PASSPORT TO THE ARTS 2025 and Hiking for PAFF

Last Sunday Victoria and I, Samantha, travelled to 1124 - 15th Street NW in Calgary to participate in the Passport to the Arts 2025 Exhibition, hosted by Irene Naested, It was a vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and local talent. The event ran on Sunday, September 14th, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and it truly lived up to its name—offering attendees a “passport” into the diverse worlds of visual art, music, poetry, and artisan craft.

Here’s a snapshot of what made the day so special:

Featured Artists & Vendors

• Victoria showcased her paintings that drew in curious visitors and collectors alike. Her booth was described as a beacon of color and introspection, with business cards flying off the table like hot commodities.

• A mix of local painters, ceramicists, textile artists, and jewelry makers filled the venue, offering everything from bold canvases to delicate handmade earrings.

• The vibe was interactive—many artists worked live, giving attendees a glimpse into their process.

Live Music & Performances

• Bagpipes, individual artists and an amazing band helped the day move along happily involving local acoustic acts and folk-inspired performers that added a mellow, welcoming soundtrack to the day.

• The outdoor setup allowed for spontaneous jam sessions and audience engagement, with families and art lovers lounging in shaded areas while enjoying the tunes.

Poets & Spoken Word

• Calgary’s literary scene made its mark with pop-up poetry readings and spoken word performances. These were woven into the day’s schedule, often taking place between musical sets or near quieter corners of the venue.

• Themes ranged from nature and identity to urban life and emotional healing—echoing the introspective tone of many visual pieces on display.

Atmosphere & Community

• The weather was hot enough to “melt acrylics,” but shaded tents and breezy corners kept spirits high.

• The event was family-friendly, with kids exploring art stations and adults engaging in meaningful conversations with creators.

  

  

  

OUR HIKING ADVENTURES

Victoria and I have been visiting with locals as we prepare for next year’s PAFF groups (Plein Air For Fun), and it’s been a quietly eye-opening journey.

The landscapes just outside Calgary are more varied and beautiful than I ever realized—rolling fields, wooded paths, and quiet corners that seem to invite you to pause and take them in.

Many of these places are less than half an hour from the city, yet they feel worlds away. We’re excited to share some of the views we’ve discovered, and hope they’ll inspire others to explore and create in the spaces that surround them.