Greater Trail artists, projects awarded Trust grants

Greater Trail artists, projects awarded Trust grants

Published 5:30 am Tuesday, October 20, 2026

The Columbia Basin Trust awarded $542,000 to more than 120 arts and culture projects for the 2026-27 funding cycle.

Both individuals and arts and culture organizations are eligible for funding, with the goal to facilitate arts and culture projects that enrich life in communities throughout the Basin.

The funding is distributed through the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance (CKCA), a project of the Kootenay Regional Arts Council, and grants awarded in five separate streams.

Several Greater Trail artists and projects received grants up to $2,500 including Rossland’s Landon LaFond for RAD Mountain, the Rossland Council for Arts and Culture for its Collaborative Youth Arts Project, and the Rossland Museum for an InspiRed Mountain Community Art Competition.

Trail’s Kootenay Music Festival Society earned a grant from the same fund for Kootenay Festival of the Arts 2027, Karmelle Spence-Sing for “Your Story, Your Stage” and Steve Gosselin for Youth Songwriting with Steve Marc (band).

“A heartfelt thank you to all applicants in this year’s funding cycle,” said Denise Baughan, Chair, CKCA Steering Committee. “Your creativity, passion and commitment continue to bring the Basin to life. With support from CKCA and funding from Columbia Basin Trust, artists and organizations are able to share their work, build connections and strengthen our communities.

“We’re grateful to be part of a partnership that celebrates and nurtures the vibrant spirit of the Basin.”

Minor Capital grants of up to $10,000 went to the Rossland Community Potter’s Society and the Rossland Council for Arts and Culture, as well as the Incredible Farmers Market for market performances.

Touring grants worth $5,000 each will help a dozen Kootenay artists and musicians take their talent on the road in the coming year including Nelson vocal artist Tenise Marie.

Major Projects worth up to $10,000 in funding went to 12 recipients including the Salmo Youth Theatre Program for their next production and the Tapatia Collective for the Day of the Dead Cross-cultural celebration.

Finally, under the Arts Evolution stream, 11 grants from $2,600 to $15,000 went to such projects as the Rossland Council for Arts and Culture for a visual arts exhibition and artist development initiative and the Selkirk Concert Society to support the creation of three new musical works by Columbia Basin composers.

“The Columbia Basin is a region brimming with creativity and this is one of the reasons why residents choose to make their home here,” said Angie Elsmore, Manager, Special Initiatives, Columbia Basin Trust.

“By supporting resident access to arts and culture, we support livable communities where everyone feels included and inspired.”