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Arts

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From May 16th to June 3rd the Firstontario Arts Centre in Milton was the home to Kala: The Colours of South Asia, an art exhibit showcasing South Asian art forms features both established as well as emerging local artists.

Over 300 guests attended Kala’s gallery opening night. It was one of the best openings the gallery has seen, cementing that the South Asian community was waiting for an opportunity like this to see themselves represented. This exhibit displayed various South Asian art techniques and everyone was encouraged to come and appreciate the beautiful art on display.  This art exhibition was the first of its kind celebration of South Asian Heritage Month in Milton. The exhibition has artists from India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan participating.

May 7th at the First Ontario Arts Centre Milton was the inaugural Milton Friendship Project Bus Tour by Arts Milton. The Friendship Project 2023 began with a meet and greet in February, and they are currently in the midst of 14 activities across Milton. Tony the Milton Bus Driver took the Milton Friendship group on a tour to showcase significant landmarks of Milton, including Arts Milton’s 10 traffic boxes, which were created through their Exclusively Inclusive program. Tony also highlighted that the bus being used is a brand-new addition to the towns fleet.

This is an opportunity to celebrate, honour and re.ect on the stories, experiences and accomplishments of Black Canadians.

The Black History Month exhibition at the Milton Art’s Centre showcases the diverse work of talented artists Désiré Betty, Omar Hopkinson and the Association of Nigerian Community in Milton (ANCim).

Last month I got a chance to meet several of the talented youth artists that participated in ANCim’s exhibition as well as meet some of their parents. _Thank you Edosa Adams-Idode for making me aware of this and inviting me and others to attend.

Yun Xie is a member of the Fine Arts Society of Milton and also a member of the Shanghai, China Folk Artists Association. She is well known internationally for her exquisite paper-cutting creations. Paper cutting is one of the oldest, most popular folk arts in China and a traditional part of Chinese culture.

“This intricate art form originates from China and is a precious intangible cultural heritage of the Chinese nation” Yun declared, “As one of a new generation of Chinese paper-cut artists, I am committed to combining traditional elements with new ideas to show the unique charm of paper cut art and make this ancient Chinese culture go further to the world.” Her designs represent nature by using mostly animals and flowers.

On April 18, 2020 Deana Wilson greeted a large online gathering of guests. “I want to thank everyone for coming to join this Zoom live today!” The event in question, originally intended to be an in-person gathering, was a book launch for “Liam, Strong as a Tree.” The book celebrates the strength of her son Liam, who was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at just three weeks old.

Amidst the COVID-19 world pandemic, arts and culture quietly closed its doors to the public. As people were reeling from news of sickness, financial anxiety, and the inability to see or embrace their loved ones, institutions and organizations across the world cancelled classes, workshops, exhibits, and events. The arts community in Milton followed suit. During a time when people have lost jobs, and access to the things they need the most, the importance of arts and culture falls lower on the list of priorities.

Kids entertainment was top of mind at this year’s annual SuperStarrs 2 SuperHeros event – benefiting the Toronto Sick Kids Foundation. Children visiting with their families were encouraged to dress up as their favorite fictional character or superhero. The event’s organizers are Leesa Ervin and Deana Wilson. Wilson is a Milton mother who aims to raise awareness for cystic fibrosis – her son Liam was diagnosed with the disease at 3 weeks old.

Teens who signed up for the Mentorship Programme with Artists from the Fine Arts Society of Milton at the First Ontario Art Centre in March 2019 expressed their need for their mentors to take time to give tips, correct mistakes and offer encouragement.This year for 4 Sunday afternoons the volunteer mentors from FASM were: leader Ursula McDermid- acrylic painter and pastellist; Kirsty Rutter-acrylics; Jenny Panda- acrylics, mixed media and illustration.During the sessions, other artists joined the group: Shelley Prior-water colourist, Linda Johnston-fabric art and sewing and Louise Botha -painter, art as therapy, art as a career.