This weekend’s The Steel Spirit Art Exhibition will feature the artwork of about nine military members, veterans, first responders and hospital practitioners as part of the 5th Street Community Cultural Festival.

Barbara Brown, founder of The Steel Spirit, put a call out for submissions locally in June.

The exhibit promises an inspiring showcase of artwork and personal stories.

“Every exhibition tells a collection of stories. Every artist brings something unique. And behind it all is someone who continues to believe that art matters and that people matter,” said Lee- Ann LeMesurier, participating artist. “Volunteers like Barb are an important part of what makes a community stronger. Her work demonstrates that supporting the arts is not simply about displaying artwork on a wall. It is about creating opportunities for connection, encouraging creativity, giving people a platform, and making space for stories that might otherwise go unheard. For me, being a contributing artist to The Steel Spirit has been about more than participating in an exhibition. It has been an opportunity to be part of something meaningful and to witness firsthand the care and passion that Barb puts into creating these experiences for others.”

With support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, 5th Street Creative Initiatives, a registered non-profit charity, uses theatre, music, and art therapy to bring together children, youth, seniors, and vulnerable communities.

The gallery will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 22-28 at the Station on the Green. An opening reception takes place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22, with talks and music by emerging 5th Street Creative songwriters at 2 p.m.

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