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Painting Ourselves Visible group to create mural

A new partnership between Kootenay Gallery of Art and Castlegar Pride
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LGBTQ+ Youth will be painting themselves visible in Castlegar

Painting Ourselves Visible is a new partnership between Kootenay Gallery of Art and Castlegar Pride. This project, a collaborative mural, will increase safety and visibility for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth in Castlegar.

A group of youth will collaborate monthly to create a mural and explore identity through a variety of media.

“Through the process of making art, individuals can determine how they see themselves and want to be portrayed, as opposed to seeing either stereotyped images of themselves or little or no representation at all in media,” says Maggie Shirley, curator at the Kootenay Gallery. “It can be a very affirmative and empowering process, particularly for youth.”

A series of local artists working with the youth will provide mentorship valuable insight into the art-making process.

The Painting Ourselves Visible group will meet monthly from February until June to create the mural. The final product is set to be unveiled at Humble Bean in June.

“The downtown business community is always looking for ways to support LGBTQ+ folks and youth,” said Kim Mamos, owner of Humble Bean. “The value of being fully oneself and fully accepted can’t be overestimated. We imagine a Castlegar where everyone is accepted and feels safe.”

Youth who are interested in participating can contact Nicole Hergert to find out more and register to be part of the group.