District Art Fair 2026
Students from across the District once again had their artwork on display at Piccadilly Mall in Salmon Arm from February 6–13, 2026, for the annual K̓wsaltktnéws ne Secwepemcúl’ecw SD83 Elementary District Art Fair. Families, community members, and visitors were invited to stroll through the mall and enjoy the vibrant collection of student‑created art pieces.
Both 2‑D and 3‑D artworks were showcased throughout the mall, transforming the space into a lively community gallery filled with colour, texture, and imagination. The event remains a much‑anticipated highlight for families and seniors, many of whom return each year to see what SD83’s young artists have created.
A special feature of the week that took place was on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, when students take part in immersive workshops led by local artists, Knowledge Keepers, an Indigenous helping teacher, a career teacher, and retired educators. These hands‑on sessions gave students the opportunity to explore career paths in the arts while learning about diverse cultural traditions, artistic styles, and creative techniques. High school student volunteers supported the day, gaining meaningful experience working with younger learners.
This year’s workshops included:
- Loom Bead Bracelets – Diane Jewell
Students created intricate patterned bracelets using bead looms inspired by Indigenous traditions. - Japanese Calligraphy – Eiko Uehara
Students received an introduction to the ancient art of calligraphy using traditional brushes, ink, and paper. - Embellishing Portraits – Dawn Scott
Students drew portraits and enhanced them with recycled fabrics, trims, and jewelry. - Block Print a Design – Christine Kashuba
Students selected pre‑carved block prints to create unique designs on paper. - Pottery – Catherine Auten
Students participated in a hands‑on pottery session where they learned foundational techniques and created a finished piece. - Pottery – Stephen Plant
Students had the opportunity to explore clay, shaping, and texture while producing a completed project. - Collage as a T‑Shirt Design – Krystyna Laycraft
Students designed colourful collages that were transferred into wearable artwork. - Cedar Mats – Jenessa Wilson
Students had the opportunity to learn how to create beautiful mats using soft cedar bark. They explored simple weaving techniques, connected with nature, and took home their own handmade mat. - Diamond Art – Judy Surkon
Students participated in a fun and creative Diamond Art workshop where they created their own sparkling masterpiece on a special canvas. - Magic Wands – Melissa Nasby
Students designed and crafted their very own magic wand using colorful materials, sparkly decorations, and a sprinkle of creativity to create a wand that’s as unique as their magical powers!
The District Art Fair is a celebration of both student creativity and the rich learning opportunities available in SD83. The event highlights the talent emerging in classrooms across the region and reflects the collaborative spirit of educators, artists, Knowledge Keepers, and community partners who support arts education.
Thank you to District Vice Principal of Early Learning Allison De boer, Principal of M.V. Beattie Mishel Quaal, and Vice Principal of M.V. Beattie Laura Tomlinson for organizing and providing this amazing opportunity for our students.
Facebook Reel dated February 12, 2026