Art Transforms Century-Old Church in St. Walburg, Opens Gallery

UPDATE: A significant transformation is underway in St. Walburg, Saskatchewan, as a century-old church is now home to an art gallery dedicated to local artist Susan Velder. This urgent development breathes new life into the community, showcasing a lifetime of Velder’s work after years of being hidden away.

On July 31, 2023, the gallery officially opened its doors to the public, marking a momentous occasion for Velder, who is now 85 years old. Once packed into her modest home, her impressive collection of sculptures and paintings has found a new venue in the historic United Church, which held its last service in April 2023.

Local residents Bonnie Davis-Schmitz and Deb Kerr-Goodfellow spearheaded the initiative to convert the church into an art space. Davis-Schmitz explained, “We started about a year ago. Susan Velder was looking for a place to archive her artwork. Eventually, it became like, well, why wouldn’t we show the work rather than just archive it?”

The gallery features a selection of Velder’s creations, including her renowned bronze sculptures, such as the likeness of Queen Elizabeth II on her horse, Burmese, located outside the Saskatchewan Legislature. Despite her impressive portfolio, Velder’s name has not gained widespread recognition until now.

Velder expressed her gratitude for the gallery, calling it “an answer to prayer.” She elaborated, “It was full of junk art stuff,” referring to her home filled with clay portrait heads and sketches. The new gallery not only provides a space for her art but also alleviates her concerns about its future.

The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, with volunteers stepping up to support the gallery. The space will also serve as a venue for local events, with a Pumpkin Fest planned for fall and a Christmas event to follow. Kerr-Goodfellow emphasized the gallery’s mission: “We’re not about making millions; we’re about showing art.”

With hundreds of artworks still in storage, the gallery has the potential to evolve further. Velder admitted she had not held a show since returning to St. Walburg in 1986, and community members are eager to finally see her life’s work on display.

As Velder reflects on her artistic journey, she noted, “I’m really pleased that my art is taken care of.” The transformation of the church into an art gallery represents not only a new chapter for her art but also a revitalization of cultural life in St. Walburg.

This developing story highlights the power of community collaboration and the importance of preserving local art history. Keep an eye on this space as Velder’s work is set to inspire generations to come.