by Carole Epp | Nov 5, 2011 | Uncategorized


In September 2009, the Friends of Medalta Society received over $3 million in funding from the Federal Government’s Economic Action Plan which would enable them to strengthen economic opportunities in Medicine Hat. On Saturday, November 5, 2011, the Friends of Medalta will be unveiling their new gift shop, changing exhibit gallery, major reception gallery and collector’s gallery at the Medalta Potteries National Historic Site, which is a centerpiece of the Historic Clay District.
“Today’s grand opening of Medalta’s new facilities marks an important milestone for a cultural landmark that plays a vital role in attracting visitors to our community while preserving our past,” said LaVar Payne, Member of Parliament for Medicine Hat, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification. “Our Government is proud to have contributed to an initiative that is creating economic benefits and jobs in our community.”
In addition to the Federal Government’s support of the enhancements at Medalta, the Government of Alberta contributed over $1 million, primarily from the Major Community Facilities Program, while the City of Medicine Hat contributed $365,000.

The construction work created significant jobs for local workers over the past two years, positively impacting the local economy during tough economic times. With the enhancements completed, Medalta is expected to be a major regional destination, drawing additional visitors to the area, further impacting the local economy.
“Thanks to the Community Adjustment Fund and Canada’s Economic Action Plan, we have been able to hire a significant amount of local workers,” explained Historic Clay District Executive Director Barry Finkelman. “With these new facilities now open to the public, this region will see additional and sustained economic benefit from being a strong tourism draw.”

To celebrate Medalta’s enhancements, a grand opening celebration is being held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 5, 2011. At that time, it will be dedicated the “Yuill Family Gallery” and will feature greetings from Federal, Provincial and Municipal representatives. Everyone is welcome to attend this event.
For more info:
Quentin Randall
Marketing & Fundraising Coordinator
Medalta, in the Historic Clay District
p. 403.529.1070 e. [email protected]
by Carole Epp | Oct 28, 2011 | Uncategorized
Friends of NSCAD University October 20, 2011 Subject:
THE FUTURE OF NSCAD UNIVERSITY Dear Friends, NSCAD University is Canada’s oldest fine art degree granting university, and the only independent institution offering a full range of undergraduate and graduate programming in visual art and design east of Ontario. As you may know, Howard Windsor, the former Policy Analyst with Labour and Advanced Education for the province of Nova Scotia, has been appointed by the Minister of Advanced Education to examine the future of NSCAD University. Mr. Windsor has been given an open mandate by the Minister to propose a fate for the school which may include the termination of programs to wholesale or fragmented mergers with other provincial institutions. 2012 marks NSCAD University’s 125th birthday, and we need your support in ensuring another 125 years for one of North America’s leading autonomous art and design institutions. We are appealing to you to help communicate to the Province of Nova Scotia why NSCAD University’s continued existence is important to you. Please let the Premier of Nova Scotia, Darrell Dexter
[email protected] and the Minister of Labour and Advanced Education Marilyn More
[email protected] know how NSCAD University has contributed to the vitality of visual culture locally, nationally and internationally. Please forward this message to those who may be able to play a part in supporting NSCAD University as an autonomous institution. Sincerely,
The Friends of NSCAD University [email protected] Friends of NSCAD University an ad hoc group of faculty, staff and alumni created to promote the continued existence of NSCAD University as one of Canada’s leading autonomous art and design institutions.
by Carole Epp | Oct 27, 2011 | Uncategorized





The show features work born out of a collaboration between Marney McDiarmid, wire artist Maggie Hogan, and photographer Jeffery Barbeau. The pieces will be on display until November 13th in conjunction with paintings by Nava Waxman.
Visit the gallery website or take some time to have a closer look at Marney’s gorgeous work on her personal website.
by Carole Epp | Oct 26, 2011 | Uncategorized

NovemberJoin us on Saturday November 5
Reception for Barbara Tipton and The Makings II, 2-5 pm
Andrew Nikiforuk book signing 6-7:30 pm
Barbara Tipton, Thunderhead Blue, ceramic sculptureA Departure of Cups with Barbara Tipton
Tapping our memories, Barbara Tipton returns to familiar themes to investigate fundamental forms and expressions on and of cups and saucers
The Makings II – group exhibition
The gallery is hosting its second annual group exhibition of contemporary and historic ceramic works by established senior gallery artists, a selection of innovative mid-career, and a number of emerging ceramicists. Ceramic artists included are John Chalke RCA, Bradley Keys, Les Manning, Robin, Dupont, Emily Schroeder Willis, Ed Bamiling, Neil Liske, Sean Kunz, Fran Cuyler, Do-Hee Sung, Priscilla Janes, and more. In addition, historic works by past Royal Canadian Academy artist Luke Lindoe rounds out the exhibition.
Willock & Sax Gallery
Open 10 – 6 daily
closed for 12-1 for lunch on weekdays
403-762-2214
866-859-2220
[email protected]
110 Bison Courtyard, 211 Bear St.
P.O. Box 2469
Banff, AB
T1L 1C2
by Carole Epp | Oct 23, 2011 | Uncategorized

Bob Reimer passed away October 20th at the age of 57. Born August. 11, 1954, in Steinbach Manitoba, Bob lived most of his life in British Columbia before moving to Calgary in 1980 to start his family and ceramics career. He leaves behind three children; Julia, Peter and Angela, four grand-children, his former partner and best friend Jeannie, a community of friends, colleagues and students. Bob was known as a passionate, loving, talented and humorous individual, an asset to the ceramics community and a beloved teacher. He touched many lives. He will be remembered fondly, and thought of daily. No words can describe the grief we are all feeling while coping with this sudden loss. We take comfort in knowing he did not suffer, he was happy and loved by many. A special thanks for all the support received from friends and family. We will be celebrating Bob, a remarkable individual, at North Mount Pleasant Arts Center, 402, 470 – 27 Avenue N.W., Calgary on Monday, October 24 at 3:00 p.m. Please bring your stories, smiles and clay splattered pants if you have them. If you would like to send your thoughts or condolences please e-mail [email protected] or visit WeRememberBob.Tumblr.com .