The young Picasso artists of Gimli aged 6 to 14 showcased their masterpieces at the Hidden Treasure’s Art Show last week at the Lakeview Resort.
Thanks to the after-school art programs offered by Hidden Treasures Art Studio, these young minds had a platform to express themselves throughout the school year with five enriching two-month sessions.
Under the guidance of owners Barb and Don Fletcher, who is also President of the Gimli Art Club, these budding artists flourished in an environment that nurtured their artistic growth.
From humble beginnings with just four students in 2022, Hidden Treasures now proudly supports 39 young artists who crafted awe-inspiring pieces under Barb Fletcher’s mentorship.
“It is incredible the art they have created,” said an ecstatic Fletcher.
The diverse range of artwork on display – from journals to glass fused creations, pastels, charcoal pieces and clay structures – captivated the audience and judges which highlighted each artist’s unique style and talent.
Over 70 friends, family and art enthusiasts attended the Hidden Treasure’s Art Show.
“There was a piece of art for everyone to enjoy,” added Fletcher.
Judging the array of masterpieces were esteemed members Suzanne Barrow, Don Fletcher, John Glassco and Sharon Cory from Gimli Art Club with decades of combined experience in various art forms.
“These are very well-known artists judging these kid’s masterpieces,” said Barb Fletcher.
Judges carefully selected top artworks based on creativity, technique mastery, and originality.
Barrow is famous for her oil and acrylic painting of the prairie skies.
Glassco worked as an industrial designer and Cory is the spearhead of the Artist of the Lake art group. Don Fletcher is known for his glass work from Senor Fletcher’s Galeria.
All judges proudly work in Gimli and are very involved in the community.
Barb Fletcher explained that this event not only celebrated artistic expression but also highlighted the importance of nurturing creativity from a young age
“It is the backbone to get kids creative and we want to keep the art movement going in Gimli.”
The top three artworks of each program were awarded a ribbon, along with ten honourable mentions.
In the five different categories, judges scouted artworks that were unique and followed proper art techniques.
Fletcher and the judges applaud these young artists for their achievements and commend the dedication of those who support them, it’s evident that the future of art in Gimli is bright.
Express Photos by Rayme Thomson
Diverse art projects included clay and fused glass – leaf plates and principals of art – balance and patterns and mixed media
The award winners were announced at the Hidden Treasure’s presentation the following evening.
Clay and Fused Glass:
• 1- Chyanne Birchwood
• 2- Jaclyn Wilton
• 3- Anna Palson
• Honourable mentions- Nikita Amos and Zoe Klassen
Principles of Art:
• 1- Jaclyn Wilton
• 2- Stella Wall
• 3- Skylar Gilbert
• Honourable mentions- Nikita Amos and Sabrina Klassen
Art Journaling- Presented by Inner Wisdom Massage Therapy, Marnie Chivers:
• 1- Skylar Gilbert
• 2- Locklyn Gilbert
• 3- Aron Peters
• Honourable mentions- Mya Young and Ashlyn Yaremhiewich
Mixed Media
• 1- Nikita Amos
• 2- Chyanne Birchwood
• 3- Skylar Gilbert
• Honourable mentions- Wren Nickerson and Stella Wall
Pastels and Charcoals:
• 1- Aron Peters
• 2- Maddie Vowles
• 3- Skylar Gilbert
• Honourable mentions- Stella Wall and Locklyn Gilbert
Winter Wonderland canvas painting (sponsored by the Ice Festival)- Presented by Ice Festival Co-Founders and Co-Chairs Susan and Peter Holfeur:
• People’s Award: Skylar Gilbert
• 1- Emmersyn Kmet
• 2- Alexix Schroeder
• 3- Jaclyn Wilton
On Thursday evening, four special awards were presented to the original students of Hidden Treasure’s art program.
The awards were presented by Hailey’s Way Inc.:
• Willow Whiteway
• Jaclyn Wilton
• Skylar Gilbert
• Nikita Amos
A volunteer award was also presented to dedicated student:
• Jaclyn Wilton
At the presentation, Barb Fletcher also announced the opening of the new Just Gogh Picasso art school, which will be home to Hidden Treasure’s art programs.
The grand opening and ribbon cutting will be on Thursday, Sept. 12.
Hidden Treasures is expanding their current kids art programs to become not for profit, allowing equal opportunity for all children to attend as the interest in art among youth is booming.
“I can’t believe how the kids are picking up around art,” said Barb Fletcher.
The program has doubled in size from last year.
As for now, Hidden Treasure’s continues to host their programming and summer camps out of their current location at 1-40 Centre St.
For details about what Hidden Treasure’s has to offer, visit their website or social media pages.
Express Photo by Rayme Thomson
