Thirty-nine locals collaborated last week to create yet another memorable Banner Project, for the 13th anniversary of the event.
The Arts Station was overflowing with locals on Thursday night, who came to see this year’s banners. The chosen banners will be placed on 2nd Ave. for one year, then moved to Hwy 3 for the second year.
The first banner project was in 1999, and in 2004 the Arts Council requested that the program continue, which formed a partnership as well as an annual tradition.
Local resident Linda Hide was the brains behind the project, bringing forth the idea of sourcing art from locals. Terry Nelson had previously worked on this project, and chose the background colours, making sure the beautiful works of art stood out as spectacular. Nelson has since retired, and Vanessa Croome was commissioned to do this work for the first time this year. Mayor Mary Giuliano thanked Croome for taking on this special community project.
“This is something that Fernie started, and it’s unique and it’s wonderful, and we need to make sure that it continues long after I’m gone,” said Giuliano.
This year, there were 100 artwork entries, and 39 were chosen. Sixty-seven artists submitted work, as well as some parents who submitted artwork done by their children. These included students from The Fernie Academy as well as Fernie Secondary School.
“On behalf of Council and the City I want to express sincere gratitude and thanks to Donna, Terry, Vanessa, The Arts Station administrator, the adjudication committee and all of the many volunteers and artists that keep this program flourishing,” said Giuliano.
Giuliano also went on to thank The Arts Station Board, city workers, volunteers, musicians, photographers, potters, crafters, artisans and everyone else who supports The Arts Station in so many ways.
“It is all of you that continue to keep this building not just a structure, but a place that is vibrant with arts and culture programs and events,” she said. “Your participation is what has given Fernie a reputation for being a very progressive arts and culture community.”
Grade six Fernie Academy student, Joy Attalla was one of the 39 artists who submitted art and was selected for a banner. Born and raised in Fernie, Attalla has been painting since she was five, and was inspired to create a self-portrait that best represents her daily life. Growing up, she was always the first one at the craft table and the last one to leave.
In her self-portrait, there are four flamingos in her hair. Attalla said these represent the crazy hair she wakes up with every morning. She completed this project in just three days.
Asked what it felt like to be chosen, she said, “(It’s) really exciting. It’s cool to see it so big.”
Attalla’s work was placed on the stage next to Sandra Barrett’s ‘True North’ felt work. Attalla mentioned that it was special to be placed beside her, and that earlier in the night someone had mistaken her work for that of an adult.