KENOSEE LAKE - Kenosee’s artist retreat held its seventh annual event on Aug. 30 at the Girls' and Boys' Camp at the Catholic Centre.
The 24 artists enjoyed time together from Aug. 26-Sept. 1, when they packed up and headed home to wait for next year to come.
Margaret Delainy was the first artist to attend the Artist Colony at Moose Mountain Provincial Park more than 20 years ago, and she has not missed one retreat.
Jacque Beckett, Jerri Larid, Holly Davin and Ken Fredericksen have organized it from the beginning.
They wanted to find a place where artists could gather and enjoy each other’s company while sharing ideas and techniques.
Delainy said that there are artists that wait all year just to come to the retreat.
Artists came from Manitoba and British Columbia to enjoy a relaxing environment while being able to paint, whether it was all day or just a few hours.
Those that attend can do what they like. If they want to go boating, read or take a lengthy hike, it is all up to the individual.
“The hall is filled with laughter, and everyone supports each other,” said Delainy, “It is just a wonderful event.”
“I wait all year for this inspirational event,” added Elaine Rawling from Manitoba.
The evenings are usually filled with music, as someone who attends has brought a guitar and begins to sing. Soon others will join in on the fun.
This year people could come and check out the work all the artists had created. The evening was successful, with a wide variety of mediums being used.
“They do a fantastic job,” said Delainy. “We all go home 10 pounds heavier because the food is so delicious.”
“This is our summer family,” added Davin.
Many of them are sad to go home, as they feel it is so relaxing, inspiring and it lasts a lifetime.
“I will definitely return next year, because I loved it,” said Joanne Clark of British Columbia.
Larry Jackson, a Regina artist said, “It is food for the soul and the peace and beauty here is unbeatable.”
Through the years the retreat has purchased the wires and clips that are in the cabins for the artists to hang their work, so as to not damage the newly renovated walls. They have also purchased the railings for outside.
Other years they have had all the artists work on one masterpiece and at the end of the event, it is auctioned off, but they decided to change things up this year and not do it.
“It was another great event put on by the committee,” said Delainy. “It is an event I do not want to miss.”
A crowd of 60 people came through the doors to check out the talents of the 24 artists. It was also a time that pieces could be purchased.
Those that attended look forward to next year’s gala affair.
