Kassandra Chancey says she has no artistic talent herself, but she takes great joy from supporting the artists and musicians who offer workshops, exhibitions, concerts and other events at Lebel Mansion, home of Pincher Creek’s Allied Arts Council.

As executive director of the arts council, Kassandra oversees gallery shows, programming and the gift shop, and manages tenants leasing space in the historic building.

“It’s the tenants paying the rent that make it possible for us to take care of the building and its operations,” she says.

They include a consignment shop, an artist studio, and offices for counsellors, massage therapists and non-profit organizations.

Kassandra grew up around artists and musicians. She and her husband moved from the East Coast to southwestern Alberta for a summer job, then returned so often they decided to make Pincher Creek their permanent home.

“I feel really lucky to have this job in a beautiful community where everyone is so supportive,” she says.

Lebel Mansion has a pottery studio open to adults who have taken a pottery workshop and can demonstrate their experience. During drop-in times, they can use tools supplied by Allied Arts, including eight pottery wheels and a kiln.

The well-known gift shop is the most forward-facing part of the council’s operations. The 65 to 70 artists whose work is on offer come through an application process Kassandra oversees.

“I look for something that is handmade and intentional,” she says.

Kassandra tries to support artists who rely on their work for a living. She also offers books on Indigenous or local topics, particularly well-made children’s books.

“I would love to read every book that we put out for sale, but sadly, I don’t have the time. I only manage to read about one out of every 10,” she says.

There is also the gallery space. The website thelebel.ca is a go-to spot for upcoming gallery exhibits, workshops and special events.

Kassandra is passionate about the services provided at the iconic building overlooking town.

“It is so important to have creative, inclusive spaces in rural communities,” she says.

Kassandra also enjoys partnering with other organizations in the region.

“We often have similar goals and values, wanting to make sure that everyone has access to arts and culture resources in places where they feel welcomed and included,” she says.

Kassandra invites people to become Allied Arts Council members for only $5 a year, which helps ensure creativity flourishes.

She reminds artists they have until Aug. 14 to submit 2027 exhibit applications. Each selected artist can display work for six to eight weeks. All disciplines are welcome, including visual arts, film and new media. Artists are paid $1,000 and, apart from the 30 per cent commission to Allied Arts, they keep the proceeds of any sales.