If you are looking for inspiration or a new place of self-discovery – the Columbia Valley is the place to be. Adding to the essential needs and foods for an artist’s soul is the always important supporter, and growing even faster than the valley’s impressive roster of hometown talent is a well-organized and appreciative audience. The most prolific of all artistically minded organizations in the valley is the Columbia Valley Arts Council (CVArts). The council, a not-for-profit organization, receives funding from government and non-government agencies such as the Columbia Basin Trust and strives to provide both a source and showcase of local, regional or national talent. CVArts stages numerous colourful and entertaining events each year, including Mountain Mosaic. The heart of the council lies in the Pynelogs Cultural Centre, which is located next to Kinsmen Beach in Invermere. Pynelogs hosts a variety of arts events including art exhibits, theatrical productions, concerts, workshops and musical festivals. The president of the CVArts is Chris Evans. Manager/ Gallery Operations is Jami Scheffer. They can be reached at 250-342-4423. In the northern valley communities, leading the way in showcasing home-grown stage talent is the Columbia Valley Music and Festivals Committee, which has become synonymous throughout the valley with Sunday afternoon variety shows at the Edgewater Community Hall. Arts in the valley also take on a less formal approach as concerts featuring local performers and international acts perform in pubs, cafés, community halls and churches throughout the valley. Culture and history are found along Main Street in Radium, down the flower-and tree-lined main street of Invermere, in the small quiet working studios of Brisco and Spillimacheen, or in and around the Windermere Artisans’ Corner, located on the corner of Sinclair Avenue and Fairmont Street in Windermere. Village Arts in downtown Invermere is a melting pot of valley arts talent. Effusion Gallery and Artym Gallery, both located in downtown Invermere feature shows throughout the year, often with artists on location. Bavin Glassworks continues to provide glassblowing and glass art demonstrations, as well as a wide range of beautiful local and regional art works.