Manitoba Arts Network Verified listing

Matter Queer Space Manitoba Inc. (Matter) is a not-for-profit, volunteer-run, and donation-supported Two-Spirit, Queer, and Trans Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (2SQTBIPOC) -mandated art gallery, library, and queer community programming space. Matter centres 2SQTBIPOC art, literature, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people.

Our mission is to uplift, represent, and celebrate the voices and creativity of 2SQTBIPOC communities through a 2SQTBIPOC-mandated art gallery and library, and diverse programs and activities that foster connection, learning, and wellness for the entire 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Birtle Centre for the Arts, located at 671 Main St., Birtle, is a hub for local and regional creative communities.   A non-profit organization, BCA is a team effort, managed by a volunteer board of directors with the help of many community volunteers, donors, and business sponsors.

BCA strives to provide a welcoming, inclusive environment where creative endeavours and learning about the visual arts and craft are encouraged and facilitated.  People of all ages are welcome to use the bright clean workspaces to share, learn and practice skills or to work independently on their creative projects.  A growing group of energetic artists and volunteers continue to attract and nurture creativity through a widening range of programming.

BCA offers ways to acquire new skills in the arts and other creative endeavours.  We typically offer over 40 programs each year to children, youth, and adults from our community and the surrounding area.  Our classes range from puppet-making to acrylic painting and everything in between.

BCA also provides studio time for community members who want to practice what they have learned in our classes or work independently. A drop-in fee is charged and equipment can be used when the appropriate pre-requisite classes have been taken to learn safe and proper use.