“How deep is the ocean, how high is the sky?” Words from a popular song of long ago. This phrase describes the broad spectrum of the arts in general and to the talent displayed at the Capreol Youth Artsfest during the August long week end in particular.

On the Saturday there was a steady stream of viewers viewing the art exhibits, accompanied by the soothing sounds of music by Bach and Handel. The art works ranged from paintings, (landscapes – one in the Impressionist style, portraits, abstracts, still life) to woodworking, crocheting, photography, poetry, modeling plus a unique diorama. Over a hundred people passed through, leaving with comments such as, “awesome, impressive, fantastic, excellent, do it next year, surprising, remarkable.” All this in response to the very high calibre of the imaginative art expressions on display.

On the Sunday the young performance artists took the stage. With the visual arts still on display it made a total arts ambience. The audience filled the hall and its vestibule. They were treated to the offerings of bands, classical violin, dancing and singing. As with the visual arts, the performances were of a very high level. The joint was rocking, as they say. Music varied from Ozbourne to Handel, from the Eagles to Disney. The audience showed their appreciation with loud and enthusiastic applause.

When the Artsfest was first suggested we didn’t know if any of the young artists wanted to show their work. The answer came back with a resounding “YES!” Future plans for the Artsfest include a series of winter workshops, led by local artists. And, of course, Artsfest ’08.

The outstanding success of the festival is due to the Herculean efforts of the creative team who planned the event. But also due to the generous contributions of several financial supporters. The support of several media outlets in the city. The local music teacher who set up and operated the fantastic sound equipment. The parents of the artists for encouraging them. The Trinity United Church for donating the facility. The organizers of the Heritage Days. Although the Artsfest and Heritage Days are two separate entities the spirit of cooperation between the two groups was second to none.

But most of all we salute the dedicated and talented young artists themselves; they are terrific! All of the artists, both visual and performance are aged 18 and under!
See you at Artsfest ‘08

Michael Shepherd