Where would we be without art? In a world surrounded by art we tend to take it for granted. In some cases, we raise some artist up higher than others. Yet, how often do we really, truly appreciate it? How often do we stop and really look? Art is all around us. We walk by it every day. It dwells in our backyards and in the dishes we eat. What if we stopped and started looking? How much could you find?
This Vlog will touch on places and events in and around Kamloops that represent art in its own way.
1. Self-guided Tours and murals
Artist: Kelly Wright (2018) Photograph by Grace Schranz
Art is Sight
Downtown is home to Victoria Street. A popular place for shoppers to stroll and window shop. But take the path behind the shops and you will find so much more. You can take a self-guided mural walk that showcases pieces done by many local artists. It’s easy, free, doesn’t take too much time and overall a pleasant experience. It can be done solo, but like most things, can be also be done with a friend. If you want more information on the pieces you can also book private tours. Downtown isn’t the only place that was art. Murals have spread to the North Shore. Taking the Rivers Trail will bring you past Overlanders Bridge, which is covered with graffiti art. Tranquille Road will take you past buildings sporting their own pieces of art and further in at Macdonald Park, beautiful Murals cover the buildings.
2. Museums and Art Gallery
Artist: Cameron Kerr Photograph by Grace Schranz
Art is History
Downtown also hosts our local Art Gallery and Museums. At the Kamloops Art Gallery you can walk the gallery showcasing exhibitions that change regularly. Each art piece holds its own story which the artist found a way to display. The art can also tell a story about the history of a place, whether it is the artist home place or an event in their own lives. You can also learn about history, specifically linked to Kamloops, at the Kamloops Museum and Archives. The archives covers a range of histories, displaying artifacts, sculptures, art pieces, clothing and more for you to go and observe. Art is also be embedded in the many of the older buildings scattered around Downtown. Buildings that have stood through history, and still hold those stories within their structure and foundation.
3. Food Can be Art Too
Food From Bright Eye Brewing Photographed by Grace Schranz
Art is Taste
Art can be more than music, painting and performing; food is art too and Kamloops is filled with places to go see and try. With food choices from all around the world, Kamloops has no shortage of possibilities and that’s not all. Bright Eye Brewing, located on the North Shore offers great service, amazing food, and in house brewed fruit beers that they are well known for. Along with that they hold a stunning mural done by local artist Kelly Wright, which represents the North Shore. Music can also be found at several establishments. One small place that lies tucked away, and can be missed, is the Sandbar Grill. This cozy restaurant is nestled right at the river’s edge, allowing you to even come by boat. With live music on occasion, it’s a great spot to enjoy a drink and skies painted red. With so many more place located all around, it is not hard to find a place to experience that world of culinary art.
4. Events and Other Activities
Santa Parade 2021 Photograph by Allen Douglas
Art is Sound
Like many cities, Kamloops is host to many events throughout the year. These events stretch across a wide range of interests, activities, cultures, and markets. Yet, in many ways, lots of these events can connect to the artistic world. Kamloops events can be free and easy to access or a bit more remote with a fee in place. Either way they are an exciting chance to experience Kamloops, what it was to offer, and the world of art hidden within. Parents can also find family friendly activities their children will enjoy. For those more musical the Kamloops Symphony is another enjoyable options for all ages.
5. Other Mentions
Art is Experience
Artist: Armstrong’s Braden Kiefiuk Photograph by Grace Schranz
Thompson Rivers University
TRU is more than just a university and place of learning. With many programs to encourage students the campus is a place brimming with art. Possessing paintings, murals, sculptures and more, TRU is a gallery in itself. It is easy to take a walk throughout campus enjoying the easy atmosphere and admiring the beautiful pieces it holds. Many Events held on campus are open, not just to student and faculty, but to the general public. TRU is a great place to experience new things, especially as a student. So take a walk through campus and see what else you can discover.
One Last thing
McArthur Sunset Photograph by Grace Schranz
Art is Life
No matter where you are, or who you are, Mother Nature has always been the greatest artist. It is great to go experience all Kamloops and the local artist have to offer. However, Mother Nature has her own offerings. With several close hikes and walks you can see a whole other side to the world of art. A side that many artists can find their inspiration from. Take River’s Trail over towards MacArthur and you can gaze down the river to the sunset beyond. Or go further to Battle Bluffs were the world feels like it opens up and lays out before your feet. With many more hikes and walks Kamloops has no shortages for experiencing Mother Nature and the beauty she has to offer.
Big thanks to TRU faculty, room mates, and artists. Music: Songs & Dances Excerpt – Postcards from the Sky by Marjan Mozetich (and @KamloopsSymphony) https://kamloops.me/2021/01/14/songs-dances-excerpt-postcards-from-the-sky-by-marjan-mozetich/ Santa Parade Picture sourced from https://www.kamloopsthisweek.com/community/after-a-pandemic-pre-emption-santa-claus-is-coming-back-to-town-4497261
