Supporting creative expression, community, and healing through the arts.
The Campbell River Art Gallery is proud to announce a donation for the Art Hive program of $15,000 by Canadian Tire Campbell River owner, Grant Wood. Since Wood has taken over ownership of the Campbell River Canadian Tire, there have been upgrades to the facility and also expansion of support and outreach into the community. Grant connected with the gallery about the Art Hive program and its impact directly with the vulnerable sector. The CRAG is very grateful for this local support to run this barrier-free program.
The CRAG is also honored that it has been awarded $25,000 through the Arts-Based Community Development Program administered by the BC Arts Council, and an additional $25,000 from the Leon and Thea Koerner Legacy Fund administered by the Aqueduct Foundation.
Photo: Art Hive Live Screen Printing at National Indigenous People’s Day. (L-R) Rose Thomas, Grant Wood, Jenelle Pasiechnik, Mathias Thomas. Photo courtesy of the CRAG.
In 2021, the Campbell River Art Gallery identified a lack of arts-based programming for individuals impacted by homelessness, substance use, and mental health challenges. Community members, or “Peers,” expressed a desire for a safe, inclusive space where they could create art free from judgment or barriers and potentially earn income through their work.
Since February 2022, artist Nad Bariteau has facilitated a weekly open studio at CRAG, providing a supportive space for connection, creativity, and recovery.
“The Art Hive gives people the chance to step into a creative practice that greatly helps their self-esteem and confidence. It is a springboard for recovery.”
Nad Bariteau, Creative Director of the Art Hive
Thanks to this funding, the Art Hive will continue to support creative and professional opportunities for its participants. Artists may sell their work through the CRAG Gallery Shop as consignors. Many have learned to screen print, with their designs now visible on shirts worn throughout Campbell River and beyond.
“The Hive has had many profound impacts on my new life, first I finally established the community I find balance in. The Hive gives spirit allowing a true artist nature to flow. I also appreciate the huge love and teamwork that grows as we craft. I witness a friend crafting that quickly becomes family.”
Tracy Sibbeston, Art Hive Program Assistant and Participant
Art Hive participants also engage with the wider community through CRAG outreach programs. From working alongside staff at events such as Pride, National Indigenous Peoples Day, Santa’s Breakfast, the Campbell River Farmers’ Market and including next Tuesday during National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Day. Orange shirts and other artworks from the Art Hive program are available for purchase in the Gallery Shop.
Mathias Thomas printing his own design at the Art Hive program.
