Art After 55: A Celebration & Auction

Art After 55: A Celebration & Auction

In June 2026, WE Seniors will proudly launch a brand-new fundraising event that shines a spotlight on the creativity and talent of older adults in our community. 

Art After 55: A Celebration & Auction, hosted by WE Seniors will feature original works from artists aged 55+, including painters, photographers, potters, fibre artists, woodworkers, crafters, and creators of all kinds.

A Celebration of Creativity at Every Age

Art After 55: A Celebration & Auction is more than an art show. It is a celebration of lifelong creativity, community connection, and the belief that it’s never too late to try something new.

We invite artists, supporters, families, and community members to join us in honouring the incredible talent of older adults — and in helping us build a more beautiful, welcoming Centre for everyone.

This special event will take place during the Older, Bolder, Better Symposium & Tradeshow on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at River Cree Casino. A VIP preview will be held the evening before at the OBB Business Mixer on June 3, 2026.

Why This Event Matters

The goal of Art After 55: A Celebration & Auction, hosted by WE Seniors is to raise $5,000 to support improvements and beautification of the Westend Seniors Activity Centre. But the heart of this event goes far beyond fundraising.

It’s about celebrating the message that trying something new never grows old.

Many of the artists who will participate discovered their creative side later in life. Others have been creating for decades. Every piece tells a story — of curiosity, courage, learning, and joy. This event is a chance to honour those stories and share them with the wider community.

Who Can Participate

We are inviting two groups of artists to be part of Art After 55: A Celebration & Auction, hosted by WE Seniors:

1. WE Seniors members, art students, and instructors aged 55+
   Many of our members have explored new mediums, taken classes, and found new passions at the Centre. This event gives them a platform to share their creativity with the community.
2. Local community artists aged 55+
   Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, we welcome you. Your donated piece will help support a community space that serves thousands of older adults each year.

What Kind of Art Are We Looking For?

We welcome all forms of original art, including:

• Paintings
• Drawings
• Photography
• Pottery
• Sculpture
• Fibre arts
• Woodwork
• Mixed media
• Artisan crafts

If it reflects your passion and creativity, we would love to include it in Art After 55: A Celebration & Auction, hosted by WE Seniors.

What Artists Need to Submit

To participate, artists must complete a submission form via our website (below) or in person at our centre that includes:

• A short artist bio
• A description of the artwork being donated

Both write‑ups are required for acceptance into the show.

Important Dates

To participate in Art After 55: A Celebration & Auction, hosted by WE Seniors, artists must meet the following deadlines:

• Confirm participation by: February 15, 2026
• Artwork drop‑off deadline: April 30, 2026
• VIP Launch: June 3, 2026
• Public Display & Auction: June 4, 2026 (bidding closes at noon)

All donated pieces will be displayed during the Symposium and auctioned to support Centre improvements.

Questions? 

Please contact

Rose Bilou at ro********@*******rs.ca
Lorena Iceton at lo***********@*******rs.ca

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