As they do every year, the Ponoka Art Club have hosted their show and sale; and as in previous years, the group hasn’t disappointed.
The halls of the drop-in centre were filled with bright paintings, pottery and woodworking last weekend with this year’s featured artist being Eileen Ensminger.
She presented more than 50 pieces of artwork created over the years, along with the other pieces provided by her peers. Ensminger said she had always had a flair for artwork, but only in 2009 picked up the paintbrush again and joined the club.
“I use most mediums … recently I’ve been using mostly acrylic,” said Ensminger.
Most of her work is based out of photos she has taken or were given to her and they have a strong element of realism in them. Ensminger said her process is to start out with a grid drawing and then to develop her work from there.
This helps keep the perspective and realism in her work. Ensminger’s work is quite varied and she loves it. “I lose myself in it.”
Not to get too involved, she tries to balance out the hours she paints so she doesn’t get overworked. Ensminger credits her husband for reminding her when to take a break. What gets her motivated? “I usually play gospel music when I’m painting.”
She credits much of her improvement to the art club. Ensminger said there are several instructors that come to their classes who guide artists through the process.
In the fall, they have an artist that teaches every Tuesday night at the drop-in centre.
Club president Bernice Edwards said that while they host classes and events at the drop-in centre, the club is open to most people.
Edwards has been able to improve her water colour skills, something she never enjoyed, but is now her medium of choice. Plus it’s a way to meet new people. “I really enjoy the friendship with people.”
She says it’s fun, and cheap; a membership costs $5 per year and members only need to supply their own materials.
“We cover pretty well every artistic medium,” she added.
The sale part of the event also had some work brought in by the Potters Guild and some special woodworking creations.
Edwards says between the group efforts and classrooms there is much to learn.