Bactalk

Have you signed up for the Summit yet?

2012-01-26T14:43:00.005-05:00

Can't read? Visit the website or click the picture to zoom in. Click here to register

Schmoozefest II, members-only event

2012-01-25T15:28:00.001-05:00

Application: www.artsbrampton.ca/pdf/Schmoozefest2App.pdf

Thank you, BAB

2012-01-25T15:11:00.004-05:00

Brampton Arts
Council wants to thank
and illustrate Beaux-Arts
Brampton’s appreciation
earlier this month with
their letter to the
Brampton Guardian in
the January 18, 2012
edition.

HACE BoA 2011

2011-11-28T11:51:00.006-05:00

Thanks to everyone who participated in 2011’s HACE Business of the Arts Workshop weekend! It wouldn’t have been a success without you and our hard-working, gracious presenters.

Images are now up of this fantastic weekend. Keep on the look out for a video or two.

BramptonGuardian Article: HACE Business for the Arts weekend

2011-11-03T11:29:00.000-04:00

Uh oh! Another one of Brampton's secrets are out. Better book your workshops now before they're full. Check out the link below for the Brampton Guardian article on upcoming HACE workshops for next week!
BramptonGuardian Article: HACE Business for the Arts weekend

To the left: Featured HACE Presenter Cindy Church talks about her experiences as a classical musician in "Cindy Church, a musical journey" on the morning of Saturday, November 12, 2011. Find out more about the workshops and others: http://www.artsbrampton.ca/workshops.asp .

Social Network Anxiety? Try HACE Workshop Facebook Fearlessness!

2011-11-03T09:59:00.000-04:00

Facebook Fearlessness!
_{Building your on-line presence.}

Ever wondered how you could share your art and ideas with over 800 million people? One word, two syllables - Facebook. In today's world, one of the fastest and easiest ways to promote yourself and your work is to utilize the far reaching scope of the Internet and social media sites. But not everyone is as tech savvy as they would like to be and this fear of entering the realm of social media has caused many to miss opportunities to network and build connections with their audience. This session will review how you can use one of these sites, Facebook, to build your on-line presence, to connect with your audience, and to take advantage of online word-of-mouth. Learn the pro's and con's of using Facebook, general social media etiquette, and ways to promote your work to the widest audience.

Brampton Library's Jenny Omstead presents November 10, 2011 at 7:30 pm at the Brampton Golf Club for BAC's HACE Business of the Arts Workshop. See more workshops at http://www.artsbrampton.ca/workshops.asp

Be aware of...

2011-10-25T09:50:00.002-04:00

A new Ontario Arts Engagement Study points to opportunities for arts organizations to build audiences, which has numerous findings and ideas you might find interesting. While it refers to “professional” organizations, these findings and ideas are very relevant to all of you. http://www.arts.on.ca/Page4400.aspx
Marnie

Nov. 10, 11, 12, & 13 – HACE™ Business of the Arts Workshop Weekend

2011-10-18T11:56:00.006-04:00

BAC is honoured this year to have as one of our featured speakers musician Cindy Church, a creative force in a number of musical groups including Quartette and Lunch at Allen’s. Now living in Toronto, she has nt only acquired a national reputation as one of the best singers in the country, but an international one as well. Learn about her experiences in “Cindy Church, a musical journey”. Also meet and listen to Ted Outerbridge’s struggles as a performing magician in “29 Years of Survival – Magically”. The Brampton Arts Council’s HACE™ Business of the Arts Workshops will be held on marketing, business start-up, networking and more at the Brampton Golf Club (7700 Kennedy Rd. S., Brampton). For more details and/or to register Call 905-874-2919, email info@artsbrampton.ca or click on the following links to see a complete. FREE to Bramptonians. COURSE DESCRIPTION. http://www.artsbrampton.ca/workshops.asp

Update, Nov 1, 2011. HACE Presenter Ted Outerbridge has recently won Ontario Contact's Award of Excellence.

Getting ready for the 24th annual Mayor's Luncheon

2011-08-25T12:33:00.004-04:00

The Brampton Arts Council announces the details of the 24th Annual Mayor’s Luncheon for the Arts. Many of you may have already received your invitation to attend Brampton’s favourite luncheon. We invite you to join Mayor Susan Fennell, the Brampton Arts Council and members of the Art & Business community as we enjoy the cool sounds of singer, David Myles, celebrate King Tut’s Egypt and reveal the recipients of the Arts Person of the Year and Harry Dale Literary Grant. We hope to see you on stage at the Rose Theatre Brampton on Tuesday, September 20, 2011. There are a limited number of seats so order yours today! Call (905) 874-2919 or email info@artsbrampton.ca.

Pictured above is 2010’s recipient of the Arts Person of the Year, Kelly McNeil with BAC President Licia Vreugde.

AITO 2011 Opening Weekend

2011-06-22T15:10:00.002-04:00

So Art in the Open season has officially begun with a roar!

This weekend was packed with people for the IIFA (International Indian Film Academy) Buzz Brampton Festival. There was colours and performances to be seen, enticing smells from fresh, delicious goodies and people in all around good moods. Let’s hope the buzz carries forth for yet another weekend this June 25th, 2011.

Even though the BAC had a different location (Ken Whillans Square, in front of City Hall) for opening weekend, we still experienced community and customer support from those attending the Farmers’ Market. We’ll be returning to our regularly scheduled location in Garden Square this week and for the rest of the season.

June 25th’s part-time vendors are: Khruma, Amanda, Marcel & Becky. Don’t be afraid to come up to them and check out their goods. See more of our artists at www.artsbrampton.ca/aito.asp

Pictures will be up as soon as possible in our gallery.

Bravo Awards 2010-11 Recap

2011-06-14T16:48:00.010-04:00

A nervous but anticipatory energy fills the air just before 8pm on May 27, 2011. One could feel the excitement of those young and old waiting for the Rose Theatre Studio doors to open to the 10th annual Bravo! Awards.

Executive Director Marnie Richards welcomed the audience and nominees to the celebration, introducing Bravo’s MC’s and adjudicators: Susan Bourne, Trevor Copp and Jason Saunders. Our city’s fair councillor Sandra Hames read a small encouraging address to attendees.

Then in a special presentation and pleasant surprise, Richards thanked adjudicator Ron Cameron-Lewis for his long-time service to the BAC by bestowing a framed Derek Wicks’ print “Fleeting Heritage”.

Then it was time to consume the meat of any award ceremony, handing out the awards and recognizing nominees. We were honoured to have Brandon Moore (Theatre Ontario), Warren Garrett (CCI – Ontario Presenting Network), and Aaron Bloom, brother of the late David Bloom, presenting awards to the enthusiastic crowd.

For a list of nominees and winners, visit our website or click here.

After the ceremony, nominees, winners and audience members relaxed and gathered in the lobby of the Rose enjoying the delicious hors d'œuvres, tea and coffee served hot from Catering by Gregory’s while taking pictures and chatting amongst each other. To see some of those pictures, check out our gallery.

In the News...

2011-06-14T15:26:00.007-04:00

BAC has been featured recently in two of Brampton’s popular media pieces.

In Snap Brampton’s June 2011 issue, our AGM was featured.

The Brampton Guardian recently ran a story on our Bravo! Awards events featuring the winner of the David Bloom Award for Outstanding Achievement by a Juvenile, Julia Pulo (as seen below) for her role in Brampton Music Theatre's Annie.

Photo Credit: Ken Hay (bottom) & Kelly Lewars (top)

Schmooze Indeed!

2011-05-12T10:46:00.000-04:00

May 5th, 2011 proved to be a delightful day for those in the Brampton arts community assembling at the Brampton Golf Club for Schmoozefest. The Brampton Arts Council event brought member groups and individuals together to promote their talents, goals and upcoming events, while fostering connections and community among people. The 11 presenters effectively used their two minutes of time to not only promote but inform and entertain the 42 attendees of the event, maintaining energy in the room high and positive.

Attendees who didn’t present still had a chance to make an impression by making sure their brochures and business cards caught attention on the share table and of course mixing and mingling with others.

Schmoozefest was not only beneficial for those in attendance because of the shared information but because attendees got first crack at the next HACE Mini Series, presented by Rose Theatre’s Steve Solski on Cultural Mapping.

See more pictures of the event.

With condolences and sadness...

2011-04-27T16:19:00.010-04:00

It is our sad news to announce that Robert Raines, Brampton Symphony Orchestra’s maestro, passed the evening of April 16th, 2011. We offer condolences to his loved ones and will pass the information of arrangements on to our members when we know more.

BSO's Maestro Robert Raines & BAC's ED Marnie took a moment for a picture in 2005.

AGM, TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2011 - 7:30

2011-04-20T13:14:00.004-04:00

WRITTEN BY TERESA ALVES

The Annual General Meeting for BAC was held on Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at the Brampton City Council Chambers. Members were pleasantly greeted by staff at reception where they received information packages and directed into Chambers.

The meeting was called to order by BAC President Licia Vreugde’s opening speech and detailed Annual General Report. The Audited Financial Statements were thoroughly presented by Treasurer Rob Filkin and followed by Secretary Jessica Heath announcing the Nominated Slate of Directors for 2011.

General questions were answered and upon adjournment, everyone gathered for a short reception in the lounge where TK’s Catering awaited to serve hors d’oeuvres and appetizing sweets. While Peter Gibson of Green Door Graphics generously donated his time and poured refreshments for attendees, voices and laughter harmoniously blended with the strumming of latin jazz performed by Hot Club de Brampton.

Everyone got comfortable, schmoozed and networked, marking another productive and successful year. Enthusiasm and satisfaction was at the forefront in the room for not only the evening but hopefully a great way to begin BAC’s upcoming events for the year.
Find more pictures here.

March 26th 2011

2011-04-04T10:28:00.003-04:00

At 8:30 PM Saturday March 26th, 2011, a sudden hush descended on the crowded audience in the near darkness of Rose Theatre. Guest conducter Sabatino Vacca stepped onto stage with confidence and coat tails as he greeted the audience and began the business of music. The Brampton Arts Council Board and staff were on hand at Brampton Symphony Orchestra’s annual Earth Hour concert at the Rose Theatre to present this year’s Leon Argamasilla Bacardi Award of Excellence and enjoy the BSO’s musical talents. The Brampton Arts Council is also a sponsor of the Earth Hour concerts. Drawing young and old, the BSO commemorates Tschaikowsky while also celebrating the importance of the international Earth Hour phenomenon by turning off Rose Theatre’s lights for the first half of their concert. After intermission, the Brampton Arts Council formally presented hip hop dancer Jendayi Dyer with the Bacardi award. You can find out more about her here.

From 2011 Leon Bacardi Award/BSO Earth Hour Album

2011's Leon Argamailla Bacardi Award of Excellence Winner: Jendayi Dyer

2011-04-04T10:19:00.004-04:00

Jendayi Dyer is a member of Jade’s Hip Hop Academy’s competitive team as well as their Performance Company. Jendayi is a remarkable award-winning dancer and gifted performer. She has shown outstanding dedication to her craft and her hard work has led to the perfection of her techniques, skills and showmanship.

At just 15 years old, her ability to captivate and move an audience is extraordinary. If there is one number that people will remember from any performance or competition, it will be Jendayi’s. She began her training at the age of 11. By the time she was 12, a solo artist had been born. Her first solo achieved great success in the competition circuit. At 13 years of age, she was given a challenge to embody various musical instruments throughout a new solo titled Musician.

Jendayi’s ability to grasp the depth of her character won her numerous awards, including all first place standings and many “overalls”. An “overall” award is the highest scoring routine out of all solos in any genre in any particular age category. This is not an easy feat and typically hip hop solos do not win against ballet, jazz, tap or lyrical, yet Jendayi has achieved winning “overalls” many times.

Jendayi is a role model at the Academy where she spends on average four to five days per week. Many of the dancers older and younger look up to her and admire her for her abilities and commitment. She also spends time volunteering as a Teacher assistant and student teacher in their pre-competitive and recreational classes. She plays a critical leadership role instructing the dancers and her Artistic Director is teaching her to choreograph as well.

What is additionally remarkable is that not only is Jendayi a talented and successful dancer she suffers from severe Asthma. This does not stop her from giving every practice and every performance 110%. Jendayi has proven she has a fighting spirit and that she will forever continue to pursue excellence. With her proven talent, volunteerism and her ability to overcome adversity, Jendayi Dyer is a perfect recipient of the Leon Argamasilla Bacardi Award of Excellence.

Annual General Meeting 2011

2011-03-17T10:54:00.003-04:00

We just finished our Board of Trade “After Business” event last night but keep alert, members! Brampton Arts Council is still on the move with our Annual General Meeting less than two weeks away. The meeting is in City Hall Council Chambers, 4th Floor on 2 Wellington Street West on March 29th. Registration starts at 7 p.m. Meeting begins promptly at 7:30pm. Free parking is in the City Hall parking garage below. Join us after for light refreshments and entertainment by the Brampton Folk Club. It’s important to know what the Council has accomplished for 2010 and see what’s up for this year.

Award of Excellence Reminder

2011-03-02T13:55:00.004-05:00

DEADLINE FOR NOMINATION SUBMISSIONS IS TOMORROW MARCH 3rd, 2011. This is the time to get those packages completed and submitted at the office. This is the second year that the Brampton Arts Council is accepting applications for the 2nd Annual Leon Bacardi Award of Excellence. Last year Brampton Theatre School’s Wes Payne received the award. He was the first in the tradition to be presented the award at the Brampton Symphony Orchestra’s Earth Hour concert. This year that honour will be bestowed on someone March 26, 2011.

Eligibility Requirements:
• Under 18 years of age
• Currently affiliated with any BAC member group in good standing for a minimum of 1 year
• Nominated by any BAC member group in good standing
• Groups can nominate more than one person
• Have not previously won the award
• Accomplished an outstanding achievement in any arts discipline
• Include your nomination form with back-up documentation (newspaper clippings, video, other media or references)

Applications are now available and will be reviewed by an ad hoc committee. For further info, please contact the Executive Director at mrichards@artsbrampton.ca or (905) 874-2919.

BAC President Licia Vreugde and Executive Director Marnie Richards congratulate BTS’s Wes Payne on his honour.

All Business

2011-03-02T13:36:00.014-05:00

This month, the Brampton Arts Council hosts & sponsors the Brampton Board of Trade’s monthly occurrence of After Business. Mark the date of March 16th, 2011 from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm at Rose Theatre. This is a fantastic opportunity for artists and business person alike to find out the services and products the BAC and members of the arts community have to offer not only Brampton’s business community but Brampton. Check out these pictures from last year’s smashing success.

A Success To Its Max!

2011-02-15T13:52:00.007-05:00

From SOCAN: a HACE(TM) Mini Series

The Brampton Arts Council was pleased to host an over filled room with attentive musicians and music fans alike, eager to learn and update themselves with the latest information from Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN).The seminar, presented by the knowledgeable Rodney Murphy, SOCAN’s Education & Outreach Manager was held this past Tuesday, February 8th at the Brampton Golf Club. This was the first HACE Mini Series held this year.

Murphy kept the room uplifted with his humorous character focusing on the importance of becoming a member of SOCAN and how to protect musician’s rights and earn residuals in music artistry. During his carefully planned and thorough presentation, Murphy answered questions from enthusiastic participants, with a definite note of experience and passion for the business. Rodney discussed SOCAN’s status as a non-profit organization that is kept alive to ensure the proper distribution of funds among well-deserved artists, song writers and musicians.

In conclusion, everyone left more informed, motivated to improve their existing status and looking forward to future HACE workshops, Mini or otherwise. See more images from the workshop here

_{Written and photographed by Teresa Alves.}

Brampton Arts Council out in the community

2011-02-02T12:53:00.001-05:00

The Brampton Arts Council will be participating in the Sports & Leisure Show at Shoppers World this week on February 5th, 2011 from 9 am – 3 pm. Find our booth, get information on what's happening out in our arts community and meet & greet the BAC staff on hand for the event.

Blog Transformation Activate!

2011-01-18T13:21:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone:

We here at the BAC are transforming the blog’s purpose and making it solely for the use of the Brampton Arts Council. We want to widen our internet audience, so our news, events, and opportunities – not just for youth – will be placed here and shared with you. Hope you enjoy the change of your local blog programming.

Thanks,
The BAC staff

Teen Author Readings

2011-01-18T10:09:00.003-05:00

CALLING ALL TEENS TO SHOWCASE YOUR WRITING!
Share your original stories, poems, writings, and musical compositions with the Brampton community.

Teen Author Readings
Thursday, February 17, 2011
at Four Corners Branch
6:00 to 8:00 pm

Teen Author Readings encourage and inspire published and budding teen authors to share their work. The evening promises magnificent presentations from aspiring and talented young writers and music composers, as they share their original poems, short stories, essays, skits, songs and musical compositions. Writers are encouraged to not only present in English but also other languages of their preference and proficiency.

Please contact Surita Dey at 905-793-4636 x4354 or email at sdey@bramlib.on.ca by January 31, 2011

Some advice

2011-01-17T12:23:00.005-05:00

jkdcanada has left a new comment on your post OPEN MIC!:

Hello!

To anyone that might actually read this. I'm looking for an open mic comedy night some where near the Brampton or Mississauga area. I know there is quite a few in Toronto, but I wouldn't mind something closer to home. Any suggestions from some organizers or comedians that have been to an open mic that they like would be much appreciated!

My response:
Here's what I did find that's within the area, ranging from Etobicoke to Mississauga. As with any information you're given, verify it before taking it as a given.

Noceri's
Open Mike (music, comedy)
Every Wednesday at 7pm
Hosted by James Anthony
182 Browns Line
Etobicoke, ON
416-251-3848
Src: http://comedy.openmikes.org/listings/noceris

THE ENFIELD FOX
Tel: 905-566-1355
I spoke to a couple of people at the Fox and there's a lot of confusion in regards to open mic spots for comedians. So I'll just give you what I found:

~~There's also a comedian night on Tuesday's. One person told me that it was an open mic. Another person told me it wasn't. So you can take your chances with that and see what happened.~~
Modified update (January 18th, 2011): Spoke to one of the organizers and he clarified URBAN NIGHT COMEDY(Click on the link for more information.) at the Enfield Fox EVERY TUESDAY. To register for the event, email: urbannight@canumakemlaugh.com

For any further information, please contact me directly @ kelly@artsbrampton.ca.

Secret BONUS:
Open mic for musicians on every 2nd Wednesday At THE ENFIELD FOX (285 Enfield Place)
Cover: $5
Hours: 6.30pm - 10.30pm
Age: 19+
Vibe: Live Bands
Src: http://toronto.beforelastcall.com/nightclubs-mississauga-639-the_enfield_fox.html
Src: http://www.enfieldfox.com/events.php

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-01-11T12:29:00.008-05:00

On the horizon:
The Leon Argamasilla Bacardi Award of Excellence Nomination forms are now available. The Brampton Arts Council is now accepting applications for the 2nd Annual Leon Argamasilla Bacardi Award of Excellence. Leon Argamasilla Bacardi was our Vice-President for a number of years. Leon not only helped the Art Council but many charities throughout the GTA. This award is presented annually to a youth, under 18, for an outstanding achievement in the arts in any discipline. The recipient must be currently affiliated with any BAC membership group in good standing for a minimum of 1 year. Nominations are to come from BAC member groups. For further information, please contact the Executive Director at mrichards@artsbrampton.ca or (905) 874-2919.

DROP IN MONDAYS – 7pm-10pm – FREE Improv Classes for ages 14 – 24 at Malton Community Centre, 3540 Morningstar Drive. For more information email: malton.mirror@rogers.com or call 416-902-7136.

ONLY A FEW DAYS LEFT! Dec. 12 – Jan. 16th – “Runs in the Family” – Visual Arts Brampton Artway Gallery at Shoppers World, 499 Main St. S. Contact Keith Moreau for details at 905-453-9142.
Friday, January 21st – Jade’s Hip Hop Academy presents “Meant to be at Dance weekend ‘11”. Click on image for more details and to enlarge. :)

Wednesday, February, 9, 2011.Cyril Clark Lecture Hall is holding a Client Open House from 6 to 9 pm. Snacks will be provided. 20 Loafer's Lake Lane, Brampton, ON L6Z 1X9.

Saturday February 12th, 2011 Express Your Music Presents..."A Night of Guitar" Featuring Michael Angelo Batio and Dave Martone, an exciting night with 2 guitar greats, also featuring up and coming young Brampton Guitarists. Cyril Clark Library Lecture Hall Theatre; $35 per ticket www.myrosetheatre.ca. Call Rose Theatre 905-874-2844 or The Rock School - 905-487-1425 www.therockschool.ca Sponsored by: The Rock School, Brampton Arts Council, Mayor Susan Fennell and Tim Hortons .

Event Stuffing!

2010-10-27T13:43:00.001-04:00

‘TRUE HAUNTED TOUR’ (Learn where the ghosts live in this neighbourhood) Saturday, October 30th, 2010. 8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Start at Ward’s Funeral Home parking lot, (52 Main Street South, Brampton) and end at the Brampton Arts Council parking lot (24-A Alexander St). $10 cash only. Free parking at City Hall or Rose Theatre. Steve Collie wil be the tour leader.

YAAV Festival"Join us anytime between 5 - 8 pm at ECLYPSE Drop-In Centre (71 West Drive - Unit 21, Brampton). Come and enjoy youth art and live entertainment." Brought to you by Youth Arts Against Violence.

Saturday, November 6 - Mayfield Secondary School Proudly Presents “The Wedding Singer” Gala Dinner Theatre at Mayfield Secondary School, 5000 Mayfield Road, Caledon. For more information.

RENT, Nov 11 -14 (Rated PG – 13) from $24.00 This rock opera tells the story of one year in the life of a group of bohemians struggling in modern day East Village, New York. The story centres on Mark and Roger, two roommates. While a former tragedy has made Roger numb to life, Mark tries to capture it through his attempts to make a film. In the year that follows, the group deals with love, loss, AIDS, and modern day life in one truly powerful story. Presented by Brampton Music Theatre.

HACE Business of the Arts Workshops More about HACE here: COURSE DESCRIPTION.

Join BAF Saturday, November 20th from 9am-4pm at The Rose Theatre for the start of your holiday shopping for the Brampton Arts & Crafts Festival! A great opportunity to purchase some one-of-a-kind items to give, or as a gift for yourself! We have potters, jewellers, glass artists, woodworkers, painters, hand-made soaps, knit items, unique items and so much more. Embrace the holiday experience. Bring along an item or two for our food drive. Join in for some caroling, hot chocolate and a visit with Santa too before he starts his parade! Admission and parking are FREE. To find out more visit http://www.bramptonartfair.com/.

Sunday November 21st, 2010 at 11am in Shoppers World – Winners Court. - Time for Some Holiday Fun! Shoppers World Brampton Annual Christmas Parade. Get creative, get loud and get in costume!! For more information, please contact Christina Sardella at csardella@riocan.com or Penny Karas at pkaras@riocan.com.

Friday, Dec. 3rd, 7:30 pm – Heart Lake United Church presents…The Toronto All-Star Big Band in “A Christmas Special” (85 Sandalwood Pkwy. East, Brampton). Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Call 905-846-7314 Mon.-Thurs. 9am to 2 pm).

FREE IMPROV CLASSES!

Brampton Day Festivities!

2010-09-30T10:34:00.015-04:00

I had a great time this Saturday at Brampton Day in the Community Village!

The City of Brampton did it up by creating various spaces, activities and fee goodies for all those who wanted to celebrate in Brampton’s amenities. They took over most of downtown; from Gage Park to City Hall to Rose Theatre.

We at the BAC were so busy at our tent in Gage Park that it felt like we had just got there by the time we packed up. Accompanying our tent, was the Graphic Novel of the Arts. A kind of open mic round robin concert we put on with artists ranging from spoken word poetry to finger picking blues to dance and of course, singing. Thanks to all those participated with performance or volunteering. We appreciate your time, effort and expression. For more pictures, click here.

What about you? Tell us about your experience with Brampton Day. What was your best memory of the celebration? Mine was the cake. ;) :)

Literary Stuffing: New Group & Grant Deadline

2010-08-26T13:17:00.004-04:00

When I was a younger me and thus an extra curricular enthusiast, I was part of the writing group at my school. Ironically called ‘Writer’s Block’ it was a small, semi-tight group of teenage poets and writers who fervently pursued the literary art form. It was awesome not only because it was a space to read my works aloud, but because it was a community of peers to read to where I got honest, open feedback that wasn’t from supporting friends and family who don’t really want to hurt me. Constructive criticism hurts at first but it’s what anyone needs to become better at what they do and in turn you learn and pass on the lessons you learn. I’m not sure where you go now outside of school if you’re a young writer wanting to get in on that kind of experience. Or rather I wasn’t sure until I got some notice a couple of days ago:

YOUTH WRITERS CLUB

Brampton Library’s Youth Writers Club is starting on September 9, 2010 and running until May 12, 2011.

If you are a secondary school student interested in writing short stories, essays, novels, poetry,
and/or other forms of literature you are invited to join the Club!

At monthly meetings, you and your peers will bring your original writings for peer
editing and group appreciation. Facilitators from the Brampton Writer’s Workshop
and teachers from local Secondary Schools will provide guidance in the art of
writing and different literary techniques to help you further develop your
writing skills. Guest writers from the community will occasionally be invited to
share their knowledge and experience.

Club meetings will be held at Four Corners Branch (65 Queen St. E), from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. There is no cost to join the Club; but registration is required. Register in person at any library
location, by phone at 905-793-4636, or by email to sdey@bramlib.on.ca.

Registration begins Monday, August 16.

In other news, you have less than a week left to hand in your application package for the Harry Dale Literary Grant for Aspiring Writers. Young and old have applied for the award, last year Lori-Ann Russell was of the younger side and the first to receive the honour. This year who’s saying it couldn’t be you?

What are you doing on Michael Cera day?

2010-08-11T15:47:00.013-04:00

Only two more days before the awesomeness of Scott Pilgrim and Michael Cera collide into epicness! :D In case you’ve lived under a rock for the past 5 years, this is Michael Cera. He’s not only Canadian but a Bramptonian who broke out in ‘the little show that could’ called Arrested Development. He’s currently best known as the poster boy for awkward geeky adultdom and will put a distinct butt-kicking edge to that persona this Friday in the Edgar Wright epic of epic epicness “Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World”. For those who have lived under a rock for the past 3 months, this_{(close the picture to see the article)} is Stadium: a Brampton comic book store that has promoted the heck out of openly inviting Michael Cera to join in the impromptu day celebrating him. See more about it here or here or here.

If geek culture references, shiny effects and gravity-defying fight scenes aren’t enough to entice you, consider the sound track and music score. The eclectic talents of Beck fuel the sound of Pilgrim’s band, which by the way was coached on how to play their instruments by another Canadian, Chris Murphy of iconic band Sloan. Other awesome Canadiana lending their talents in some way or another is Plumtree, Metric, Broken Social Scene and Kid Koala. Not Canadian but still awesome? I mention you now Black Lips, Cornelius, Dan the Automator.

So again, I ask: What are you doing August 13th, 2010 on Michael Cera Day?

This Friday I plan to sit down and begin my Scott Pilgrim journey in a rather puritanical fashion - with the comics by Bryan Lee O’Malley, also Canadian. Movie will come quite quickly after I assume. :) So exciting!

For a quick synopisis of Michael Cera and other successful (and/or famous) Bramptionians, visit the BAC’s success stories.
_{Tee hee. Me as a Scott Pilgrim character. (Check out the gloves!)}

Reading, Rock, Canadiana & History

2010-06-17T09:19:00.004-04:00

So on the cusp of summer and I have some things to fill those idle hours before you’re dragging your feet and heading back to school.

Beatles Rock Band Competition
Hey Jude! WANTED! 30 teams of three to compete on stage in a Beatles Rockband Contest on Saturday July 17th 2010 from 2pm to 5pm in Downtown Brampton's Gage Park. To enter, contact Jenny Floras at the BDDC: jenny.oras@brampton.ca. $15 Per Group . Entry Fee Donated to the William Olser Health Centre Foundation. Classic Cars & Legendary Stars Contest . Win Great Prizes! Have Fun and Help a Great Cause! 905.874.3652

Building on last summer’s success, the Library is continuing the online TEEN SUMMER READING CHALLENGE from June 1 to August 29, 2010.
The challenge is to read 1 MILLION pages by Brampton teens, 13 to 19 years of age.
Not individually but together. Teens can read any book of their choice and enter online for a chance to win a weekly prize. They can read as many books as they want and enter the number of pages each time they finish a book by clicking on Add/View Log after signing in. Participants can read fiction and non-fiction books both in print and digital formats. Audiobooks, graphic novels, manga and comic books can also be included. Each entry increases their opportunity to win. Winners will be selected by random draw each week. This summer, two grand prizes have been added, one for the highest number of pages read and another grand prize for the highest number of reviews posted.
Please visit the Youth page http://bramptonlibrary.ca/youth/index.php on library’s website for full information.

Paul Hunt Bursary Award - $500 Reward is open to any student who is a resident of Brampton, graduating from a public or separate secondary school with the Region of Peel and who has been accepted into an accredited Canadian post-secondary institution and who intends to major in Canadian history or related subjects. See detail at www.bramptonhistoricalsociety.com/bursary.htm
Brampton Canada Day Celebrations! July 1st, 2010 @ Powerade Centre
Family and friends, join us for an action-packed day of fun and excitement with a Midway, Circus, Monster Truck Rides, FMX and more! Enjoy live entertainment on 4 stages including the Main Stage featuring Massari, Big Sugar (with the original line-up!) and Finger Eleven. The kids stage will feature a performance by Max & Ruby and a Meet & Greet with Shrek! A spectacular fireworks display choreographed to music will begin at 10PM. Canada Day Celebrations will be held at the Powerade Centre (7575 Kennedy Road South). There is no parking on site. Plan to ride the FREE shuttle service, walk or bike to the event. Area road closures will be in effect from 10:00am to midnight.

Finally, please note that I’m stopping my routine Facebook Mondays. If you want to communicate with me, I’d love an email Kelly [at!] artsbrampton.ca.

Event Forecast....

2010-05-18T13:20:00.002-04:00

Here’s what’s what for the next little while in Brampton for youth in the arts:

May 17th & June 14th. Anime-Manga club meeting. 4: 30 – 6:30 pm. If you’re a Teen and enjoy manga, this Free, drop-in club is for you! More info here . South Fletcher’s Branch. For more information call (905) 793-4636 or TTY: 1-866-959-9994

May 26th to 29th. Tin Pan North, 11 Annual Songwriters Festival held by the NSAI’s Toronto chapter. For more info, check out the website.

Fri, May 28 – 30th. Rent - School Edition! See here for times. Lester B Pearson Theatre. Brampton Theatre School’s Sr. Young Company is proud to present Jonathan Larson's Pulitzer-prize winning Broadway musical based loosely on Puccini's opera La Bohème. Contact – Lester B. Pearson Theatre Box Office Ticket price(s) - $20 Adults, $20 Seniors and $15. 905-793-4600. bramptontheatreschool@live.com or website for more info.

June 6th, 2010. The Rock School’s Spring Concert. 3-6 pm. Caesar’s Event Centre, 12495 Hwy 5, Bolton, Ontario. The Rock School presents youth Performing Vocal, Guitar, Drums and Piano. Tickets Cost: $30 ; Admission, Food & Drink included in ticket price. Contact Andrea Gavrilovic by phone 905-487-1425 or email contact@therockschool.ca. Don’t forget their website

June 13th. HAIRSPRAY! 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Central Peel Theatre, 32 Kennedy Rd. N. Performed by Synergy Performing Academy. Call (905) 791-6997 or email academy.main@synergy-brampton.com for more info.

June 24th to 26th. Beauty and the Beast Jr. Check website for times. Brampton Theatre School’s Jr. Young Company is proud to present Beauty and the Beast Jr. Lester B. Pearson Theatre. Contact Box Office for tickets. $16 Adults, $12 Seniors and Students. Phone – 905-793-4600 Email – bramptontheatreschool@live.com Website – www.bramptontheatreschool.com

June 26th, 2010. Youth Day Brampton Concert Day. 5 pm. Rose Garden Square. If interested in performing, contact youthdaybrampton@intercontinentalgem.com. Any musical genre ages 14-24 living in southern Ontario, must bring their own instrument if needed. CD of performance required. Michael Williams.... Guest Host - Jay Martin. With featured personalities of Canada's Original VJ/ Nina Hallie Dixon "In the loop”. Check website www.igemtoronto.com or www.youthdaybrampton.com

June 27th, 2010. Rock Band Summer Jam. 4 – 7 pm. Bands from The Rock School Band Program Perform. Ticket price and place are to be announced later. Check website for more info. Andrea Gavrilovic, Tel: 905-487-1425. Web: www.therockschool.ca OR contact@therockschool.ca

OPEN MIC NIGHT!

2010-04-27T10:55:00.004-04:00

YEAH! There's an Open Mic being held by Music with Momentum this Friday. Come on out and support local artists and our art scene. More details can be found here or try here.

Why you should volunteer at the Brampton Arts Council

2010-04-26T12:58:00.008-04:00

It's that time of the year! We here at the office are gearing up for another season of Art in the Open interviewing potential vendors to sell their beautiful goods and art works. I'm enjoying it immensely and simultaneously seeking volunteers to help the team for Art in the Open 2010. What does this help involve exactly?

For those who enjoy being outside, Art in the Open is an event we run with the City's Farmer's Market every Saturday from 7 am – 1 pm. It allows member artists and artisans to showcase and sell their works from needlepoint to sculpture from photography to t-shirt and other interesting items. We need help setting up in the morning, manning the Council's booth, taking down our booth at the end of the day. Sounds like quite a work load however; each volunteer usually has a little time to themselves to check out what's new at the market.

Coincidentally, this volunteer talk comes at a convenient time. Last month, I gave a small presentation to the Teen Library Council (TLC, such a lovely acronym) on why volunteering with the Arts Council is a good idea.

If you've ever wondered how and where the arts and administration combine, this would be the place and arts administration would be the game. First off, being an artist is not a requirement, though it can come in handy.

There are a lot of reasons why you should choose to volunteer with us:
1. We'd like to get to know you, your thoughts and ideas - What do you enjoy doing around town? What do you wish there was more of?
2. You have an opportunity to learn the nitty-gritty (what exactly the Arts Council does).
3. You can use your talents and channel your interest where they are needed. For example:
4. If you like looking for information online, there may be projects that require research.
5. Are you fast, efficient & accurate on the keyboard? Data entry could be your thing.
6. Are you electronically apt? Do you enjoy working with digital photos and videos? You can help organize, format and upload our digital photo albums or edit video footage.
7. Are you soothed and satisfied engaging in simple, repetitive tasks? Perfect! An integral part of office operations includes stuffing envelopes, posting mail, collating mail-outs.
8. Do you have a vehicle and like to meet people? You deliver our Arts Guides.

I think you get the picture. Let us know what your interest is and we will find something to match. With interest, comes your pay out in knowledge. That knowledge can come from anywhere when you are open minded - general administrative duties, research or interviewing staff about their experiences. Plus, the Arts Council is willing to verify the work you put into volunteering.

If you are still not sure about what experience you want to have, check out our website www.artsbrampton.ca. The website is an awesome place To stART lookINg. You’ll see THEre are so many options OPEN to you!

Music with Momentum, April Events and Welcome volunteers

2010-04-08T11:43:00.004-04:00

I had a really awesome time a couple of weeks ago at Music with Momentum’s screening “A Look at Teen Mental Health”. We were a lead partner in their pursuit of a grant so we were there to support their doings. Their short seriously examined the symptoms and varieties of depression. It wasn’t only a screening of the film short that organizers David and Steve put together themselves but a concert with bands coming as far as Sudbury to perform. There were free snacks and drinks and generally jovialities. Check out the pictures here and the videos on the YouTube are to be uploaded as soon as I can.

In additional news, events you should look out for the next little while include:

Brampton Music Theatre performs "Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" at The Rose Theatre from April 8th to the 10th at Rose Theatre. Check www.bramptonmusictheatre.com for more details.

Brampton Library begins their series of nine Toastmasters workshops for youth 14 to 18 this April 10th, 2010. “Learn how to: overcome the nervousness everyone feels when asked to speak before an audience; organize & present your ideas logically & convincingly; deliver short impromptu & prepared speeches; listen carefully to others' ideas; offer advice that will help others improve their speaking & leadership skills; and more!” REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Limited space. Email: sdey@bramlib.on.ca for more information. Four Corners Library.

April 16th, 2010 @ 8:00 pm - Sheridan College Music Theatre Performance Students perform music from that darn perky, catchy television show “GLEE”. Call Rose Theatre at 905-874-2800 for tickets or details.

Also a very late but enthusiastic welcome to our two reliable volunteers that have become familiar faces in our little home. Big ups to Aaron Galera and Aneesa Ibrahim! :) We really appreciate your help.

Eklektika? I likey!

2010-02-22T11:16:00.010-05:00

I attempted the panorama goodness again, using Paint to stitch them all together. This is actually about 7 pictures.

Amazing. Interesting. Expression. All words the young artists themselves used to describe the experience of Eklektika, an independent arts festival put together by Treeline Public students. The nouns and adjectives don't even come close to expressing the momentous force of organization and beauty situated at Beaux-Arts Brampton from the 9th to the 13th.

I didn't have any expectations when arriving just before 8 p.m. for the gala that Thursday (the 11th). As I walked up to the doors of BAB, I quickly realized that maybe a few expectations were key. First because a slew of others DID have expectations and the place was packed full of students, parents, siblings and loved ones watching the performances and checking out the art works and secondly, because the energy and support were contagious. If you weren't careful with that atmosphere, a person could go crazy with the giddiness.

Once managing to scoot my way forward past the doors where performers were on stage I was able to see so many different things, so much other hard work and creativity everywhere. I don't know where to begin to express it but maybe I don’t have to do it all. That’s what pictures are for. There was the ipod wall, where students had each expressed their I-ness and did it in the style of the ever so popular commercials, utilizing silhouettes. There were eerie landscapes and portraits. Almost set up like a fancy cake, there were pretty lil' pinch pots. Sugar skulls gave props to El Dias de los Muerto (The Day of the Dead) while African masks contrasted and the students composed an Anti-Vandalization Graffiti wall. Surprisingly, my favourite work was the plastic bag princess dresses. I was surprised not because of the skill made to craft it but because I generally don't tend to feel synchronized to fashion; yet, reworking and beautifying the mundane of plastic bags is always awesome. It gets me thinking...

I have pictures and video, performance and interviews with some of the students and one Ms. Goyeau. I've posted the pictures here; but the video's going to have to wait. I want to give special props to Leah-Ann Goyeau who was the prime teacher who helped the students put this event together and is one of our members here at the Council. Bravo, Leah-Ann! :)

I'm interested to hear what those who attended, or anyone for that matter, thought of the event or specific works. If you wrote a blog entry about your experience, post the link. :) Sharing can be good. :)

You have 26 days to complete your challenge...

2010-02-02T10:23:00.004-05:00

Starting today, you have only 26 days left to shake yourself off and get out to the Peel Heritage Complex to take in the visual culture, historical heritage and concrete records of Peel Region. After February 28^th, 2010, the Peel Heritage Complex is closed for over a year while renovations pursue expansions and revitalization. Re-opening is expected to happen in the fall of 2011. So take it all in while you can.... and because I said so. :) In case that's not enough, consider FREE days for the Complex are the 15th and 28th.

What you have to look forward to in 2011...

Photo Credit: Goldsmith Borgal & Company Archietects

Long time coming....

2010-01-25T14:24:00.007-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Well, you might say it’s a bit late for such gestures but in my opinion you’re generally good for the first month of the year in doing the auld lang syne1. I wonder what etiquette dictates is the appropriate protocol? This is negligible.

So here’s the deal, I’m going to try post more often on this blog. I can’t promise but I’ll certainly put forth more of an effort even if it seems like nothing. I take photographs of things I find around this gosh-darn town. Perhaps I’ll post them with my imaginative ramblings and inquiries or perhaps pop culture and arts reviews/critiques. What do you think? I started this blog thinking people would tell me about things they were wondering that everyone else was wondering in conjunction with Brampton, arts and youth and there was something there initially but it seems to have died out. So putting a little more effort will hopefully work to everyone’s advantage.

Here are different events that are coming up that you might be interested in attending around town:

February 6th & 20th, 2010 – I’m pretty sure "the youth" know Facebook pretty well at least when you’re trying to keep in touch with people but what about shameless self-promotion? Facebook workshops on Page basics and intermediate are @ Chinguacousy Library, presented as part of the new HACE Mini Series. Check out the BAC calendar in February for more details. 9:30 am – 12:00 pm.

Feb. 9 - 13, 2010 Treeline Public School students, staff, family and friends exhibit their talents using a variety of media. Gala Reception: Thursday, February 11th, 2010 from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm.www.beaux-artsbrampton.com A celebration of Treeline's diversity and artistic talent, Intermediate students will be showcasing an eclectic collection of artwork and performance art ranging from animation to sculpture to mummy raps to acrylic on canvas.

February 18th, 2010 - Teen Author Readings at Four Corners Branch from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Teen Author Readings encourages and inspires published and budding teen authors to share their works. The evening promises magnificent presentations from aspiring and talented young writers and music composers, as they share their original poems, short stories, essays and musical compositions. Writers are encouraged not only to read in English but other languages of their choice.

February 21st, 2010 – Music with Momentum presents Youth Taking Action 2010, an all ages community music event and fundraiser in recognition of Family Day. Featuring David Metcalfe and guests, the event runs at the Rose from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. Pre-Ordered Tickets for $5. At Door for $20. Email david@416yourock.com for more info.

Not really an event so much as an opportunity. Submission Deadline: March 6, 2010. CALL FOR ARTISTS to participate in the 3rd ANNUAL OPEN JURIED SHOW presented by Beaux-Arts Brampton. Over $1, 000.00 in CASH Prizes. March 30 – April 24, 2010. Visit site for details: http://www.beaux-artsbrampton.com/exhibitions.php?exId=167

March 6th, 2010 at 8:00 pm The City of Brampton Concert Band will close its very successful 2009/2010 125th Anniversary Concert Series with a gaze towards the deep realms of space, presenting "2010: A Space Odyssey"at the Rose Theatre. Ticket prices are Adults $20, Seniors and Students $18 and Children 12 and under $10. For more information on our organization and other upcoming concerts and events in 2010 please visit our website, http://www.bramptonconcertband.com.

March 27, 2010. 8: 30 pm. The Brampton Symphony Orchestra presents ‘The popular Earth Hour flashlight concert with low lights, brilliant soloists and spectacular showpieces from stage screen and concert hall’ at the Rose. See website for more details, http://www.bramptonsymphony.com.

Last but surely not least, Visual Arts Brampton galleries through February and March are “Special Arrangements” (still-lifes) and “making faces” (portraits) at Artway in Shoppers World. For more details, check out VAB’s site: http://www.visualartsbrampton.com/artway.htm

Did you make a resolution? What was/is it? Are you still holding strong, is it done or did you fails!? (You can try, try again, ya know.)

For the love of Sarasvati, None and Brigid!

2009-11-26T15:14:00.011-05:00

I've been so crazed, busy and the like that I haven't got a chance to review the Business of Arts Workshops that happened not this past weekend but the weekend before but know that IwillIwillIwill get to it. It's not just words but video to edit and photos to prettify but as soon as I do, I will post it whole. I wouldn't want to jip you. :( ;) My attentions have been assigned elsewhere for the moment here at the BAC so that's been my first concern.

In other news...
BAC and I are on Facebook, in case you didn't know. Add me. If you have any questions, just ask me there. I know sometimes Facebook is much more the medium people use to communicate than... email, IM and the like. I'm more often than not signed in on Mondays from 10 am to 4 pm so don't be shy. Say hello, chat, ask me who Brigid is, whatevs.

DIY!!!

2009-10-27T15:39:00.013-04:00

One thing I'm surprised that I love doing is helping people with their arts community questions. (Why so surprised, Kelly? I don't know. I'm introverted not introspective! :P) Mayhaps it's the thrill of digging for information, using my smarts to piece together a whackamole game [1] of info or contacting and talking to new people. I had to do quite a bit of research to come up with my last post and Brampton's open. Perhaps the spirit of DIY (Do it Yourself) is not as dead as I thought. People out there are getting it done and my thoughts have been re-ignited by the self-sufficient acronym and staple of punk subculture. Is there something you wish Brampton had in the way of arts entertainment and community? Stop wishing. Start doing!

What I didn't write about was another young man's initiative to put together a Brampton Indie Music Festival, asking me where to begin. I've decided to leave an extremely mini version of the tips I gave him on handling such a feat that could easily be used by anyone to put together any event.

1. Start with WHY and WHAT. Get a clear idea in your head of what it is you intend to do and the goals you want to accomplish whether it's fundraising, fostering community, promotions, awareness, etc. If you can't figure that out try beginning with what you don't want and it might become clearer. Contact those who have experience setting up similar events and see if they’re willing to advise from past experiences. A smaller but still significant WHAT to consider is what you need. Do you need a sound system? How much will it cost? Will your venue supply one? Will they supply the sound guy with one?
2. Once that's done, the real fun begins. Start with WHEN because you're going to need to book dates for venues (sometimes WHEN and WHERE work together) and a stop date for community involvement/applicants. Decide/estimate how long your event will be. Research other events around your time that could divide your audience
3. Location, location, location! WHERE will you hold your event. Consider the audience and previous events/shows at the your possible venue. Is it a good fit? Can you promote at nearby businesses?
4. WHO: Not just who is performing or displaying their work but WHO is working for you. VOLUNTEERS. Depending on how big your event is, you will need dependable, have-your-back help.
5. Never ever forget COST though: how much will things be. Keep a running tally and start to put together a budget. You might need community help through sponsors or charging attendees. Don't forget to give them proper accolades for doing so, whether it's through advertising their name on a banner and/or flyers, or spoken thanks your event.
6. Last (you thought I was done but I was not!) but certainly not least is the HOW. Our site has a list of media for anyone to use to get word out on events they're planning and of course you know about Facebook, MySpace and Twitter as promotional devices but also try the more obscure or local websites to get things abuzzing (NOW, the City of Brampton website, Snap Brampton, Brampton Guardian, etc.). Don't forget the power of in person meetings. Get out there, promote and talk up your audience.

Hopefully this was a helpful outline, peeps. Comments, questions, suggestions? Hit me up: kelly@artsbrampton.ca.

1. A whackamole game as in every time you think I'm done I pop back up with new info.

For real?! What the?

2009-10-11T15:02:00.006-04:00

I had a guy, Kurt Arruda of the rap group Diablos Rejects, ask me this week where to go for open mics locally. When you live in Brampton and you want to perform, it's a bit of a hassle to get your butt down to Toronto all the time, especially when you don't have wheels. While I'm not sure if the rap they do would be entirely cohesive to the open mics, I had heard of one place down on Queen to perform but I didn't quite know where or the details. So I asked some local artists what was up and where to go. I was shocked because there are at least six places locally to go:

Monday Night:
9:30 pm - ?
The Harp - JAM NIGHT. A little farther out than the other places but it's the first in the series.
55 Lakeshore Road East
Port Credit, ON
(905) 274-3277

Wednesday Night:
9:30 pm - 12 am
Tracks BrewPub
60 Queen Street East
Brampton, ON
(905) 453-3063‎

9:00 pm - 1, 2 am
Brewsters Roadhouse & Restaurant
400 Steeles Avenue East
Brampton, ON
(905) 456-2093‎

Thursday Night:
9-10 pm - 1, 2 am
Allstars Bar & Grill
73 Bramalea Road
Brampton, ON
(905) 791-2315‎

9:30 pm - 1 am
Apple Jacks Restaurant
2225 Erin Mills Parkway
Mississauga, Ontario
(905) 403 0700

Last but not least an Open Mic night on October 20th, 2009. (Tuesday) at Metalworks Institute of Sound and Music Sign up begins at 6:30 but you should get there early to sign up for the night that starts @ 7 because the spots go fast. :)

The sad thing is that most of these performance opportuninties are not tailored for youth. Only Apple Jacks and Metalworks cater to an all ages audience. The rest are bars so legally speaking no one under 19 is allowed after 9.

Special accolades to Gayle for the newsworthy info. You can catch Gayle Ackroyd and Laura Thomas performing at St.Paul's Church for the Brampton Folk Club Concert Series on October 30th in Sanderson Hall.

Did you know...

2009-09-12T00:01:00.000-04:00

Today's Brampton Day!

Check out the community booths, surprises and the going ons in Downtown Brampton. Swing by the BAC booth and say hi to me. :)

Currently listening to: Don't Do Anything - Sam Phillips

Back to School...

2009-09-08T11:21:00.000-04:00

Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Or your school year. Or your work week. Or something.

For a lot of you out there, today's back to school. Back to drudergy and books and absorbing all that good information your teachers or professors give to you and until last year around this time I was one of you. Dragging my feet and cursing that month of September for rolling around, but now...

Now I'm kinda strangely wistful. I'm happy that it's over. I'm not the most scholastic person, but there was an easiness to life and knowing what one is to do. Wake up. Go to classes. Study. Do the best you can to get the good marks. Enjoy it while it lasts but plan for once it's over. :)

For now I wish the readers an awesome school/work year. Good luck and hard workings to you.

Rock Against Cancer...

2009-08-24T21:59:00.013-04:00

Yeah, no creative title this time. I went to Rock Against Cancer this weekend. Brampton Arts Council was one of the sponsors of the event so I went there to collect some props. I could sit here and tell you all about it but I think pictures and video could tell the story much better. Words will just be the accent to colour the visuals this time but before I begin let's talk a little about what Rock Against Cancer is.

It's an event that Brampton's Rock School and Express Your Music Foundation hosts to fundraise for the cause, provide their students an opportunity to perform while recognizing peers for their musicianship, and “learn[ing] about the power of positive social change, how the small acts of a few can change the lives of many”1 according to co-owner Andrea Gavrilovic, which to me makes it compelling. You can't help but do good just by attending the event, but by attending the event you also get to have fun and enjoy some music and a community. Win win? Woot! :)

Okay, so this entry I decided to try something a little different. I posted all my pictures, some artsy, most pretty “normal” on the Picasa album and I've identified whoever I could from the event. Hopefully by the end of the week. Everyone who wants to be identified will be done.

Props:

The Karaoke Tent (donated by Pace Marathon) at the other end of the parking lot from the main stage. I'm a sucker for karaoke. It's oodles of fun no matter what fuddy duddys say! :) Clever idea: charging singers a $1 a song. :) Just the right amount.

Vendors: Tamami ko bag. Not only are the bags and note books pretty to look at – made from old kimono cloth, chic – but the lady who sells them is pretty sweet and awesome. How do I know this? Kelly, are you just plugging random people? No, I know that when I fell she came over to make sure I was okay. That doesn't sound like much, but it is.

Music: Everything was enjoyable. I think it's just good that there was, in this instance, a place for youth to perform and it wasn't all rock for the haters. :) Music is music is music.

EVERybody: for being patient, composed and toughing it out in the rain for an hour halfway through the event.

Enjoy the pictures, comments and videos! :)

1. http://rockagainstcancer.therockschool.ca/about.html

Listening to: Regina Spektor – Edit; Louis XIV - Finding out True Love is Blind; Joel Plaskett - Nowhere with You

Just... beautiful

2009-08-18T23:59:00.017-04:00

Latinfest was awesome! I got to Garden Square probably about 5:30 p.m. and it, my friend, was PACKED. I have never seen it so full in my life. This is me going to Garden Square almost every Saturday last year, a few Saturdays this year and some Sundays too. I said what's up to Karen Clouter. She was there painting the kiddies for free. Check out the little bumblebeee on her arm. Can you see the bumblebee? No? Trust me, it's there and pretty

Latinfest was a sensory feast if I ever saw one. Crafters and vendors selling colourful Latin goods and works. Churros made on-site with the chocolate goodness! Tacos, burritos and other familiar salivating yumminess. I wasn't there for long but I wished I was able to stay longer. If only for the dancing.

The thing that got me, or gets me rather, the most is the dancing. I'm not going to pretend I can tell the cha cha from the salsa from a meringue or a paso doble – though wait. I think I could tell the paso doble from the others. You have to catch the foot work from the couple demoing the dance moves. They weren't the only ones dancing though, couples were showing their smooth moves all over the place. You can catch more of them from the youtube vids I posted.

The band that provided the music for a lot of the couples while I was there was called Salsotika. Their sound and particularly distinct rhythm section was also caught by me on the video.

Here's my facebook photo album of the event. :) Let me know if it doesn't show up. :)

You can catch me next at Rock Against Cancer on the 22nd. Come out and support the fight against cancer. It's a good fight.

My first attempt at a panoramic shot...

Currently listening to: Paolo Nutini – Keep Rolling; The Streets – Your Song; Streetlight Manifesto – We Are the Few; Regina Spektor – Samson; Kathleen Edwards – Sweet Lil Duck

different locale, different spirit

2009-08-13T21:45:00.010-04:00

Well, that was quite a trip. Just got home from Chinguacousy Park. It was Communities in Bloom's Community Showcase. A really good place to see some of the services Brampton holds. BAC had their own booth, or should I say... a stage. We had our annual graphic novel of the arts in which some of our member groups perform. Last year's attendance had a longer list of performers but we did what we do at the council and kept on.

The set up was ideal and perfect this year. We were uphill with a small picnic house was the stage while some rafter benches were arranged in a slight 'V'. From the Brampton Library's reading of "Tacky and the Winter Games", by Bonnie-Kay Norman, Emily Norman Rebecca Norman and Sarah D'Cunha, to pump the public up for the upcoming Olympics to the lovely Sonia's artists from her Synergy Performing Arts Academy , like her hip hop dancers Samani and Anjan Puri, pianist Kristy Isidro and Omega Mighty performing her own single "Tainted". Later Anjan even performed a Charlie Brown monologue for the audience.

*said like a hokey game show host* AND THAT'S NOT ALL, folks!

Peel Panto Players' Joe Rose and Rose Brown parodied that television show Antique Roadshow, making the audience at least crack a smile with their antics.

Elizabeth demoed the art and discipline of the beautiful dance-form Nia to our audience. Janella and intern Therese joined in from the audience.

Yours truly even sang a few times. Again me with the nervous but mayhaps a good way to promote. I wish though I got to see the Rock School do their thing. They along with a couple of other local talents, Minus One and Bottoms Up were at the other side of the park. I will get to check them out next Saturday though at Rock Against Cancer . I better see you! Say hi to I!

Currently listening to: Mirah – Archipelago; The Clash – The Prisoner; Danko Jones – Something Better; Alicia Keys & Usher – My Boo (Reggae Remix!)

Let's have a little chat...

2009-08-13T11:35:00.003-04:00

So it's been two weeks almost and I've written nothing. Doesn't mean I don't have anything to say, just got a little busier working on the new website BAC is putting together. It's so pretty. :) I'm quite pleased with it's look and the modifications we're making to make it a little better.

I had an interview with Ashley Goodfellow this past Tuesday. ANXIETY! I'm not the most verbose, eloquent speaker. Something about speaking on the spot usually tackles me, but I touched on points as my mind raced with information in circles. If that metaphor even makes sense. Anyhow, I particularly liked Ashley's question: “What can the community do to help you in your position?”. At the time I said participate. Go to concerts. Be about plays. Come out to events but on second thought, I think there's more. Participation is where it begins but actually becoming involved is where it's at. But my version of participation suggests an almost passive quality. sitting, watching and clapping for a performance – or hollering if it's particularly moving and/or sublime, but involvement like volunteering at your local favoured organization: the Rose(for the dramatic and observant), Brampton Library (for the thoughtful bookworm), Our Place Peel (for the social revolutionary), or maybe, dare I say it? The Brampton Arts Council (for the creative and organized). Those are just off the top of my head. For the younger types, it provides awesome experience and resume material. For the other types it gets you involved and meeting people in your community and connecting. 'Who does this woman think she is?' Wait a sec, before I lecture the public on what should be done or how I'd ideally like it, I should reveal a bit about me or at least what this youth liaison bit is about?

I will, just keep reading.

Currently listening to: Mirah – Archipelago; The Clash – The Prisoner; Danko Jones – Something Better; Alicia Keys & Usher – My Boo (Reggae Remix!)

Brampton's Best Kept Secret?

2009-07-31T16:22:00.009-04:00

Brampton has a lot of “best kept secrets” and I'm not sure if it works out as well as it should. A woman asked me at the Street Festival last week if there were any local galleries to take her niece to. She asked me if! A little pain went through my heart because she was going to head down to the Royal Ontario Museum or the Art Gallery of Ontario.

There are at least three galleries I could list off the top of my head running around in Brampton. Immediately the Peel Heritage Complex sprang to mind. Only because that's one of the first cultural spaces I remember visiting in my life. The Complex is a gallery, museum and archives with history framing and supporting it all since the public building is a former jail house. If you're not into history, the arts or archaeology, visit the Complex simply because of its architecture. I don't think I've seen buildings with this thick, heavy stone and how that stone is used in the building creates new spaces out of the old.

I was lucky enough yesterday to be led on a tour by one Diane Allengame, the current curator of the triple threat complex, to learn about changes and tidbits of Complex information. The most surprising face to me was that Complex is currently showing .03 % of their gallery collection and 1% of their museum collection. For those not in the know most museums usually present 10 % of their collections at a time allowing for material they can cycle and freshen displays with. Thankfully, the Complex is pursuing a much-needed expansion for more display and storage space. It will be closing its door sometime in the future in order to phase into this. Hopefully, I'll remember to remind everyone to pop in before they well, can't for a bit.

Another thing the expansion is looking to do is make the side of the complex that faces Gage Park a little more inviting, inclusive. Who can't enjoy that? No one. :)

The thing I liked about the tour was midpoint when I got to hear bursts of kids acting in the Museum from the Complex's summer program. There are young artists running amuck around this city of ours. I just gotta find 'em.

Peel Heritage Complex
9 Wellington Street East
Brampton, Ontario L6W 1Y1
Phone: 905-791-4055 Fax: 905-451-4931

Other galleries you can enjoy around town are:

Visual Arts Brampton
1 Bartley Bull Parkway, Suite 10
Brampton ON L6W 3T7
Phone: (905) 453-9142
E-mail: visualartsbrampton@gmail.com

and

Beaux Arts Brampton (which is just down the street from the Heritage Complex in Downtown Brampton)
70-74 Main Street North
Brampton, ON L6V 1N7
Tel: (905) 454-5677
Toll Free: 1-866-339-7779
Email: beauxart1@bellnet.ca

Last but not least there are a couple of Visual Arts groups you can check with that I haven't listed here but are on our website at: http://www.artsbrampton.ca/directory.htm

All of the galleries connect to the youth in different ways, whether through tours, lessons or courses. Check 'em out.

Have you ever been to the Peel Heritage Complex or any of our little galleries around town? What did you love? Do you want to go? Make plans!

Picture used with permission of Diane Allengame.

Currently listening to Hawsley Workman - Silent Night; Blue October - She's My Ride Home; Balkan Beat Box – Balcasio; Ella Fitzgerald's – A Night in Tunisa

Where were you on the night of July 23rd, 2009?

2009-07-26T12:36:00.002-04:00

I didn't get a chance to explore Brampton's 3rd annual Communities in Bloom Downtown Street Festival as much as I would have liked but from my spot on the first floor, my senses told me that there was quite a bit to do, watch, taste, listen and buy. The tinkling of steel drums, the clap of clogs upstairs made me a little envious of those visiting and not boothed. Unusually - and thankfully - the booths weren't on the street this year because of the “inclement weather conditions” and tents were removed as tables were positioned in Rose Theatre.

I saw Dale O'Hara there. Well, more than a glimpse. She was directly across from me so I could wave at her lots. Dale was there promoting Acres of Glass, which is a company biography of the Dale Estate and how it intersects with Brampton's history. It's interesting to watch older people walk by her booth, stop in their tracks and chat with her about the Brampton they remember growing up, a kind of compare and contrast. A place and its memories can anchor people like that.

Another one of my neighbours was the Brampton C lean City Committee. Joey and Vince, manning their table were awesome, especially with the theatrical way they appealed to kids with their waterless tattoo's. I'm glad that Brampton is putting money into educating kids about the environment and their role in conservation, especially with events like the Peel Children's Water Festival, which I learned about from Christina, another booth neighbour with the Region of Peel.

I'm learning a lot from this job so far. I thought a booth would be better but I like approaching people and talking to them, but I'm still not hearing from anyone. Mayhaps, I'll connect more with people at the next Communities in Bloom event, which is the Community Showcase on August the 13th at Chinguacousy Park. Things kick off at 6 p.m! I'm hoping to see peeps there. It's music, food and people. What's not to love?

If you see me, don't be afraid to come up and say hey. :)

The calm before the storm of people that afternoon.

While you were sleeping....

2009-07-22T00:48:00.001-04:00

Savannah Festival of Rhythms was quite the event this past Sunday. The beautiful shiny weather was a bit reluctant to show but I'm guessing the sun couldn't help but beam once it heard the Latin rhythms that started the concert with a bang.

Those rhythms belonged to Anacaona, a 14 piece, all- lady Cuban band that rocked it out. The sun wasn't the only one unable to resist the beats as smatterings of the crowd took to their feet.

Next on stage was rhythm and blue singer Virgil Scott. If you don't know, he will undoubtedly tell you he's been in the entertainment business for 44 years and now you do know.

Last, but never least, Canada's diva Jackie Richardson and the utterly cool jazz sounds of Kollage came together to impress the crowd.

You know, I didn't know Brampton had events like this. This is Savannah's 7th year and that kind of shocks me. It's a well-run event. Not only were the performers top notch, but there were local artisans with various items from semi-precious jewellery to friend voodoo dolls to stain glass creations and not to mention the Service Canada Centre for Yo uth's booth. Oh! There were fantabulous visual artists displaying their work from abstract to realism and everything in between and if all that's not enough to set you going every year. The Savannah Festival is in support of sickle cell awareness. In a city of almost half a million, I would have expected - or dreamed of - seeing more people. How *does* one get the word out in this town?

This is the part where I talk about youth, being a youth liaison and all because I didn't get a strong feeling of youth there. Don't get me wrong. I saw youth there: kids running and shouting around, tweens and teenagers chillaxing on whatever was handy and young adults checking out the booths. Hey Kelly! It wasn't a youth event though maybe a family event, but not solely for the young 'uns. Perhaps the mysterious interjection is right, which is why I didn't get the young, bright vibe but some of the kids I did see, seemed taken aback or aloof and that worries me. I don't want to sound old but "when I was a kid everything was new, exciting and fresh!" Okay, you gotta imagine me shaking my finger and saying that in a voice like that old neighbour man from Family Guy - perks it right up.

I don't know. Anyone agree? Disagree? What makes you less aloof? What events would you like to see Brampton putting out there?

Catch more video clips on youtube.

Or become a fan of Brampton Arts Council on Facebook.

Here we go!

2009-07-20T12:23:00.000-04:00

Hey folks! I’m back. I’m quite excited about the Youth Liaison position that I've been generously offered by the Brampton Arts Council. For those of you who might not know, I’m Kelly Lewars. I interned at the council last summer and had an awesome time doing it. I must have done something well because now I'm here. I’m looking forward to hearing from all of you, especially the younger folks, and their ideas about the path of arts in Brampton. I’ve got a small arsenal of my own thoughts that I will hope will colour delight in this city of ours. One of my ideas that I'll need *your* help with is this blog. Kids and young adults, teens and tweens speak up! I want to hear your questions, concerns or thoughts about arts in Brampton and formally issue you an invite to contact me. What do you think about local events, happenings or the urban playground movement? Holler at me: kelly@artsbrampton.ca