Pouring rain didn’t dampen the spirits of the sold out crowd that attended the 25th anniversary celebration of the Arts Station on Friday, November 13, 2015. This special gathering that began at 7pm and ended at midnight was very impressive.
From the first step into the gallery the senses were bombarded with colour as a huge bouquet of lights sat on a tall table while the walls displayed “25 years of Art, a Celebration of Artists Gallery Show.” Strategically placed tables covered in white linen held a tempting array of cheeses, crackers and fruits.
In the Theatre small tables covered in sparkling cloths and bright lights transformed that space into a club like atmosphere where entertainers like Heather McDonald performed her own songs so beautifully, Mike and Anie of Red Girl had the crowd laughing and singing along and Tim Ketchum’s band and Shred Kelly added to a remarkable evening of entertainment.
A most amazing transformation was upstairs in the Blue Martini Lounge. Misty blue light gave an almost eerie look to the room that was cool and hot at the same time giving the room a great vibe. A perfect place to enjoy a martini while chomping down tiny appetizers that were absolutely delicious prepared by the Blue Toque and served to where each one was sitting or standing.
On another part of the room a Station Historical exhibit was laid out with many albums of photos depicting the transformation of the building from train station to art station available for perusal, it was interesting to see the many faces of those that worked on this project in order to make it a reality. Sometimes in the present it is easy to forget the individuals that initiated what is enjoyed today but in this instance several alumni of the visionaries of the conversion were in attendance like Rose Watson. Rose and her daughters Nicki and Beth were highly instrumental in the dream to turn the station into a hub for Art and Culture. Beth began the restaurant then called the Whistle Stop and managed it for several years before moving away. As well, Mary Menduk, artist, teacher and constant supporter of all the Arts in this town was on hand for the celebration as were Linda and Dave Bird and Beulah Limber.
Station Board chair Denise Baughan thanked that first group of people that made the Station happen and also thanked the many volunteers since then that have kept the Station vibrant and busy by providing the needed support. There are volunteers like Troy Cook, Mike Tomney and Donna Miller that sit on the present board but have been involved in many capacities over the 25 years. Denise ended by thanking the organizers of the 25th anniversary celebration. I want to add my personal thanks to Gail Adams for her ingenious ideas in assisting in the delightful theme for this event. I don’t know who the others are that helped with this however I extend sincere thanks to everyone for your contribution in this event.
As with every organization it is the volunteers that initiate projects, work to make them happen and then continue that work in order to sustain the dream and add to it.
The Art Station supports many groups within its walls utilizing every floor with some form of art.
Congratulations on 25 great years! Thank you to all of the individuals from beginning to present for your initiative, your continued support towards sustaining something that isn’t just a building, it is a place where people gather for fun, to create, to enjoy and to entertain. In doing so it is adding to the fabric of this town in ways that are both entertaining and economic while giving Fernie the reputation for being an Arts and Culture community. Thank you all and continued success.
