By Voice staff
One of the most vital sources of support for Gallery in the Park in Altona has been Friesens Corporation.
Since its founding in 2006, the gallery has grown into one of southern Manitoba’s most admired cultural spaces, and it is an evolution made possible in large part through the steadfast support of Friesens.
With its 2024/25 contribution of $25,000, including $15,000 dedicated specifically to the sculpture fund, Friesens reinforces a long-standing commitment to the arts, community, and cultural enrichment in Altona and beyond.
“Supporting Gallery in the Park is something I care about deeply,” shared Odia Reimer, vice-president of people and culture for Friesens. “It’s a place that has inspired me for years, and I love seeing how it brings people together and fills our community with creativity. Friesens is proud to help make that happen.”
Current committee chair for Gallery in the Park Al Friesen has been closely connected to the facility since the 1980s, and he reflected on the profound role Friesens has played in nurturing the gallery’s success.
“Successful organizations rely on financial, organizational, and volunteer support, and Friesens has provided all three,” he noted.
Friesens was integral in the key transition of the former Schwartz Heritage House into a community-owned gallery and sculpture garden, and it was an effort supported through the involvement of David Friesen on the original steering committee.
The company’s investment extends beyond funding—retired staff member Steve Penner and Reimer have contributed expertise, governance, and even their own artistic talent. Penner continues to serve on the sculpture acquisition committee.
“Steve and Odia displayed their personal works of art, which gave us credibility within artist circles,” noted Friesen. “Odia’s time as curator was extremely beneficial in the early years, giving us grounding and direction right from the start.”
One of the most symbolic contributions was Friesens’ donation of an original Leo Mol sculpture which is now prominently positioned at the gallery entrance as an enduring marker of the partnership’s impact.
Annual donations from Friesens also play a crucial role in expanding the sculpture garden, supporting day-to-day operations, and enabling special events and facility upgrades.
“The gallery has become a catalyst for residents from Altona and beyond to enjoy quality art in their home community,” Friesen noted. “Friesens ongoing donations also attract interest from other potential donors, allowing us to make significant progress on our master plan for the sculpture garden.”
He suggested the positive ripple effects of Friesens’ generosity are deeply felt across the region and that Altona’s arts landscape has flourished, elevating both established and emerging talent.
“It would be fair to say that without Friesens, Altona’s art and culture scene would not be what it is today,” he said. “A local artist once said we should create a ‘world class’ facility. Maybe that was ambitious, but thanks to Friesens and other builders, we have a truly first-class gallery.”
As Gallery in the Park continues advancing through its master plan, additional green spaces will be filled with sculptures, many made possible through Friesens contributions. The gallery also aims to further expand its programs, deepen community engagement and welcome both seasoned art lovers and those discovering the arts for the first time.
