About Us

For about a decade, individuals in and around the Lacombe Art Guild have been enjoying expressed creativity and satisfying interactions as a result of this club’s formation.  Founded by an interested core of citizens in 2007 as “Lacombe Friends of Art”, Bob Creurer took the reins as first president; Eleanor Belair assumed the duties of secretary/treasurer and Betty Peers, Marlene Pavely and Jeanette Van Hyfte completed the core leadership.  The name changed to Lacombe Art Guild when the club became a registered society in 2009. From its inception, the Lacombe Art Guild has met at the Lacombe Memorial Centre. The recent pandemic resulted in a new online venue that opened opportunity for both distant and international instructors.  

As a registered society, this group has been fostering growth of the visual arts for developing and experienced artists in Lacombe and area.  The Guild has encouraged the production of original work among its members by means of evening and day-long workshops; by helpful critiques; by participating in local art exhibitions and sales; by partnership with the Alberta Community Art Clubs Association (ACACA), an organization that encourages art clubs throughout the province; and by encouraging the public to appreciate the value of original art work through rotating displays at the Lacombe Memorial Centre and various local businesses - the most recent being Eastside Eatery and Family Eye Care .  

The mission from the outset has been to promote artistic expression in community. We value being members of a group, knowing that the creative process is often a solitary one; and that artists can inspire, support, and teach one another.  Although primarily a club with adult members, this group has had a strong interest in youth and does not discourage their involvement. There has been encouragement and financial support for youth artists.  In 2015 the Central Zone, an area of the province that stretches from south of Edmonton to North of Calgary and border to border, had large contributions from youth in part due to LAG’s support.  Communication with art teachers in the area to inform youth about art opportunities has been a priority. 

 At a local level, the Guild recognizes and applauds Community artists, past and present, who have produced significant work in and around Lacombe for many years and former art clubs that existed prior to the Guild’s establishment.  It is also grateful for the support of the City, business community and patrons.  

Provincially we have hosted three very successful Central Zone Shows, in 2012, 2014 and 2016 for the Alberta Community Art Clubs Association (ACACA).   

Membership has been composed of people from all walks of life, all of whom share an appreciation for visual arts and the promotion of artistic achievement. Many of the members are experienced artists in their own right, while others are “newbies”. Somehow the mix of old and young, seasoned and beginners has worked wonderfully well. All have positively responded to a variety of interesting workshops taught by local and distant instructors, and the congenial atmosphere surrounding them.