To say it’s been a different, unexpected and in many ways trying 2020 might be the understatement of the year! But we at LOWAC are proud of how we and the artisans we serve were able to find ways to rise about the challenges thrown at us by a global pandemic.
We were still able to support two up and coming artists, Jesse McIsaac of St. Thomas Aquinas and Cailyn Leischow of Beaver Brae, who each received a $500 bursary from LOWAC. While the Kenora Festival of the Arts was cancelled in 2020, we look forward to continuing to support it with a $100 bursary that is awarded each year.
We provided a voice for local artisans through our partnership with projects like ArtsBuild Ontario, who in association with the NORDIK Institute, provided a forum for community input about existing creative spaces, arts facilities what exists, where there are gaps and needs, and concerns, ideas, and hopes for the future.
Most notably, LOWAC turned the confines of COVID-19 into an opportunity to connect artists with the broader community through our Arts@Home initiative. This would not a have been possible without the support of the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Regional community Foundation. Arts@Home is a series of FREE on-line performances and workshops encompassing all creative disciplines. 2020 included presentations by local visual artists Irene McCuaig and Elizabeth Wires and the performing student ensemble of Kenora, Opera, Theatre and Beyond.
All three sessions achieved just what we’d hoped for – bringing creative folks from near and far together when we’ve had to be a part for so long. Irene’s session, Notan with Watercolours and Elizabeth’s presentation on mosaic glass were great evenings of learning, sharing and laughter. Kenora, Opera, Theatre and Beyond’s presentation of a Christmas Carol was an outstanding way to wrap up the 2020 season, drawing almost 60 viewers for the lively radio play performance.
In addition to the Community, we owe special thanks 89.5 Fm the Lake and Kenora Miner & News and the LOWAC Board members who are working tirelessly to make this happen. And to the artisans themselves of course we we send our sincere gratitude as we have heard from many people how much these acts of generosity have meant to them throughout the year.
You can find out more about our upcoming Arts@Home 2021 presentations at https://lowac.ca/artshome/. Next up is Dave Schwartz, on January 13, which promises to be a fun hour of Humour in Writing.
All of this wouldn’t be possible without our members. If you haven’t renewed or would like to get a LOWAC membership, visit lowac.ca. We would again be most appreciative for your support so that we can continue to fulfill our purpose to foster and promote the spirit of creativity in the City of Kenora and the surrounding area of Lake of the Woods.
Our wish for you as the new year unfolds is for happiness and a year filled with connection and success.
