A party for the arts. That’s what the West Shore Arts Council is calling its latest fundraiser, Arise, taking place this month.
“This is an evening of arts engagement,” arts council president Laura Davis said.
The event includes guest artists Maureen Washington and Daniel Cook, live painting, interactive art, appies and DJ Adam Hennessy.
There will be a silent auction including two VIP three-day passes to Rock the Shores, spa and bath day passes from the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, an adventure with Zipline Adventures and a staycation for two at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort in Sooke.
There will also be a live auction where a guitar signed by Metchosin’s Jesse Roper and a piece of art that will be painted live by Linda Anderson will be up for grabs.
RELATED: Langford kicks in for more West Shore arts programming
The fundraiser also coincides with the arts council’s 30th anniversary. Originally started in Langford, as part of an agreement with the City to start arts programming, the arts council has since expanded to include the other western communities, as well as disciplines such as film, performance theatre, dance and music.
“It’s quite amazing with all the hard work everyone has done to keep the arts alive on the West Shore. At times, there has been virtually no funding, so we have to be very creative with our grant writing,” said Davis, noting she hopes to raise between $6,000 and $8,000.
“It’s always important to celebrate the arts. Where we can find pathways to engage with our community, we love to do that and we love to have fun while we do it.”
RELATED: Lantern making workshops guide way to annual event
Money raised will go towards the youth at risk program called West Shore Music Port Band Program, which is co-funded through the British Columbia Arts Council.
As part of the program, the arts council and Westshore Music Academy encourage youth in local schools and foster programs to start their own bands.
Other funds will go towards engagement such as potentially a new festival somewhere in the West Shore.
Arise takes place on Saturday, April 21 from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Royal Colwood Golf and Country Club (629 Goldstream Ave.) Tickets are $25. For more information visit westshorearts.org.
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
kendra.wong@goldstream