For art lovers in Lacombe, this weekend was an exciting time as a new art gallery celebrated its grand opening.

Formerly known as The Gallery on Main, The Main Gallery and Framing Studio invited the public for food, drinks and a chance to check out work from local artist Christel Langan along with other Alberta artists.

June Lundie took over the gallery in July and said it’s been a busy summer getting it ready for the fall.

“I just spent the summer cleaning it up, painting, renovating, bringing new artists in and had just kind of a soft opening (a couple weeks ago). But I wanted to wait until all the moms and dads got back to September, got their kids back in school, and had some time to browse art and see what Lacombe has.”

Lundie said having a strong art presence in a community has many benefits, especially when it comes to youth.

“Like sports, I believe art instills confidence in kids and parents can say hockey does, and it does, but if they’re not into sports let them do art and encourage them and say ‘that’s beautiful’ and you can just see them light up. It’s just exciting.”

Every third Saturday of each month, the gallery will host “Artist in the House” featuring an artist and their artwork, along with a silent auction.

Proceeds from the auction will go towards a charity of choice, with this month being the Alberta MS Society.

The gallery also offers other painting related activities such as paint classes and paint party’s.

Click here to visit their Facebook Page.

Following the event, owner June Lundie (left) made a cheque presentation to Tara Maloney (right) of the MS Society Central Region.   $870 in donations was raised through silent auction items donated by area businesses at the Grand Opening and Art Reception on September 23rd.