New Arts and Crafts Projects in the Works

Columbia Basin residents can learn about themselves, their region, its past and its people by being engaged through arts and culture.To help make this happen, 123 arts and culture projects are receiving more than $542,000 in 2026/27 from Columbia Basin Trust. The funding is distributed through the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance (CKCA), a project of the Kootenay Regional Arts Council.

“A heartfelt thank you to all applicants in this year’s funding cycle. Your creativity, passion and commitment continue to bring the Basin to life,” said Denise Baughan, Chair, CKCA Steering Committee. “With support from CKCA and funding from Columbia Basin Trust, artists and organizations are able to share their work, build connections and strengthen our communities. We’re grateful to be part of a partnership that celebrates and nurtures the vibrant spirit of the Basin.”

Here is an examples of a supported arts and culture project. To view the full list of approved projects visit here.

Golden-based artist Sarah Jane Osadetz is creating a series of mixed-media paintings that focus on Golden’s Edelweiss Village, the historic home of the Swiss mountain guides who helped establish mountaineering in the Canadian Rockies. The project will culminate in an exhibition and artist talk.

“My show will depict and honour the Edelweiss Swiss Village, the Swiss guides’ legacy, their heritage homestead and their portfolio of first ascents that defined their individual careers,” says Osadetz. “The paintings will bring attention to a protected cultural landmark, strengthening cultural awareness, contributing to regional storytelling, and offering accessible ways for the community to connect with the landscape and its adventure heritage.”

CKCA funding is available to both individuals and arts and culture organizations. All arts disciplines are eligible (including visual art, theatre, music, dance, media, literary and inter-arts), as are cultural projects like traditional cultural practices and preserving languages. Separate granting streams target different focuses, such as individual and group projects, master classes, touring and major exhibition projects. Overall, the goal is to facilitate exceptional arts and culture projects that animate and enrich life in the Basin.

“The Columbia Basin is a region brimming with creativity and this is one of the reasons why residents choose to make their home here,” said Angie Elsmore, Manager, Special Initiatives, Columbia Basin Trust. “By supporting resident access to arts and culture, we support livable communities where everyone feels included and inspired. The Trust is proud to partner with the Kootenay Regional Arts Council to help bring projects to life.”

Learn more at kootenayartscouncil.com/ckca-funding.