Celebrating and Creating in Community: Cool Arts Takes Center Stage at Central Okanagan FCC
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by
Caroline Pinheiro
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On February 19th, from 10 AM to 1 PM, arc programs – Family Connection Centre (FCC) opened its doors to celebrate art, community, and the power of creative collaboration. This event marked a significant milestone that not only showcased unique commissioned artworks but also honoured the inspiring journey that connected diverse artistic talents with the local community.
A Connection That Ignited a Movement
It began with a meaningful connection between Tracey Beckett, FCC Care Coordinator Practice Lead, and Rachael, Executive Director of Cool Arts. In late 2023, Diane—a newcomer from France—arrived in Kelowna and soon became both an instructor and a board member at Cool Arts after a warm introduction by Debbie Nicholson. Drawing inspiration from her experiences at L’Arche, Diane launched weekly Saturday painting workshops in the spring of 2024. These sessions rapidly grew into a thriving, close-knit artistic community.
Reflecting on the journey, Diane expressed:
“These workshops quickly evolved into a close-knit artistic community, where participants forged strong bonds through their creations. After completing several individual projects, we embarked on a collective piece: ‘Embracing Diversity’, a self-portrait of the class.”
Moved by the creative dialogue, Rachael shared the evolving project with Tracey. Recognizing its transformative power, Tracey passed the story on to Candice Henriques, CEO of arc programs. This pivotal exchange sparked a visionary commission celebrating local talent and the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
A Commission That Celebrates Identity and Place
The commission by arc programs – Family Connection Centre resulted in the creative projects:
- Embracing Diversity: A single acrylic painting on cardboard (60 x 200 cm) created in May 2024 by eight Cool Arts students, this project captures fleeting sketches of their daily lives through vibrant, bold colors and dynamic brushstrokes. Influenced by Norval Morrisseau’s style, it interweaves elements of nature—plants, quails, and fish—to celebrate cultural and personal diversity while reflecting the natural richness of the Okanagan Valley.
- Inhabiting Paradise Valley: This triptych—one cohesive work measuring 60 x 200 cm—was crafted in August 2024 by Cool Arts students, offering a panoramic view of Kelowna as seen from Knox Mountain. The piece uses a harmonious blend of warm oranges and yellows with cool blues and greens, employing simplified shapes, clean lines, and stylized birds and vegetation to evoke both the vibrant energy of urban life and the serene beauty of the natural landscape.
- Series: Discovering the Okanagan: Comprising seven individual paintings (each 18 in x 24 in) created in July 2024 by different Cool Arts students, this series invites viewers to explore the Okanagan through a poetic lens. Each piece features the silhouette of a native wild animal filled with a local scene, using acrylic and pastel to merge vibrant colors and expressive brushstrokes with a surreal, Magritte-inspired style that highlights personal perspectives and the diverse beauty of the region.
Enhancing the professional quality of these artworks, board member and former woodworking teacher Wulf Gerhardt crafted custom frames that provided a refined finish, underscoring the significance of this inclusive art project in both cultural and economic contexts.
A Day of Art and Connection at FCC
The February 19th celebration at FCC was more than an art exhibition—it was an immersive experience that brought artists and the community together. Participants had the chance to meet the creators behind the commission, engage in creative activities, and even contribute to art-making alongside the talented individuals who brought these projects to life. This interactive session beautifully demonstrated art’s power to unite, inspire, and forge lasting bonds.
A particularly moving moment during the event was seeing Jordan Lige, Cool Arts member and son of founder Sarah Lige, beam with pride upon discovering one of his artworks displayed. Jordan, who enthusiastically participates in the weekly painting workshops, shared his dream of continuing to create and sell his art.
“I sold my painting and that made me super proud! I am a real artist.”
— Jordan Lige, Cool Arts artist
Moments like this highlight the heart of the initiative—empowering individuals to find their voice through creativity and celebrate each other’s growth. The atmosphere at FCC was one of connection, joy, and mutual support.
“I truly believe that our success is born from unity. When we lift each other up and turn individual dreams into a collective vision, we pave the way for a future where everyone thrives.”
— Candice Henriques
Looking Ahead
This event stands as a testament to the impact of inclusive art in our community. What started as a meaningful connection between Diane and Tracey has blossomed into a celebrated initiative that not only adorns spaces with unique, narrative-rich artwork but also reaffirms the importance of recognizing and supporting local, diverse artistic talent.
For arc programs Central Okanagan Family Connection Centre, this celebration is both a reflection of our commitment to community engagement and a promise for future collaborations that continue to honour diversity, inclusion, and creativity. We are excited to build on this momentum and welcome more partnerships that illuminate the transformative power of art.
More about Cool Arts:
Cool Arts Society is a non-profit organization based in Kelowna that offers art opportunities for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) living in the Central Okanagan. Through visual arts, Cool Arts provides a welcoming space where individuals can express themselves, grow their talents, and take
their place in the local cultural scene.
The organization works to increase their visibility in the art community, celebrate their unique creativity, and recognize the cultural and economic value of their contributions. Whether through workshops, exhibitions, or collaborations, Cool Arts builds meaningful connections and puts inclusion and the beauty of diversity at the heart of everything they do.
To learn more or get involved: coolarts.ca
Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/coolartssociety
Contact us: secretary@coolarts.ca
More about arc programs Central Okanagan Family Connection Centre (FCC):
The Central Okanagan Family Connection Centre (FCC) offers individual and group-based prevention, treatment and support services designed to help families with children and youth ages 0-18 achieve their developmental goals. These children may have developmental support needs, neurodiversity, or disabilities. A diagnosis is not required to access the FCC.
The FCC focuses on enhancing quality of life for families, by promoting inclusiveness and independence, through increased access to a broad range of supportive therapies and community services. Your child can access a comprehensive range of services at the FCC, depending on their needs.
To learn more or get involved: arcprograms.com/fcc
Follow us on Facebook: Facebook
Contact us: fcc@arcprograms.com
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