Kiyooka Ohe Arts Centre is welcoming everyone to its first-ever Neighbour Appreciation Day on Sunday, June 8.
Located on the border of west Calgary and Springbank, it is a publicly accessible non-profit arts centre that focuses on lectures, workshops, and exhibitions of local and international contemporary art - with an emphasis on an outdoor sculpture park.
On the day, attendees will receive guided tours of the sculpture park every hour on the hour, which features 20 large-scale works.
Community Partnerships Coordinator Shelby Charlesworth called it a low pressure and accessible drop-in activity for residents to explore, art, nature, and a chance to connect with others.
"This is an initiative to kick off the season and bring neighbours together to learn about what it's all about," Charlesworth explained.
Other engagement activities will be happening on the day, such as an opportunity to meet with the centre's current artist in residence, Sinéad Ludwig-Burgess, who can answer questions about Kiyooka Ohe's residency program.
Former artist in residence, Ryan Smitham, will also be on site to facilitate a collaborative collage image activity for participants to do together.
Charlesworth said this is also a good opportunity for people to come learn about the founders and the history of the centre.
The Kiyooka Ohe Arts Centre was founded by artists Harry Kiyooka and Katie Ohe in 2007. It became a registered charity in 2010 and opened to the public near the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.
It was initially purchased in the 1970s as a private workspace, but now people are encouraged to visit and use the 4,500 square foot program and exhibition space.
"We have been thinking about idea of community, which is why we're eager to meet people," Charlesworth said. "We want you to come feel welcome within the space, meet others, and form a community. Come and ask questions."
Neighbour Appreciation Day will take place between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at 244034 Horizon View Road.
The event is free and no reservation is required, but donations to the centre can be made through Canada Helps.
Workshops and a gala exhibition on Sept. 6 are set for the coming months. Charlesworth said if successful, Neighbour Appreciation Day could turn into an annual event to kick off their season.
"It doesn't matter if you make art, you appreciate art, or you love nature, it's a welcoming environment and a special destination," Charlesworth added. "There is not a lot of other spaces like this in Alberta."
More information about the park and visiting details can be found at www.koartscentre.org.
