UNIQUELY URBAN Summit Youth Centre program co-ordinator Magali Larochelle recruited the help of local artist Shawn Wernig to bring a fresh new look to the centre. So far the response from teens who use the centre is overwhelmingly positive. Photo by Dan Walton
By Dan Walton
Pioneer Staff
After learning about a grant offered by the Home Depot Canada Foundation, Summit Youth Centre Program co-ordinator Magali Larochelle realized Invermeres youth centre was in need of refreshment and decided to apply.
Her application was successful and the grant has helped foot the cost of an upgrade. In addition to ambitious teens willing to help with the painting, local artist Shawn Wernig, who was recruited by Magali, also volunteered his time to help spruce up the space. As a result, a vibrant new mural adorns one of the walls a perfect compliment to the Summits lively atmosphere.
[The teens] loved it, Magali said. All the kids who came in said things like, No way this looks awesome! It was a very positive response.
With minimal input, Shawn used spray paint to brand the Summits wall. He said the mural is a reflection of the community, done in a manner to which youngsters can relate.
The Summit is spelled out with a graffiti-like font, surrounded by the mountains and a creative interpretation of a Sasquatch.
It was pretty boring before, but then we received a grant from the Home Depot Canada Foundation, and we painted during the spring break, said Magali. The kids came to help and they chose the colours and their colours went well with the graffiti. They wanted something more youthful.
Shawn said hell return occasionally to touch up his work, and hopefully for another project if the youth centre decides to expand the art.
I wont rest until this whole thing is covered in graffiti, he said. The ceiling, the floors…
If youre curious and want to take an up-close look at the new mural and design, or if youd like to meet Magali and see what The Summit has to offer, consider visiting their open house on Saturday 25th from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
See the place and what we do, she advises. Were a good part of the community for youth, because were the only place in town they can exclusively hang out.
All youth are welcome, especially those who have yet to go.
And they can decide afterwards if its somewhere theyd like to hang out or not, Magali said.
