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Putting art under the fire

Copper and Fire showcases art, live music, kids’ activities and barbecue
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Sunday, August 13, 10-4 p.m., Brittania Beach, photo submitted

What: Copper and Fire

When: Sunday, Aug. 13, 10-4 p.m.

Where: B.C. Museum of Mining in Britannia Beach

Admission: Free

Learn about how the historic tradition of blacksmithing has become a modern-day art form; understand the ancient practice of lamp making using glass beads made from rods of glass; and witness the limitless possibilities of turning copper wire into sculptures.

All of these fire- or copper-based art practices come to light at the B.C. Museum of Mining’s signature event Copper and Fire, this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the museum.

"It’s a complete demonstration event: all of the artists will do their work on site," said Carol Watts, museum visitor services manager. "It gives people the chance to see things they don’t normally see at a normal arts event."

Members of the Burnaby Heritage Blacksmith Association, lampwork artist Colleen Price and copper wire artist Angela Hook are only three of the 10 artists showcased at the family event.

The fourth annual artisan showcase draws on the relationship between mining, mined products (or products from the earth) and the arts.

"The event primarily reflects on how important mining is in arts and today’s society," said Watts. "Our artists run the gamut."

Brian Ross of CooksArt Cutters will share his unique sculptures designed for a kitchen or workshop. Both the aesthetical and practical come together in his handcrafted art made from fine metals.

Chris "Ice Bear" Johnson brings First Nation sculpture to the mix. The Ojibway artist and member of the Chippewas of Nawash at Cape Croker will share both his sculpting and painting talents.

Lorne Flach of Vancouver Island combines graphic design with metal working to produce bronze artworks. The Alberta College of Art graduate also brings printmaking talent to the artist mix.

More than 25 years of working with glass is fused together in Judy McQuinn’s artworks. Inspired by nature, the Vancouver Islander covers everything from the whimsical to the classic.

Ojibway potter Al Price spins the wonder of pottery. The potter, sculptor and carver both creates and teaches at his studio, Sunchild Pottery in Squamish.

Jewelry maker Martina Page creates wearable works of art from her home studio in Squamish. She works with a unique combination of original metal clay and Canadian sterling silver complemented with semi-precious stones and crystal.

Bernie Hentze will also introduce silversmith art, Ronda Green pottery and Ron Lauder copper birdhouses.

In addition to the artist in action showcase, families can also participate in guided tours of Britannia Mine, live music shows, barbecue, copper crown making and panning for gold.

The Copper and Fire event is free. Mine tours are half price. Adults are $7.50, students $6.50 and family of four $25.

For more information, call 1-800-896-4044.