Artspace: Gallery gift shop promoting local artists
Arts/Life
Posted 2 months ago
Pembina Hills Arts Centre administrator Monica Friesen stands amidst some of the varied artistic works that are on display and for sale in gallery gift shop in downtown Morden.
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“A gallery or museum tells the story of the community. They tell you what Morden is and what the Pembina Valley is, and that’s what we offer that most gift shops don’t.”
By Steven Sukkau
Artists help keep history alive by telling our stories and affirming our identity.
The Pembina Hills Art Centre does exactly that for Morden, something administrative director Monica Friesen doesn't take for granted.
After returning from a trip to Alberta in hopes of learning a few tips on tourism, she realized she couldn't find anything there quite like the arts centre here.
"Everything in here is original, nothing is made from a kit or mass produced, It's all by local artists," Friesen said.
And the difference means everything in the centre has a special story to tell about Morden.
That's why the gallery and gift shop has been rerevamped to build on that strength with the emphasis on local works.
They made room for more local art including mugs, platters and pitchers by Jennifer Hildebrand, wedding and graduation cards handcrafted by Elaine Carter, beeswax candles in all sizes from Sweetness & Light, and nature inspired jewelry by Pam Yorke-Hardy.
"A gallery or museum tells the story of the community. They tell you what Morden is and what the Pembina Valley is, and that's what we offer that most gift shops don't," Friesen said.
She noted that without local art, questions like who are we and where have we been can go unanswered.
"Artists tell that story," Friesen said, "and every community needs that legacy."
However, she wonders if sometimes locals forget to take advantage of it, something Friesen hopes to change.
Many people don't think of trying the centre when buying gifts and unique home decor until they need a souvenir for someone leaving Morden.
Friesen also wondered if the gift shop is forgotten among the many classes, exhibitions and galleries.
But she encourages everyone to have at least one piece of original art and suggests it doesn't have to match everything in the house.
And it doesn't have to cost a fortune either, as many artists provide limited edition framed prints.
"You buy original art because you love it, not because it matches," Friesen said.
Check it out for yourself at 352 Stephen St. in downtown Morden. You can also go to the website at www.pembinahillsarts.com
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