The West Kootenay Regional Arts Council (WKRAC) exists to help arts, culture and heritage in the Columbia Basin thrive. To do so, we rely on a dedicated team of board members, plus steering committee members who oversee the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance (CKCA) arts and culture grants.
Who are these people? In this series, we’re introducing you to the folks behind the scenes.
Gabe Wolfe, CKCA Steering Committee Member
Living in Rossland, Gabe Wolfe works out of her garage studio making ceramic pots, exploring silk screening and etching techniques, and learning about glazes. She also works as a critical care nurse.
WKRAC: How did you come to call the Columbia Basin home?
GW: I initially moved to Fernie after living on Vancouver Island. I missed the contrast of the seasons. I think I missed winter. I took up skiing and four years later met my now-husband skiing at Whitewater. We moved to Rossland as it was a good fit for us, with easy access to the outdoor activities we like, and I get to work in a bigger hospital with more services and live in a smaller town. The pottery society in the Miners’ Union Hall was directly across the street from where we lived. Things just fell into place here.
Are you involved in arts, culture and heritage outside of your work with WKRAC/CKCA? If so, what is your discipline or practice?
Our garage is my pottery studio. I like learning and the studio is a place where I let myself explore ways of making. I didn’t think pottery would lead me to silk screening, etching and the chemistry of glaze making.
Why did you wish to join this board/committee?
I feel it is a privilege to see what creatives in our communities want to show others. If I can help to make these inspirations become a reality, then I can contribute in a small way.
What do you think people in the region should be proud of in terms of arts, culture and heritage?
We have very talented and capable artists and organizers in the Basin. I see a very inclusive and imaginative creative force here. I’m so impressed with the depth of the projects that come into being. The lived expertise of our artists and mentors is hard to comprehend.
What advice do you have for people in the region pursuing a career in arts, culture and heritage?
Everyone has their own path. Prioritize following the whims that interest you. You never know how your love of something will mesh with someone else’s and a whole new thing will come out of it.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’m grateful for the countless hours and energies that people invest of themselves in making life in our area more interesting, beautiful and meaningful.
