Champlain Public Library and Arbor Gallery are partnering to offer two National Film Board (NFB) documentary film screenings at the Gallery this Fall. This unique program, offered to libraries by the NFB allows communities to access diverse cultural content free of charge.
The first film to be shown is Georges Hannan’s Undertaker for Life! which tackles a taboo subject by lifting the veil on the under-appreciated world of undertakers, the artisans of bereavement. The film gives a behind-the-scenes look at the funeral industry to demystify a profession many see as grim. A film that is both moving and humorous, Undertaker for Life! screens on October 23 in French with English subtitles.
The second film in the line-up is Brian D. Johnson’s The Colour of Ink, about a Toronto-based artist who makes ink using materials sourced from the natural world. Viewers will be inspired to appreciate both the beauty of the ink and the resourcefulness of the ink-maker. The Colour of Ink will be shown on November 28 in English with French subtitles.
Says Cynthia Martin, head librarian of the Champlain Public Library, “We are thrilled to launch this new movie night initiative in collaboration with Arbor Gallery. This partnership allows us to provide a unique cultural experience for the community, blending the magic of film with the vibrant art and creativity that Arbor Gallery is known for. By bringing people together in this way, we hope to foster a deeper appreciation for both visual arts and storytelling, while also creating an inclusive and engaging space for all to enjoy. The heart of our mission is promoting life-long learning, and this initiative is a perfect example of how we can inspire curiosity, discovery and growth at every stage of life.”
“Film is a medium that many of our visitors have wished we could offer. Now, thanks to this partnership, we can!” says Andrea Belcham, Artistic Director of Arbor Gallery.
The films will screen at the Gallery at 6:30 pm (doors open at 6 pm). Admission is free but attendees must pre-register by contacting the library at 613-678-2216. Light refreshments will be served. The Arbor Gallery is located at 36 Home Ave., Vankleek Hill. For more information, visit www.arborgallery.org or https://bc-cl.ca.
