Gallery in the Park officially launched its 2026 season with a well-attended opening gala that featured new exhibitions, more than 100 guests, and the unveiling of a significant new addition to the sculpture garden.
Artist Galina Steko’s “Immigrant” is the latest addition to Gallery in the Park’s sculpture garden
Immigrant, a sculpture by Quebec artist Galina Stetko, was donated by Linda and the late Ray Loewen and was formally unveiled during the May 29 gala. Family and friends of the Loewens were on hand for the occasion, including one of the couple’s daughters, who shared a tribute recognizing the donation and its significance to the gallery.
“It was beautiful,” said gallery manager and curator Renee Friesen. “People were really touched.”
The sculpture unveiling was part of a larger celebration that marked the beginning of the gallery’s first exhibition season of the year.
Friesen said the opening gala was a tremendous success, drawing more than 100 visitors to experience the new exhibitions and reconnect with the gallery after the winter months.
“You hear it and you see it,” she said. “People are just blown away by our space, but then by the artworks that these artists create and put into the space. It makes us excited too.”
Visitors to the gallery this season can explore several exhibitions throughout the building. On the main floor, artist Kathy Lewandowski is presenting two complementary exhibitions:, Gossamer on Ground and Journey into Brassica, which Friesen describes as colourful, immersive, and perfectly suited to the gallery space.
Upstairs, visitors can view A Wrinkle in Time by watercolour artist Clyde Finlay, featuring landscapes from Manitoba as well as scenes inspired by travels in France and Poland.
Also on display is For God’s Glory, a collection of medium- and large-scale abstract paintings by Sylke van Niekerk.
In addition to the exhibitions, Gallery in the Park has several special events planned for the coming months. A music night featuring Warren Friesen, Brett Schultz, and Arlen Penner is scheduled for July 16, while Lewandowski will host an artist talk on July 30.
The second half of the season at the gallery will launch Aug. 6 with new artist exhibitions.
Friesen said the gallery remains grateful for the support it receives from donors, volunteers, the Town of Altona, and local partners.
“We literally could not do it without them,” she said.
