Colouring the Community: The Evolving Story of the Boissevain-Arts Council

The story of the Boissevain‑Morton Arts Council begins in 1990, when a group of local businesspeople came together with a shared vision: to bring the community’s history to life through outdoor murals and strengthen local tourism. Their efforts resulted in more than twenty professionally painted murals that still brighten the community today, each one capturing a piece of Boissevain’s past in vivid colour.

In 2016, a new wave of residents gathered to broaden the Council’s purpose. They crafted a mission focused on making the arts accessible through education, public art, and support for local artists. This renewed direction also led to the Arts Council taking over the Arts Hall—first as tenants and now as owners—where ongoing renovations are transforming the space into a vibrant creative hub.

Today, the Arts Council offers a wide range of programming and services. Youth art classes run throughout the fall, winter, and summer, giving young people a place to explore their creativity. The Arts Hall also provides rental space for music lessons taught by instructors from Brandon University and local musicians. The Boissevain-Morton Recreation Department operates the Gymnastics program on the upper floor of the Hall. Beyond programming, the Council collaborates with businesses to secure mural locations, obtains funding for new mural projects, and maintains the existing collection. The Artisan Market at the Irvin Goodon International Wildlife Museum is an essential initiative, offering local makers a place to sell their work while supporting both the Arts Council and the Museum.

What sets the Arts Council apart is its commitment to providing meaningful artistic opportunities in a rural setting. It offers youth a place to express themselves and ensures that the arts remain accessible.

Community support has been steady and encouraging. While many residents may not realize the full scope of the Council’s work, those who participate in programs express strong appreciation. Local businesses have also been consistent partners, contributing to a culture where organizations support one another.

The Arts Council gives back by keeping programs affordable, enhancing the community through public art, and helping local artisans connect with broader audiences. Still, one ongoing challenge is increasing awareness—ensuring residents understand who the Arts Council is and the breadth of its offerings.

Looking ahead, there are promising opportunities. Renovations to the Arts Hall will open new possibilities, with significant updates planned for 2026. A new initiative, Community Studio Night, begins in February and will run on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. For a small fee, participants can bring their own creative projects—whether painting, knitting, writing, or another craft—and work alongside others in a relaxed, collaborative environment. The hope is that this program will grow into additional classes or creative gatherings.

The Arts Council also contributes to the local economy by hiring a summer student each year, supporting both Arts Council and Museum programming. Although the board is currently volunteer-run, there is interest in hiring a part-time administrator to help expand programming, strengthen promotion, and secure funding.

Collaboration remains central to the Council’s work. Partnerships with the municipality, local businesses, the Wildlife Museum, Sawmill Tea & Coffee Co., and music instructors help bring events, murals, and programs to life.

Future goals include hiring a permanent part-time employee, continuing renovations to the Arts Hall, revitalizing existing murals, creating new ones, and recruiting additional board members and volunteers. Strengthening financial stability, expanding programming, maintaining a regular newsletter, and increasing the Council’s visibility—especially online—will all play essential roles in supporting long-term success.

For anyone considering starting an organization in Boissevain, the Arts Council’s experience offers clear guidance: collaboration is essential, and working with the community's existing strengths leads to better outcomes for everyone.

At the heart of it all is the community itself. Boissevain is known for its welcoming, inclusive atmosphere and its commitment to working together. The Arts Council reflects that spirit—creative, collaborative, and dedicated to making the community more vibrant for everyone who calls it home.