Mission Statement
Our mission is to inspire and help individuals discover and embrace their artistic identity, fostering a collective sense of creativity that enriches and unites our regional communities.
Winnipeg River Arts is passionately dedicated to enhancing the North Eastman Region by providing support, empowerment, and connectivity through the arts
Services
WRAC looks forward to serving residents, visitors, artists and arts groups within the Winnipeg River corridor (east of Highway 11 and north of Highway 317). The region is culturally diverse and home to many talented artists and arts organizations that provide opportunities for arts and culture. WRAC’s regional structure will help community arts organizations, schools and recreation services work together to plan larger regional arts initiatives by facilitating the sharing of resources, information and talents. WRAC seeks to contribute to economic grow by promoting the region’s arts and cultural assets to residents and tourists.
Artist Of The Month
Kayla Bilodeau – Focus on Local Artists – Issue #162
May 2026
Kayla Bilodeau
For this month, WRAC features visual artist Kayla Bilodeau. Although she spent some time living in Winnipeg, she grew up in Pine Falls and now calls Lac du Bonnet her current hometown.
She said, “I dabble in a bit of everything. I started out with oils as my primary medium, then ventured into acrylics later on. I would say this is presently my primary medium.”
Every now and then, she ventures into watercolours using both water colour pencils and paint. For deep contrast and colour, she uses acrylics. For soft subtle paintings, she uses water colours.
Bilodeau appreciates colours, dimensions, shapes, and contrast. She is drawn to these things, and they inspire her to paint or draw. Also, she has always been attracted to the realism and depth that can be achieved in a painting. And she prefers a realistic approach, adding her own twists.
She said, “I am attracted to art with meaning, where you feel a true sense of the artists’ process. Almost capturing the moment in time takes you back to the place and you remember the way you felt.”
She said, “I also enjoy the process of picking my colours, watching them blend, creating fine lines and dimension. It is a soothing and calming practice that helped me understand my feelings, process them, and make them a part of my self-care routine.”
Bilodeau started painting very young, inspired by her papa who was an artist. He taught her a few basics and from there she practiced and practiced. Because she tends to be a bit of a perfectionist, she didn’t give up. To learn more, she tried new mediums and styles, took art classes and online courses, and attended Sunrise School Division’s Art Speak program.
As well, she facilitates “Paint Nites,” and other private and public art events, and has instructed at Artist Emporium classes. Also, she has taken training in Art Therapy and holds sessions and youth art programs that have been well-received.
When asked about showing people her art, she said she shared it at Art Speak and in high school, where it has gained recognition for its high quality and achievement. She also posts most of her work on her personal Facebook page for family and friends to enjoy.
When asked for any inspiring words about art, she said, “Embrace the messiness of the process, and remember that creating art isn’t about reaching perfection, it’s about sharing your authentic prospective.”
