Artists from the Drumheller Institution have put together an exhibition that will pay dividends in the community.
This month at the Western GM Gallery at the Badlands Community Facility, an exhibition of approximately 50 pieces are on display and for sale. The exhibition is called “A Community Behind Bars,” and is presented by the Drumheller Institution’s Indigenous Cultural Support Group and Cultural Centre.
“We’re really happy to have it here and to showcase all of their art,” said Indigenous Liaison Officer Kathy Koustrup. “It is a form of expression for them, and when they come to the Cultural Centre, it is like a safe haven for them, and they get to express themselves, it is a form of freedom.”
The work is diverse, with everything from painting and pencil drawing wall art, to beadwork, dream catchers, mixed media art, a tipi, and diversity mural.
These works were put together by about 15 artists serving at the Drumheller Institution and came together rather quickly. The works of art are for sale, and the proceeds go to the Drumheller Asset Development Coalition and the Drumheller Public Library.
Koustrup says the fact the work is going to support the community was a motivator for the artists.
“They asked me what it is going to, and I said ‘youth with addictions and mental health,’ and they said they would bring something down,” she said. ‘They are up for it, they grew up with it, and know Drumheller has really struggled with it … so they really wanted to help out.”
A Community Behind Bars is on display at the BCF until the end of July.