For one September afternoon, Schurter Park became more than a park.

Paintings and handmade creations filled vendor booths, music played across the grounds and children lined up for face painting as the fifth annual Art in the Park returned to Slave Lake on Sept. 13.

Local artists and artisans gathered at Schurter Park on Art in the Park.

“It was a beautiful day, and the entire event ran smoothly from start to finish,” says Sarah Hudson, president of the Lesser Slave Lake Regional Arts Council.

This year, 20 artist vendors and three food vendors took part.

Hudson says one of the biggest highlights was simply watching the park come alive.
Local musician Karley Bilsky performed live throughout the event, while families took part in activities such as face painting.

There was also some friendly competition through a silent auction for a horse painting.

Tara Gauchier placed the winning bid, with all proceeds going back to the Arts Council.

Mary Giroux gets her face painted during the fifth annual Art in the Park at Schurter Park on Sept. 13. Face painting was among the activities available for visitors during the community event, which brought local artists and families.
Aisha Williams displays a selection of her oil paintings during her first Art in the Park on Sept. 13. The Lakeside Leader will cover her art next week.

“We had a wonderful, steady stream of visitors throughout the day,” says Hudson. “People made a point of stopping by to take in the beautiful weather, listen to the music, and support our local makers.”

For the artists, Hudson says the relaxed atmosphere was part of the appeal.
Vendors told organizers they enjoyed the layout and appreciated being able to park directly behind their booths, making setup and takedown easier.

Now five years in, Art in the Park has grown into a seasonal tradition for local creators and art lovers.

Hudson says the event gives artists an opportunity to build confidence, meet people in the community and sell their creations locally.

Kathlene Eben displays some of her pottery work during Art in the Park at Schurter Park on Sept. 13. Eben was among the local artisans who showcased their work at the annual event, giving visitors a chance to see and learn more about the creative work being produced in the community. The Lakeside Leader will feature Eben and her pottery in an upcoming issue.

It also takes a community to make the day happen.
The Royal Canadian Army Cadets helped with setup and takedown, while several local businesses and organizations provided sponsorship, supplies and support.

Hudson hopes the event will continue growing, with possibilities including live artist demonstrations and hands-on community workshops.

But she says what brings people back may be something much simpler.

“It’s the relaxed outdoor setting and genuine community spirit,” says Hudson.

From left to right, Toni Chalifoux and Alexis McKechnie take part in a Sketching in Nature class led by Willow McKay, farther right, during the fifth annual Art in the Park at Schurter Park on Sept. 13. The class gave participants an opportunity to slow down, observe their surroundings and create artwork inspired by the natural landscape around them.

Whether visitors come for the artwork, music, face painting or simply a conversation with a local maker, Hudson says Art in the Park has become “a warm seasonal tradition people look forward to every year.”

Julia Magsombol
Lakeside Leader