Citizens eager to view paintings created at the hands of Foothills area artists can fill up on pasta while helping to combat domestic violence.
A group of artists called Brushed with Flair will host itsannual Pasta With a Purpose fundraiser featuring art, pasta and jazz music at the DeWinton Community Hall Oct. 18 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. to raise money for the Rowan House Emergency Shelter.
Artists Tina Winistok, Dana Winistok, Deborah Whitton, Susan Torres, Marg Smith, Debra Green, Cathie Johnson and Marli Beetge will showcase their work throughout the evening, with painting demonstrations and a 30-minute painting challenge.
“It’s a very relaxed and casual atmosphere,” said Beetge of the event. “The art is set up on easels. We all have got a different style so that’s good to keep that kind of variety in it.”
The styles range from wildlife and landscape paintings to abstract.
Beetge’s own work boasts foothills landscapes and animals, using oil on canvas and charcoal on reclaimed wood.
“I’ve been painting my whole life, really,” she said. “I’ve been painting professionally the last two years. Before that it was just a hobby I did on the side every now and then.”
It was while looking for work two years ago that Beetge decided to focus on her art.
“There wasn’t much around that I was interested in so I decided to become a professional artist,” she said. “I definitely enjoy the process. That’s why I’ve been doing it all my life.”
Being a part of the Brushed With Flair’s Pasta With a Purpose is an opportunity for Beetge to share her art with more people and work with other artists for a good cause.
“I like it because the money goes to the Rowan House and it’s a good cause to support,” she said. “I enjoy working with the other artists. We get along well and it’s a fun show to do.”
Rowan House volunteers prepare the pasta dinner, serving it in buffet style with gluten free and vegetarian options.
“We have a chef that makes the meal and we will have emcees that get the crowd laughing,” said Betty George, Rowan House volunteer and event co-ordinator. “We keep it upbeat and fun.”
George said Pasta With a Purpose is an opportunity for people to enjoy dinner and a glass of wine, look at beautiful art and learn how the Rowan House serves the community beyond providing shelter for women escaping domestic abuse.
“A lot of people think the Rowan House is just that physical building,” she said. “They don’t realize that we meet with women in the community who are thinking about leaving or might have some questions about how to leave safely or make their relationship better. We’re also in the schools talking to youth about what healthy relationships look like.”
George said the money from this and other charity events allows the Rowan House to continue with programs in the community and schools as a preventative measure to combat domestic violence and abuse.
Ticket to attend Pasta With a Purpose cost $30 each. Proceeds from ticket sales and 30 per cent of art sales will go to the Rowan House. Tickets can be purchased on eventbrite.ca
