IN THE GALLERY
SEPTEMBER 9 - DECEMBER 4 , 2022 :
WOMEN OF MICHEL – AN ART INSTALLATION
The above-ground realm of women and girls in the coal mining town of Michel was one of colour , caretaking and pride . After its relocation to Sparwood in the mid 1960s , Michel ceased to exist on the map . For those who lived there , Michel still exists in their hearts and the things they create .
This art installation will feature paintings , drawings and fibre arts by four Michelborn artists . Artists Michelle Kozler Loughery , Gayle Gaskell Vallance , Monica Paniec Beranek and Elaine Gaskell DeSpoelberch invite you into their place of origin , the place that
informed and inspired them . Artifacts from the community will add context .
The exhibit will anchor the 2022 Fernie Chautauqua Festival and includes an opening reception on September 9 .
On September 10 , associated programming at Chautauqua includes : a Panel Luncheon with the artists ; also featuring an opportunity for former Michel residents to record their stories . Ghost Schools of Michel Natal , a one-day temporary exhibit examining the lives of school children from the former community on display at the Chautauqua Festival grounds at City Hall . At 7pm , Dancing in the Dark – a Celebration of Coal Town Memories will include a four-course homestyle dinner , live music from the Hark Raving Sirens and The Banned , and performance vignettes reliving the spirit of Michel .
MUSIC
CULTURE
SEPTEMBER 9 - 11 , 2022 HISTORIC DOWNTOWN FERNIE A celebration of community , creativity , and history in the tradition of the Chautauquas of the 1920s .
KIDS
CREATIVITY
ART
HERITAGE
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