Sussex delights guests of Arbor Gallery with blues and wit

On Friday evening, guests enjoyed talented duo Sussex on Friday evening, April 22, in the first of Arbor Gallery’s Intimate Concerts series.

Singer songwriter Rob Lutes charmed the crowd with a variety of blues and folk songs delivered in a warm, raspy voice, engaging with the audience with interesting historical descriptions and anecdotes. Vibraphonist Michael Emenau, seasoned and passionate jazz musician accompanied Lutes in a memorable performance.

The duo praised the beautiful historical venue, commenting on its exceptional acoustic and expressed their wish to return for other concerts in the future.

“The sound in our historical building was magical,” says Sylvie Bouchard of the gallery. “It felt as though the entire building was singing along with them.”

Tom Cooper charmed audience

Also starting a new series, ‘Conversations with Interesting People’, Tom Cooper presented his humorous writing, by reading from his three books to a lively and enthusiastic audience on Saturday evening (April 23).

Mingling with old friends and new ones, Cooper presented his “mostly true” stories – recounting life as a child and anecdotes with family and friends.

“Guests just loved the evening,” Bouchard said. “We are sure to invite Tom again to present his upcoming fourth book, which is allegedly set to mimic his life in Vankleek Hill, and are looking forward to it.”

Gallery Backroom Art Sale and new exhibition for May

For four days only, from Thursday April 28 to Sunday May 1, the Arbor Gallery is holding a fundraising art sale. Slashed prices for posters, paintings, prints and much more from the donated art collection will be offered in the Main Exhibition Hall.

Starting on May 5, local artists Maggie Dean and Brunhild Schierding present a collection of their works titled Just Horsing Around from May 5 to 29. A vernissage will be held on May 7, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Arbor Gallery Cultural Centre is located at 36 Home Avenue, at the heart of Vankleek Hill, and can be reached at [email protected]. More information about programming and events on Arbor Gallery’s Facebook page, website, and on Twitter or by subscribing to the gallery’s newsletter at www.arborgallery.org