COLUMN: Eye on the Arts – Syrian guitar ensemble set to inspire

The Orontes Guitarists are bringing their incredible story of resilience to Grace Mennonite Church in less than two weeks on Nov. 1, at 7:30 p.m. This Syrian guitar ensemble will perform a diverse repertoire, with influences from Syrian Folklore, Blues, Jazz, Flamenco, Baroque, Classical, and Latin music. Tickets are available at steinbacharts.ca or by calling 204-346-1077, priced at $30 for adults and $15 for students. The concert, starting at 7:30 p.m., is generously sponsored by Oakleaf Promotions.

Support Arts Education: Steinbach Arts Council launches delicious fundraiser

The Steinbach Arts Council is running a fundraiser throughout October to keep arts classes affordable. From Oct. 1-31, community members can purchase Niakwa frozen pizzas, pizza shells, and gift cards, as well as Sobeys gift cards in various denominations. Every purchase contributes to maintaining low class fees, ensuring accessible arts education for all. Visit the SAC office or call 204-346-1077 to participate. Alternatively, direct donations are welcome in-person or online at steinbacharts.ca/donate.

Newly expanded Hall Gallery debuts with nature-inspired exhibit

The Steinbach Arts Council’s Hall Gallery is set to unveil its expanded space with two exhibits. The gallery, located at 304 Second Street, will showcase its enhanced capacity from Oct. 18 to Nov. 15, featuring works by local artists Sharlene Reimer and Rudolf Klassen.

The expansion, made possible through generous support from the Steinbach Community Foundation, allows the gallery to accommodate larger exhibitions and provide a more immersive experience for visitors.

The inaugural exhibit in the newly expanded space will highlight the diverse talents of Reimer and Klassen, presenting works in macramé, fiber art, and travel nature photography. This second seasonal exhibit of the year promises to utilize the gallery’s increased wall space and improved lighting to full effect.

The Steinbach Arts Council would like to thank Good N Natural Health and Food Store for sponsoring the Hall Gallery.

Learn Filipino culture through Christmas Parol-making

Embrace Filipino holiday traditions in a special Parol Workshop led by Angelica San Juan on Nov. 30. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., participants will craft their own traditional Filipino Christmas lanterns, learning about parol history and assembly techniques. The workshop, suitable for all skill levels, is priced at $40 plus membership. Register now at steinbacharts.ca or call 204-346-1077. This workshop is made possible with support from Mark & Bonnie Loewen and Steinbach Hatchery.

Start the holiday with a cookie-decorating class

Professional baker Melissa Voth is bringing the joy of festive baking to the Steinbach Arts Council on Nov. 30. Two separate sessions cater to different age groups: kids aged 7-15 can join from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. for $45, while adults 16 and up have a morning session from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. for $50. To secure your spot in these delightful cookie decorating workshops, visit steinbacharts.ca or call 204-346-1077.

Local arts council offers resin crafting workshop

The Steinbach Arts Council is set to host a hands-on Resin Pour Workshop on Thursday, Dec. 5. The event, scheduled from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., aims to introduce participants to the art of resin pouring. Instructor Arlene Enns will lead the workshop, guiding attendees through the process of creating custom cutting boards. Participants will learn essential techniques including resin mixing, pouring methods, and colour layering.

The workshop is open to individuals aged 16 and above. All necessary materials will be provided, and no prior experience is required. The registration fee is set at $80 per person. To register, go to steinbacharts.ca or call 204-346-1077.