There’s still time to download the 2024 Prescott-Russell Arts Council (CAPRAC) colouring book.
The colouring book, first launched by CAPRAC four years ago, is an initiative in honour of National Culture Days, celebrated across the country this year from Sept. 12 to Oct. 13.
Fifteen artists from across the United Counties of Prescott-Russell (UCPR), including several from Clarence-Rockland, contributed original drawings to this year’s colouring book. The theme, “Culture in Colour,” encouraged artists to showcase unique aspects of the region’s culture. The book features a total of 23 drawings.
“There was a time when we couldn’t offer events in person, so this colouring book was something we thought of during COVID,” said Yanik Gosselin, CAPRAC projects coordinator, in an interview with The Vision. “This is such a fun activity, and every year we have more and more people interested—whether sending in a drawing for the book or looking forward to seeing what we come up with.”
CAPRAC encourages residents with an artistic or creative flair to download the drawings, add their colours, and share their creations on social media, allowing them to showcase their limitless creativity.
“We know we have a lot of people across our community who enjoy art, and this colouring book allows them to tap into their creative side or try something they never had before,” added Gosselin. “This is a way of connecting the community through art and getting more people involved in these artistic projects.”
France Smith, who moved to Rockland five years ago, is one of the artists who contributed to CAPRAC’s colouring book this year.
“I wasn’t a member [of CAPRAC] at the time, but my friend sent me the newsletter with a call for submissions for the colouring book,” recalled Smith. “I drew two pieces and submitted them, and here we are.”
Smith is a third-generation artist from a family with a long line of creatives.
“I have always had this vivid imagination,” she added.
Smith hopes to inspire others to pursue art through her contributions to CAPRAC’s 2024 colouring book. She believes the book encourages people of all ages to try something new or gain confidence in their own artistic pursuits.
“If for even five minutes a day, they pick up a pencil and start doodling or colouring something I created, that makes it worth it,” she said. “There’s no harm in trying. If you want to colour, go colour.”
CAPRAC was officially inaugurated in March 2014 with the aim of supporting the development of artists, organizations, and all those involved in arts, culture, and heritage activities. It is a not-for-profit organization managed by a board of dedicated volunteers. CAPRAC raises public awareness of artists, organizations, and activities in the UCPR.
For more information, visit caprac.ca.
