By K.A. Pendergast
There’s a new centre open in town and it’s called the Hub.
Nope, not the old gas station Clearwater used to have (long-time residents will understand that) but the newest one— also called the Opportunity Centre.
Greeting those dropping in is Hi honey, I’m Homer, a sculpture with a face grinning out from a green tree.
A tree you say? That’s right.
Although a bit surprising, the sculpture was co-created by Chuck and Donna Grove, owners’ of the Hub, and a guest of their Bed and Breakfast. The guest casted the face of the sculpture and then was able to make it green.
She came to visit and experience the wonder of Clearwater’s area with the Groves and while visiting she learned a sculpture lesson or two from the pair, who’ve now made a decision to expand and come into town, spreading their unique talents with the community.
This centre has made many wonder just what was going at the location, so here’s the scoop: the Groves made the move in an effort to spread encouragement and teach others.
Donna has trained in a variety of soft sculpture elements—painting, drawing, sculpture as well as a few others and she also teaches some engaging and money-saving up-cycling sewing techniques called Up-cycling Chic.
These are just a few of the options. There were some wolves carved from Styrofoam in the windows, with the light from outside filtering in to outline the shapes of their bodies. She uses sustainable materials only and all are non-toxic.
Some of her drawings and paintings have been posted on the Clearwater Infoboard on Facebook. The Hub will also have classes, so call or drop in if interested. The location will have some dry storage options for painters who have no room at home.
As for Chuck, he’s a born entertainer with talents including oration and singing. He said his favourite quote is: “Anything is possible.”
This Hub Getaway by Design Opportunity Centre will offer a variety of class options with memberships costing $40 per month, which includes eight hours worth of classes of one’s choice, and also some free drawing classes thrown in.
There’s an option available to members where one can bring a project from home and use the space at the Hub if space at home is limited.
There will also be some wax sculpture classes and a few other options coming up that haven’t yet been advertised. So, if one wants to teach a class and needs space, or take a class that’s offered, have a chat and see what you can figure out with the Groves.
While the owners are still getting organized they said they’d love to find out what people in the valley would like to learn and do.
“Now is a good time for everybody to be creative, creative families raise the cultural identity of the whole community,” said Donna.
The Hub is open Wednesday through Saturday, beginning at 10 a.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m.
Head on down, check out the centre and say hello to Chuck and Donna! Oops, don’t forget Homer too.