The forecast is for sunny skies with splashes of paint and creative storms.
The Two Rivers Gallery – along with MakerLab, The Exploration Place, Huble Homestead and the BC-SPCA – splatter their building and the adjacent parking lot with laughter and wonderment today and Saturday. It is the annual BMO KidzArt Dayz event, which is extra special this year since it is the City of Prince George's centennial year and also the 25th time the Bank Of Montreal and Two Rivers Gallery have teamed up to heap art upon the city's culture-crazy kids.
"This year, there will be over 25 art activities, such as DIY Face Painting, Pendulum Painting, and Jewelry Making," said event co-ordinator Cassie Lobban. "2015 also marks the return of an old classic, the Giant Paint Spinner, as well as the arrival of new activities, including String Printing, Fireworks Art, Marble Painting and a giant Matisse Collage. Live music and a cake cutting will also be a part of the celebration, so you don't want to miss out."
Thousands of people take part each year, with the kids doing as many art stations as their little legs and bubbly attention spans can squeeze in - all for free. There is an on-site affordable and healthy catering service available plus many downtown cafes and restaurants nearby.
"Since moving to Prince George, I have been thrilled to see what a vibrant and friendly community is here," said Lobban. "BMO KidzArt Dayz encourages community participation and welcomes everyone to join in with art activities that encourage free, unstructured creative play. I am so eager to be part of this great event."
It's a bit messy, especially the delightful messing it does with kids' minds, but it is one of the biggest smiley-faces stamped on the local children's calendar each year. Volunteers are needed in big numbers to keep the colours flowing.
"Volunteers will receive a free BMO KidzArt Dayz t-shirt, lunch is provided and high school students can earn credit for volunteer hours," said Lobban. If you are interested, contact her at [email protected].
In addition to free creative exploration for all ages, Two Rivers Gallery will also offer a major discount - 50 per cent off - for family memberships This deal is only available during BMO KidzArt Dayz, so organizers hope families take advantage of this great opportunity for year-round arts stimulation and appreciation.
The action fits between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. both today and Saturday.
