Humboldt is becoming widely known for its active and vibrant arts scene, and a good part of that reputation is owing to the efforts of the staff and volunteers with the city’s Cultural Services Department.
Director Jennifer Fitzpatrick has sent along the following overview of the department's activities in 2024 with an invitation to watch for much more coming in 2025.
2024 was filled with genuine moments of connection with community that we are honoured to facilitate through our exhibits and programs.
Our department engaged over 175 creative folks – such as artists, writers, musicians, crafters, artisans, heritage trades folks, and just wonderful community folks who are willing to share their talents with the community! We supported local residents in sharing the talents with the community. We hosted community fun events such as Writers Night, Come Create with us, Trivia Nights, Escape Rooms, Ice cream day, Scavenger Hunts, craft activities, summer lunch concerts and barbecues, painting classes, …and so many energetic students visiting our sites to learn and explore.
At the gallery, visitors could view the art of professional artists presenting their new works, exploring new ideas, or challenging current thinking. We supported emerging artists who were taking their first steps in showing their works, or thinking of creating an exhibit for their community. We were thankful to expand our offerings to the second floor of the gallery.
The Water Tower had an incredible summer season, with an increase in attendance, private tours and rentals. We tried opening the tower for tours in the evening and that success will carry through to next year!
At Original Humboldt, we continue to expand the knowledge of the site through scientific research about our shared past. We partnered with the University of Saskatchewan Department of Archaeology and Anthropology to coordinate student archaeological excavations and research at the site.
At the museum, we shared community stories – through exhibits such as HomeGrown – Celebrating the 2024 Inductees in the Humboldt & District Sports Hall of Fame which featured inductees Ryan Schedlosky, Jocelyne Moe, Lyndon Rush, Brianne Thiesen-Eaton and Michael Suchan. Visitors could view their stories, but also be inspired by hearing about their journeys and how they overcame obstacles. The Stories of Humboldt exhibit reminds us of our regional history through items from Angelstad Quick Cobbler or the Dafoe Air Force Base.
We celebrated milestones such as the 25th anniversary of the Friends Festival Auction, which has become a community holiday favourite event, and the 30th anniversary of the Friends of the Museum and Gallery.