro, and to re-locate here, is crucial. The artist-in-residence program, as well as providing support to our Atlantic artists, is also a great way for artists to get to know the community of Parrsboro in a more in-depth way, and we think this just might be a deciding factor for an artist, who is looking for a creative environment, to take that leap of faith and consider setting up a studio here.”

Each artist is given accommodation, studio space and a weekly honorarium, and has the opportunity to show their work at the end of their residency.

Exhibition dates and times will be posted on the Parrsboro Creative website at www.parrsborocreative.com.

“We want to provide the best atmosphere possible for the artists to explore their technique and to take their work to the next level,” said Parrsboro Creative executive director Robert More. “It’s another factor in establishing Parrsboro as the “go-to place” for both artistic and outdoor adventures.”

Plans are for the artist-inresidence program to be held each year. The call for artists for 2018 will be sent out in November. For more information artists are encouraged to contact Robert More at 902-728-2007 or ed@parrsborocreative.com

“We want to provide the best atmosphere possible for the artists to explore their technique and to take their work to the next level … It’s another factor in establishing Parrsboro as the ‘go-to place’ for both artistic and outdoor adventures.”

Parrsboro Creative executive director Robert More.