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Rossland Public Library Invitation for Collaboration
Submitted by Seven Summits Cen... on Thu, 19/01/2023 - 10:02am
When the Rossland Public Library offered Seven Summits Centre for Learning an invitation to collaborate and celebrate artistic creations, community spirit flourished. “Traditionally, a library was a stand-alone entity where people went to take out books and focus on reading. Today, the library is a diverse and multifaceted meeting place that serves the needs of the public,” says Penny Johnson, a library representative. “Our library has branched out and instigated many relationships to provide a collaborative space to gather and feature aspiring artists’ work.” The most recent partnership is with the Seven Summits Centre for Learning students, who approved artwork to be exhibited at the Rossland Public Library for the next three months. “We reached out to 7S as the visual arts program is very comprehensive, and the work shows the diversity the library recognizes as important to showcase. These visual arts programs also produce many future artists,” continues Johnson. The students at 7S do more than just paint or draw. Shauna Davis, the mentor for the program, teaches students many different art modalities. “Art is not out of reach whether a student believes, or has been told that they are good at it or not,” says Davis. “I firmly believe that art is for everyone,” she adds. Davis describes her art class workshop as a secure place for students to express themselves. This leads to optimism as students spread the message that making things is fun. “Students make pop art paper mache, linocut prints, grid-transfer drawings, zentangles, and other creative visual art expressions,” says Davis. The Rossland Public Library board felt it was imperative to provide support and space for emerging artists to display their art. “Our wall space is best used to provide this opportunity for exposure. So, we met with the Rossland Arts Council to further this offer. Once an exhibit or event is over, the artist’s work can be moved to the library for continued display,” says Johnson. “Today’s library is a public place to do more than promote reading. It is a safe, warm, inclusive place with opportunities for personal growth and expression. This framework is important to promote community spirit.” The library has expanded the afterschool programming, activities, and workshops. Topics such as beading, crafts, storytelling, textiles, and robot-making are now available at the Rossland Public Library. The director, Stacey Boden, reiterates Johnson’s sentiments. “The focus of libraries is shifting, and it is heartwarming and encouraging to see such an age-old institution grow along with the communities we serve. Our partnership with the Arts Council and local artists in Rossland brings a vibrancy to the library that wouldn’t exist without the idea that the library is a community space for everyone. We are here to provide a safe space and access to opportunities. Showcasing local artists aligns with our goal to promote the incredible talent in Rossland, including our incredible staff who make these opportunities possible.” Finding personal expression through art and the creative process is the goal of most art educators. “The library works to showcase and provide a golden opportunity to display creations. This will motivate the public to participate in offerings at the Rossland Public Library and stimulate community collaboration and spirit. The library is not just a place to ‘be quiet and shushed’; it’s a place to be joyous, included, and enjoy participating,” concludes Johnson. Go ahead, stop into the Rossland Public Library, and discover how modern library adaptations provide adventurous possibilities. Contact information: For further media information, please contact Seven Summits Centre for Learning Administrator at info@sevensummitslearning.com Author: Tara Hauck, Marketing Coordinator Seven Summits Centre for Learning.
About us:Seven Summits Centre for Learning is an exceptional public high school experience that offers a blended learning model for grades 8 through 12 in Rossland, B.C. Please help us to honour and promote our outstanding students, past and present, by placing our articles in your newspaper. Town: Rossland, BC Photos:
 
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