Business Afterhours Mixer hosted by Visual Arts Studio Association of St. Albert

Join us for an evening of creativity, conversation, and connection as you:

• Wander through VASA's working artist studios and gallery spaces
• Meet the artists who bring our creative community to life
• Take in inspiring exhibitions and discover new artistic perspectives
• Build meaningful connections with local business and community leaders
• Explore the many ways VASA supports artists and enhances our community

The Visual Arts Studio Association (VASA) was born from the passion and vision of Patricia Wagensveld and her husband, Harry, who transformed their St. Albert business, The Studio Gallery, into a not-for-profit arts organization in 2005. Their dream was simple yet powerful: to create a welcoming home where local artists could come together, create, collaborate, and inspire.

In its early years, VASA operated from two locations in Grandin Mall and on Perron Street, but Patricia never gave up on her vision of bringing all member artists under one roof. Through years of dedication, perseverance, and community advocacy, that dream began to take shape when VASA secured space in the city-owned Hemingway Building in 2010, followed by a long-term lease in 2012.

Although Patricia sadly passed away in December 2013, she had the opportunity to see her dream become a reality. Her legacy continues to live on through the thriving artistic community she helped create.

Under the leadership of former city councillor Carol Watamaniuk and many dedicated volunteers, VASA has continued to grow and flourish. The organization has expanded its membership, established monthly exhibitions, welcomed an Executive Director, and developed a long-term vision to support and celebrate the arts in our community.

Today, VASA is a vibrant, artist-run organization home to 21 working studios, where creativity, connection, and community come together every day.