Becky Johnston and Lorinda Peel are putting the art in Heartbreak just in time for Valentines, Day, Feb. 14.
They are organizing a gala event at the Owl Acoustic Lounge combining an array of visual and performance artists with some of Lethbridge’s favourite singer songwriters who are all getting together to explore the time tested theme of heartbreak.
“It’s an event that is a safe place for creative expression exploring the theme of love and heartbreak,” Peel summarized.
Heartbreak and loss is such an ingrained, universal theme that countless angles can be explored through art and music.
“I’m really interested in seeing what perspectives will be portrayed, ” Peel continued.
“ I think heartbreak is one of the most powerful things we experience,” she added.
There will be over 25 participants in the event including musicians, poets and artist who will be supplying just under a dozen works for display and sales.
The event is also a fundraiser for Harbour House who will have an information and donation booth as well may have a couple performers. There will be a silent auction with all proceeds going to YWCA Harbour House — a 24 bed criss unit and support program for women and children involved in abusive relationships.
Artists Robert Bechtel and Aaron Hagan will be doing a live painting in time with the music of Shaela Miller and Ryan Dyck, Steve Foord, Leigh Doerksen, Brenna Lowrie, Jana MacKenzie, Gravity Crash’s Rob Morrison, Jennifer Bailey and Becky Johnston aka Iris E. Artists include Sarah Christensen, Derrick Grey, Trysch Nobahdi, Eva Montgomery and the Owl’s Braeden Brae.
Becky Johnston is excited to not only perform herself, but to have combined Lethbridge’s art and music communities with this event.
“There is going to be a lot of diversity. It’s going to be legendary,” Johnston said.
“All of the artists are volunteers who have donated their materials and time as are the musicians, visual artists and poets. I’m super excited about it,” she enthused.
They are already looking ahead to next year, and are considering adding a dance component to it.
The event begins at 7 p.m., Feb. 14. there is no cover, though donations will be accepted for Harbour House.
