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Art Walk draws talent, praise

Downtown Stettler became an outdoor art gallery as several artists showcased their work in the fifth annual Art Walk last Saturday.
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The Red Hatters were part of the colour of the annual Stettler Art Walk on Saturday. Castor artist Pat Lang (left) describes her work to Heartland Belles members Joanne Vallet

Downtown Stettler became an outdoor art gallery as several artists showcased their work in the fifth annual Art Walk last Saturday.

It was held in conjunction with the 22nd annual Heartland Quilters Guild quilt show last weekend.

“We probably had the best weather yet, except the rain late in the afternoon,” said Andrea Hatch, downtown art gallery owner, who co-ordinated the event with the Town of Stettler.

“Artists absolutely just loved the day.”

Local and visiting artists from central Alberta displayed their creative works under beautiful skies and warm weather, and not a breeze in sight. The rain didn’t come until late afternoon.

Two longtime local artists gave the art walk top marks.

“It’s a wonderful privilege to be part of this art walk,” said Phyllis Starling, who has been painting for about 70 years.

“We don’t get to show our art to the public at any other time, and this is an opportunity to showcase art in this area.”

Pauline Christian was another local artist who has become a regular in the event.

“It’s a good chance to talk with other artists and show what we do,” said Christian, who is one of about 12 women who gather at Stettler United Church each Wednesday to paint and share ideas.

Several new and visiting artists were on board this year.

“It’s always good to have new artists,” said Coronation-based artist Margi Matkea.

She particularly welcomed the work of Kari Fell, who traveled all the way from Vegreville.

“I like to go to other communities and talk to the people and see their reaction to my work,” Fell said.

An artist from Castor said she values the opportunity to share her art at the Stettler event.

“It helps me to show my art and get to meet other artists and all the interesting people who participate,” said Pat Lang.

Next year’s Art Walk has been planned for the second weekend of June to help kick off Crazy Daze and not compete with as many other activities in the region.

RICHARD FROESE, Independent reporter