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Abbotsford Arts Council hosts two artists in residence

Pair involved in workshops and recordings through end of March
85417abbotsfordKaritonArtGallery
Kariton Art Gallery

The Abbotsford Arts Council (AAC) has welcomed local songwriters Simon Bridgefoot and Kristin Witko into its Kariton Art Gallery for an unconventional artists’ residence.

The musicians are stationed in the gallery during closed and open hours for a six-month residence that will engage community members in creativity-focused workshops.

The residence, titled In Real Life, culminates in a music album incorporating content generated by workshops and other encounters with members of the public.

Bridgefoot is a songwriter, producer, DJ, and multi-instrumentalist noted for his work with Canadian indie luminaries Jordan Klassen and Teen Daze.

Witko is a singer-songwriter, top 40 pop music lyricist, and former backup vocalist for indie band You Say Party.

Their residency began Nov. 1 and ends March 31, and Bridgefoot and Witko will be recording their album during on Saturdays from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Visitors to the gallery will be welcome to observe them, talk to them, and even potentially join the recording process.

The pair will also offer workshops to help participants learn about singing, songwriting and recording.

“They want to help people use music as a mental health tool and as a way for connecting with others,” said Sophia Suderman, AAC executive director.

The free workshops run from 2:30 and 4:30 p.m.:

– Mindful Singing: Harnessing Breath and Body Awareness to Improve and Enjoy Your Voice, Jan. 14 and Feb. 18;

– Recording Music Fearlessly: Mindsets and Techniques for Recording Music Without Rules, Jan. 28 and March 4;

– How to Write Songs—No Instruments Required, Feb. 4 and March 11.

To register for the workshops, visit abbotsfordartscouncil.com.