Be on Time! Advertising Deadline: 12 Noon on Tuesday

Friday, February 13, 2026

For PDF version of this weeks paper, please click here...

Click here to review older issues.....

Community ArtFest returns to Neepawa

By Joshua Jackson

Neepawa ArtsForward has announced the return of its popular ArtFest alongside the 2026 ArtFest Plein Air Experience.

Plein air is a French term meaning “in the open air,” referring to the practice of painting outdoors, directly in the landscape, to capture the immediate effects of natural light, atmosphere, and colour.

ArtsForward is touting a bigger and better event in 2026. The fest is bringing in British Columbia’s Perry Haddock, a Senior Signature Member of the Federation of Canadian Artists, known for his expressive brushwork and joyful painting style.

Haddock will be leading a three-day plein air workshop, including two days of painting in Riding Mountain National Park, departing from Elkhorn Resort. The third day consists of painting in Neepawa as part of the ArtFest celebrations.

During ArtFest, the popular event which started last year, The Amazing Race Neepawa, will also be returning, alongside many new surprises which ArtsForward plans to reveal in the future.

The 2026 edition of ArtFest takes place in Neepawa on July 18. Those who wish to sign up for the Plein Air Experience are encouraged to contact ArtsForward.