A vibrant blend of art and community spirit filled the Portage Learning and Literacy Centre (PLLC) last week during a special Paint Night for women and seniors.
Participants created their own interpretations of Vincent van Gogh’s Wheatfield Under Thunderclouds, guided by local artist Mi Young Kim.
Summer palette sparks joy
Kim selected the iconic Impressionist work for its bold summer tones and accessible style, noting its resemblance to Manitoba’s landscapes.
Mi Young Kim explains, "I prepared the Vincent van Gogh picture, and the picture's name is Wheat Field Under Thunderclouds. When I saw the picture, I saw that it looked like a canola field. His painting uses bold colours, so I think it goes well in the summertime right now; blue colour, lots of clouds and a yellow field."
Sweet connections
Over a dozen attendees enjoyed painting, lively conversation, and homemade snacks. Kim appreciated the shared effort to pause busy summer schedules.
Mi Young Kim shared, "Usually we are all busy doing something in the summertime, but it's nice when you take the time to relax and chat and paint. One of the participants brought delicious cookies, so we are enjoying this."
Young helper shines
Fifth-grader Gabe added youthful energy, assisting settlement coordinator Robin Bourke while crafting another vibrant scene.
Gabe described the artwork, saying: "It has like blue on it with like a storm cloud and like grass with like red trees on it. And yeah, and green grass."
When asked about the experience, Gabe beamed, "I loved helping out with Robin and painting," adding an eager "Yes!" about returning.
The event blended artistic discovery with intergenerational bonding, leaving Van Gogh’s stormy skies shining brighter in Portage la Prairie.