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Events, Spare Room Gallery, Summer

On Now: Sept. 1 – Oct. 25, 2024

Clayton McLain Memorial Museum

“HANDS”

Chris Hodge was initially an abstract painter influenced by the simple yet deep texture of his prairie surroundings. More recently, he has been investigating figure work and portraits as an extension of the abstractions. The pieces in Hands could be considered semi-abstract as the shapes and colours are not natural but designed to elicit emotions in the observer.

Our hands are the vehicle by which we engage the world around us. Whether creating, caressing, destroying or other activities, our hands are an integral part of the process...

Colour and simplicity are my main concerns when painting and I like to use layers of paint, hopefully leaving a deep impression on the viewer. ” – Chris Hodge, Artist.

poster for chris hodge exhibition - hands

Hodge’s exhibit will be on display at the Spare Room Gallery through September and October 2024. Select items are for sale. Inquire with the Artist.

113 Broad Street, Cut Knife, SK
Wednesdays 1:30 – 6:30pm & Fridays 11:00am – 4pm
or by appointment. Free admission.

~ Debbie M.

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Spare Room Gallery, Summer

Tours Bookings Available

Clayton McLain Memorial Museum

If your free time just doesn’t align with the Gallery’s regular open hours, let’s talk. Group tours can be arranged with a volunteer at a time of mutual convenience. The Gallery’s goal is to serve both the artists and the arts enthusiasts of the region. Email cmmmcutknife@gmail.com to arrange your visit. Free admission. Donations gratefully accepted.

113 Broad Street, Cut Knife, SK
Wednesdays 1:30 – 6:30pm & Fridays 11:00am – 4pm
or by appointment. Sundays in July Noon – 1:30pm.

Dana Standinghorn's exhibition poster

~ Debbie M.

ovenstown registration building 1971 canvas print
Board, Fundraiser, Museum

Unexpected Expense

Clayton McLain Memorial Museum

In 2020, Ovenstown, the CMMM’s Registration and Tourist Info Centre since 1971, had to be demolished. Record-setting rains had weakened its foundation and the very tough decision was made to have it bulldozed. Artefacts, display cases, and gift shop items had to be relocated. So did its power supply.

The lines were run under the road to a new panel box near the walking path. This location was intended to serve the Duvall House for events, etc. And, it served very well until a few weeks ago when the staff began having issues with the breakers flipping. The electricians were called in and they concluded it was time to upgrade the relocation work done earlier.

Folks, the CMMM is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization. Its funders are SaskCulture, Sask Lotteries, the Town of Cut Knife, the R.M. of Cut Knife, the Cut Knife & District Rec. Board, and the very kind support of community members and visitors. The Museum has a 10-year plan and budget for the maintenance and upkeep of the 12 Heritage buildings onsite. Unfortunately, the budget does not include an invoice for electrical work.

If you would like to assist the Museum with this unexpected expense, please visit the Donation page of the website. There are details on how to donate via cash, cheque, e-transfer, and now, credit card and monthly giving through Canada Helps. Thank you, in advance, for any amount at all you’re able to donate.

~ Debbie M.

Events, Museum, Summer

The Parade Float

Clayton McLain Memorial Museum

A GROUP EFFORT

It began with the question: “Will we have a float this year?” When the answer became ‘yes’, the conversation moved to the details i.e. the theme, the presentation, the music and the candy. Then, we needed a volunteer(s) to build the World’s Second Largest Tomahawk. We needed painters and sign-makers and candy hucksters, and a trailer and a tow vehicle, and decorations. And, then, people stepped up and we found everyone and everything we needed – and it was great fun!

The Museum sincerely thanks Albert Loranger of Rockhaven for towing the float; Lisa Drake for acting as kid wrangler; Ella and Hunter Drake, Jaikob Keys, Ryan King, Elizabeth and Victoria Larson, Lillian and Aurora Pentland for the candy distribution; and Mel Lumley and Randy Strelioff for the music. Randy and Angela Garon built, painted and decorated the tipi and tomahawk.

Truly a group effort that is very much appreciated. A few photos…

Cut Knife Museum Canada Day float with children
Pulling out of the Armstrong Building to line up at CKCS with our young friends, and Lisa, and Mel.
Museum Canada Day float with children and fiddler
The World’s Second Largest Tomahawk heading out on parade for Canada Day 2024
Float leaving Tomahawk Park to line up for the parade
And, there they go…

~ Debbie M.