Entries by Angelica San Juan

Steinbach Arts Council Continues to Offer High Quality Programming in Fall of 2025

July 21, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is thrilled to announce registration for 2025 Fall Classes will open to the public on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Continuing the momentum from the success and growth of last year, with many sold-out classes and workshops, the Steinbach Arts Council is excited to offer quality, creative, and unique learning opportunities for the community. “The growth in participation in classes and the consecutive learning in classes were highlights of the year. We know that there is an increasing demand for arts, culture, and recreation in our community, and we’re excited to offer more great opportunities this year. We saw hundreds of participants in our classes last year, and we had an outstanding response to the increase in programming, receiving positive and supportive feedback from those who participated,” says Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs at the Steinbach Arts Council. The Steinbach Arts Council offers a diverse range of programs from children to adults, including its flagship programs, such as the Arts4tots Preschool Program, sponsored by Oakridge Garden Centre, and the Backyard Theatre Company, sponsored by Nature’s Farm. SAC is also home to the Steinbach Children’s & Youth Chorus and offers introductory dance classes in partnership with BOSS Dance Academy. Additionally, SAC hosts culinary arts classes, sponsored by Main Bread & Butter, and provides a variety of visual arts classes, from pottery to painting, drawing, and more, catering to all skill levels. This fall season, the free After School Arts Programs will return, featuring classes in improv, culinary arts, guitar, fiddle, pottery, and visual arts for students in grades 5-12. SAC is also particularly excited about continuing to offer more cultural and heritage workshops, including Metis Finger Weaving, Metis Driftwood Windchime Making, Paper Cutting Art, Filipino Parol Making, and more, made possible by the generous support of Mark & Bonnie Loewen and Steinbach Hatchery & Feed. The Steinbach Arts Council has dedicated instructors, whose passion and expertise enrich the community. These instructors, both long-time contributors and new additions, are integral to SAC’s mission of creating community through arts and culture. The community is encouraged to check out the updated class list and register through the Steinbach Arts Council’s website, SteinbachArts.ca, or by calling 204.346.1077. To arrange an interview, please contact:Angelica San Juan, Communications and Outreach Coordinator204.346.1077 | marketing@steinbacharts.ca

KR Barkman Concerts in the Park – Free Outdoor Concerts Celebrate Community

May 21, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is pleased to announce that your favourite FREE outdoor concert series is back this summer. KR Barkman Concerts in the Park are for the whole family, featuring local performers across a variety of genres – folk, pop, classical, punk, Southern Gospel, classic rock, theatre, and more! “The KR Barkman Concerts in the Park series is a great way to celebrate the talent in our region and kick off the summer season in Steinbach,” says Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator. “We had many performer applications this year and we’re looking forward to hearing both familiar groups as well as some newer emerging artists!” Everyone is encouraged to bring their lawn chairs or blanket to the KR Barkman Park on Tuesday, May 27th at 6:30pm for the first outdoor concert of 2025, and plan to enjoy the music through to June 10th. To find KR Barkman Park, head southeast down Main Street, just past the Steinbach Fire Hall, and look for the gazebo. Weather cancellations will be posted on the Steinbach Arts Council social media. 2025 KR Barkman Concerts in the Park Schedule May 27 – Paradise on Fire, Acorns & Armchairs, Kites & LightsMay 29 – Abandoning Abby, New Covenant Quartet, Darryl Marsch BandJune 3 – Mother Burden, P NoiseJune 5 – Father & Son, Louden King, The ChammartinsJune 10 – Looking Glass Theatre, Southeast Brass Quintet The Steinbach Arts Council is delighted to partner with the Barkman Concrete Foundation to continue this summer tradition of featuring local artists and bringing our community together in celebration of music and arts. Thanks to Barkman Concrete Foundation for their support in providing free community concerts.

Steinbach Arts Council to Host Final Exhibit for the 2024-2025 Season

May 20, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is hosting its final Hall Gallery Exhibit for the year 2024-2025 with the exhibits titled Multi-Grains of Energy and Raw and Simple, featuring the works of two local talented artists, Naomi Gerrard and Earl Talatala. These exhibits will run from May 20th to June 27th, offering a unique opportunity for the public to explore and celebrate the beauty of nature through acrylic and mixed media. Naomi Gerrard grew up on a farm in Pennsylvania, incorporating numerous art projects into her daily life. After studying nursing and working as a Registered Nurse for several years, she pursued a B.F.A. in Fine Arts at the University of Minnesota. After immigrating to Manitoba with her Canadian husband and their three young children, she found herself drawn to art. For Naomi, art is a quest to capture the visual essence of a moment—the light, spirit, sound, tension, and underlying story. She began experimenting with mixed media art, using handmade papers and natural materials like sand, seeds, thread, yarn, cloth, plaster, and now even grains. Colour is an integral part of her life. Earl D. Talatala, a visual artist from the Philippines and now based in Steinbach, specializes in acrylic and mixed media. Surrounded by creativity from a young age, Earl draws inspiration from nature for his debut exhibit, often featuring animals in their ecosystem as his subjects. His vibrant art encourages viewers to reconnect with the natural world. While there will be no formal opening ceremony for these exhibits, the public is welcome to view them in the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre, 304 Second St. Several artworks are currently listed for sale, and the Steinbach Arts Council is pleased to provide its assistance in facilitating their sale. “We’re very fortunate to call ourselves home to many talented artists over the past 25 years, and we can’t wait to see what Naomi and Earl bring to the table. Naomi’s use of natural materials like wheat and grain in her artwork and Earl’s portrayal of natural environments through acrylic offers something unique in our community, and we know our patrons are going to love them,” says Mallory Stang, Hall Gallery keyperson. The Steinbach Arts Council would like to express its sincere gratitude to our Hall Gallery sponsor, Good N Natural and the Steinbach Community Foundation for supporting our gallery expansion.

Earl Talatala

May 7, 2025 in /by

"Raw and Simple"

Earl Talatala

Open from May 23 to June 27, 2025

Earl Talatala

Earl D. Talatala is a visual artist working primarily with acrylic and mixed media. Born in the Phillippines into a family of artists, Earl grew up surrounded by creativity, which laid the foundation for his own artistic journey. Now based in Steinbach, he finds deep inspiration in the beauty of nature, often reflecting its textures, colors, and spirit in his work.

This exhibit marks Earl’s debut on the art scene, showcasing his unique perspective and expressive use of materials. His art invites viewers to slow down, observe, and reconnect with the natural world through his vibrant and layered compositions.

Want to take a closer look?

See more at the Hall Gallery, located in the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre at 304 Second St. You’re welcome to enjoy the artwork during our office hours. A toonie admission is appreciated and can be left in the donation box in the hall.



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Naomi Gerrard

May 7, 2025 in /by

Multi-grains of Energy

Naomi Gerrard

Open from May 23 to June 27, 2025

Naomi Gerrard

While growing up on a farm in Pennsylvania Naomi included many art projects into her life.  Naomi studied nursing and worked as a Registered Nurse for several years and then completed a B.F.A. at the University of Minnesota in Fine Arts before immigrating to Manitoba with her Canadian husband and their 3 young children.  Art for Naomi is a search for the visual voice, for the light, spirit, sound, tension and story of the moment.  She began creating mixed media art using handmade papers and natural products such as sand, seeds, thread, yarn, cloth, plaster and now grains.  Colour is an integral element in her life. 

Artist Statement

For many years, Naomi has been using her art to explore the energy of the prairies while celebrating the importance of our prairie agriculture.  She is inspired by the potential surging life of the individual grains planted annually on our prairies.  It is these maturing grains that change the vast prairie landscape annually from the planting season, through the growing season to the harvest season and then the resting season. These grains spread energy, hope and beauty as they develop into nourishing food for us all. Each individual grain has its own inherent personality, range of colors, shape and beauty.   She incorporates these grains into her mixed media art works using about 15 different grains including canola, flax, wheat, oats, buckwheat, sunflower seeds, rye, alfalfa, clover, mustard seeds and many more. Naomi feels a connection to our prairies through these grains as she develops compositions depicting the planting, sprouting, maturing and harvesting of the grains as well as showing products created from these grains and animals enjoying the gains.  The energy of the grains as they mature also inspires her more abstract compositions. These grains command a deep respect and encourage a reflection on life, nature and our connections to the land. The health of our agriculture is vitally linked to the health of our prairie society.  These mixed media works encourage us all to reflect on our prairie energy.

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Want to take a closer look?

See more at the Hall Gallery, located in the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre at 304 Second St. You’re welcome to enjoy the artwork during our office hours. A toonie admission is appreciated and can be left in the donation box in the hall.



Donate Today



Find More Exhibits

Steinbach Arts Council Seeks Performers for KR Barkman Concerts in the Park

April 22, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is once again looking for performing artists to share their talents with the community at the 2025 KR Barkman Concerts in the Park this spring. This free outdoor concert series will take place in May and June at the KR Barkman Park gazebo on Main Street. Performing artists of all disciplines are encouraged to apply to perform – family and cultural groups, youth ensembles, choirs, bands, soloists, vocalists, instrumentalists, dancers, and artists of all kinds! If you’re looking to share your artistry, this is a great opportunity for you. “Each spring we have a chance to celebrate the incredible talent found right here in our community. It’s a treat to welcome back groups that have been a part of the series for years, and it’s exciting to discover the fresh voices of emerging artists and new creative projects. We’re excited to provide this opportunity for artists to share their talent with the community.” says Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator at the Steinbach Arts Council. Performer applications can be completed online at SteinbachArts.ca. Applicants are asked to submit a short bio, audio/video samples, and a band or artist photo. The Steinbach Arts Council will provide the park rental, assist with a sound system if necessary, and provide marketing and promotions for artists. Concerts will be scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays between May 20th and June 10th, with a detailed date list available on our website. Fill out your preferred dates on the application form – first come, first served! Applications to perform in the KR Barkman FREE Concerts in the Park will be accepted until May 5, 2025, with a final concert series schedule announced in early May. The Steinbach Arts Council is delighted to partner with the Barkman Concrete Foundation to continue this summer tradition of featuring local and guest artists and bringing our community together in celebration of music and arts.

Grunthal Artist Exhibits Extraordinary Resin Work with the Steinbach Arts Council

March 31, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council is thrilled to announce the upcoming exhibit titled In The Night Sky featuring the breathtaking works of Merrill Clark, a talented artist from Grunthal, Manitoba. This exhibit will run from April 11 to May 16 at the Hall Gallery, offering a unique opportunity for the public to explore the beauty and mystery of the night sky through resin art. Merrill Clark’s artistic journey began in her childhood, nurtured by her creative parents in Winnipeg. Her passion for working with resin started with the creation of 3-dimensional pyramids, showcasing rare selenite crystals mined by her family during the construction of the Red River Floodway in the 1960s. As her art evolved, Clark discovered the versatility of resin, allowing her to conceptualize her fascination with the night sky. Many of her pieces are now held in private collections in Italy, Brazil, Australia, and beyond. “I was blessed with artistic parents who appreciated and encouraged creativity in any art form,” Clark reflects on her early beginnings. Her transition to working with canvas has given her the freedom to experiment with technique and complexity of design, inspired by the spectacular night sky visible from her current home in Grunthal, Manitoba. “The fluidity of resin, along with how it interacts uniquely with various additives, allows my imagination to bring these galaxies to life in my work,” she explains, highlighting the unique medium that defines her art. Mallory Stang, new keyperson for the Hall Gallery at SAC states, “This exhibit encapsulates the beauty and mystery of the night, capturing the details of galaxies and nebulas in resin. We are excited to showcase such a unique artform which is beloved worldwide. Our gallery has always been the home of many great artists in our region for more than 25 years now, and we’re honoured to have Merrill belong in that roster.” Merrill will be our second-to-last artist in our 2024-2025 line up. We want to remind our community members that if they are someone like Merrill who would like to share their art in a professional setting, applications are now open until April 25th. We’re looking forward to the exceptional talent the community has to offer. The Steinbach Arts Council’s mission is to create partnerships within our community and encourage the awareness and enjoyment of arts and culture. SAC invites everyone to join us in celebrating the remarkable talent and creative imagination of Merrill Clark during an Opening Ceremony on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 6:30 PM. This event is free to the public. SAC encourages a toonie donation to support our hall gallery. Clark will be showcasing a collection of pieces and merchandise for sale, and the Steinbach Arts Council will be delighted to assist in facilitating their sale. We also want to express our sincere gratitude to our Hall Gallery sponsor, Good N Natural.

Merrill Clark

March 31, 2025 in /by

"In the Night Sky"

Merrill Clark

Open from April 11, 2025 - May 16, 2025 | Opening Ceremony April 11, 2025 at 6:30PM

Merrill Clark

Merrill Clark was born and raised in Winnipeg, where her artistic parents nurtured her creativity, encouraging her to explore various forms of art. This exposure sparked a lifelong passion for creative expression, which she has pursued through numerous mediums.

Her fascination with resin began years ago, when she started creating three-dimensional pyramids that showcased rare selenite crystals mined by her family during the construction of the Red River Floodway in the 1960s. As she experimented with the medium, she discovered that she could also use it to bring her fascination with the night sky to life, crafting small galaxies and nebulas within the pyramids. Many of these pieces are now part of private collections around the world, including in Italy, Brazil, and Australia.

As her art evolved, she found that the pyramids became limiting due to their size, and she transitioned to working with canvas. This change allowed her to explore more complex techniques and designs. Currently residing in Grunthal, where the night sky is a constant source of inspiration, Merrill Clark continues to create stunning pieces that bring the universe to life. The unique properties of resin, combined with its interactions with various additives, enable her to tap into her imagination and craft vibrant, otherworldly scenes that showcase her talent and creativity.

Want to take a closer look?

See more at the Hall Gallery, located in the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre at 304 Second St. You’re welcome to enjoy the artwork during our office hours. A toonie admission is appreciated and can be left in the donation box in the hall.



Donate Today



Find More Exhibits

The Steinbach Arts Council is Celebrating 45 Years of Community Impact and An Even Brighter Future.

March 5, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council (SAC) is proud to announce its 45th Anniversary Fundraising Gala, taking place on Friday, May 2, 2025. This milestone event will celebrate four and a half decades of programming within the community while highlighting the profound impact SAC has had on families over the past several years.  “This anniversary is not just a celebration of our history—it’s a celebration of the possibilities for the future,” says David Klassen, Executive Director of the Steinbach Arts Council. “The past few years of growth for us have reinforced the importance of the arts in bringing people together, especially for our children and families. The Gala is an opportunity to reflect on that impact and ensure that our programs and attendees continue to thrive, so our community can so the same.” SAC is committed to making high-quality arts programming accessible to all. Through initiatives like free youth programming, expanded bursary opportunities, and a growing variety of classes and workshops, SAC continues to break down barriers and create subsidized, inclusive programming that allows for the development of creativity and confidence-building.  “Our 45th anniversary is a reflection of the positive impact and foreseeable growth in the future of the arts,” says Cassandra Kornelsen, Manager of Community Programs at the Steinbach Arts Council. “When a community has a place to belong, growth happens, creativity is born, and passion is expressed through various artistic mediums. We are the artistic heartbeat for many individuals, providing opportunities to learn, explore, and build relationships that allow us to thrive.” As one of the original presenters of live performance, SAC continues its long tradition of presenting world-class entertainment.  “We’ve been bringing quality arts and culture programming to our community for many years. We are proud to continue that tradition, and we are also excited for what’s ahead. We’re exploring new initiatives like free concerts in seniors’ homes, more frequent cultural celebrations, and expanded opportunities for youth so our whole community can experience belonging.  We’re excited to work together with our supporters to make these important events possible,” says Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator. With a fundraising goal of $65,000, this year’s Gala will directly support programs that enrich the lives of people across the southeast region. Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring gourmet local cuisine, fine wines, award-wining local entertainment, and a curated live auction including live art (Colleen Watchorn and Dawn Schmidt) and a dinner hosted in SAC’s own hall gallery, among other items. Guests will also have an opportunity to purchase an anniversary edition piece of jewelry, created by GNM fine Jewelers. SAC’s 45th anniversary Gala will feature several SAC students who have excelled in their commitment to learning their craft, and who contribute to their own community by sharing their artistic skills and gifts. The event will also provide an opportunity to donate, allowing attendees to contribute to SAC’s ongoing mission – to create community through arts and culture. Tickets are available for $150 per person, or a table of 8 can be reserved for $1200. Those unable to attend are encouraged to donate in support of SAC programs. For tickets, auction details, and more information, visit steinbacharts.ca or call 204-346-1077. SAC extends its gratitude to its sponsors, whose generosity makes this event possible. A full list of sponsors and supporters will be available on the event website. Join us as we celebrate 45 years of arts, culture, and community, and help us continue making a difference for the next generation.

Steinbach Arts Council Brings Musical Theatre Hits to The Studio Series

March 3, 2025 in /by

The Steinbach Arts Council presents a Studio Series performance, Flipside Opera & Art Song Collective at 7:00pm on April 13th, 2025. Join the Flipside artistic team of soprano Judith Oatway and pianist Lisa Rumpel, along with Flipside board member and tenor Aaron Hutton for a casual, lighthearted evening of heartfelt musical theatre offerings, soulful songs, and opera hits.  “We started the Studio Series because the intimate vibe of a small audience that’s able to get up close and personal with the performer is nothing short of magic.” shares Tara Schellenberg, Performing Arts Coordinator at the Steinbach Arts Council. “The close connection takes the storytelling and artistry to the next level, and I know the talented musicians from Flipside Opera will make this a night to remember. Our audience will love seeing musical theatre and opera come to life.” Flipside Opera & Art Song Collective tells the stories of everyday experiences that make us human, through low-barrier, classically sung performances that are anything but traditional. Flipside curates compelling, immersive vocal theatre productions with exceptional performers, telling truth through song. The Studio Series features house concert-style performances held at the beautiful SCU Studio, located in the Steinbach Cultural Arts Centre. Exceptional artists connect with a small audience, creating an experience that is intimate, captivating, and extraordinary. Coffee and light refreshments will be served, and there will be opportunity to see these fabulous artists up close and speak with them after the concert. Tickets are $25 and available by calling 204.346.1077.