Cochrane's vast and creative arts community will be upfront and centre at the Kickstart Party for the nonprofit Cochrane Integrated Arts Society (CIAS) on Sept. 29 from 2 to 5 p.m. at The Clubhouse, on the Cochrane Ranche Historic Site.

The mosiac of visual and performing arts will bring home just how vibrant the art scene remains here. Painters, sculptures, potters, authors, musicians, woodcarvers, jewelers, performing artists and photographers are among those participating. The celebration starts with a short opening ceremony at 2 p.m.

They'll also be live music, including the River Reeds of the Cochrane Music Society, a cellist, men's quartet and, weather permitting, potentially some outside drumming for the whole family.

CIAS founder and president Evelyn Marinoski is passionate about the wealth of art and artists in Cochrane.

"What I'm really trying to do is get the word out to the community. Come and see what we've got. it's so amazing and wonderful."

Much has happened since she became determined to bring the arts community together again after the demise of the Arts and Culture Foundation of Cochrane.

She started spreading the word last October and by January was seeking board members. At the same time, she continued to build connections and expand a database of artists and remains on the constant lookout.

That pursuit will continue as part of an interactive display at the Kickstart Party. Listed there will be in the information she has collected.

"I want people to add to that, so we can continue to build a good database of artists, different kinds of art and information on what art classes and workshops are going on in town so people can see what's available."

The party is among the many special events and performances that will be included in Cochrane's Culture Days celebrations, Sept. 28-29.

Pulling it all together is a passport tour over the two days.

"People get a little passport of different places they can go and visit and if they get them all stamped or signed they can come back and enter a prize draw. There are some incredible prizes coming in."

The passports will be available at the participating businesses. More information will be available soon.

It also coincides with the Cochrane Music Society's fall workshop, JumpStart, Sept. 29. The Choral Waves will be holding their workshop at the Nan Boothby Memorial Library while the Band on the Bow is holding their's at the Bow Valley High School.

Choristers and wind instrumentalists from the public are invited join in the workshops and stay for the BBQ at the Bow Valley High School for the small fee of $10. 

You can learn more about the Cochrane Music Society here.

For more information on CIAS, you can contact Evelyn at evelyn@cochranearts.com.