‘My way of connecting’: Red Ribbon art show takes over Leisureplex
September 21, 2026 at 3:25 AM
Deb Malcolm knew nothing about Métis beadwork until she found her birth family eight years ago and learned she is Red River Métis.
Malcolm brought those beadwork paintings to the Fort Erie Arts Council’s 21st Red Ribbon Art Show and Sale on Saturday night, the council’s biggest fundraiser, held from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Leisureplex.
“I had no idea what my culture really meant,” Malcolm told Fort Erie Radio, “so this is my way of connecting to it.”
Deb Malcolm with paintings from her series Honouring My Red River Métis Ancestors at the Fort Erie Arts Council’s 21st Red Ribbon Art Show and Sale on Saturday. Credit: Andrew Hawlitzky | Fort Erie RadioThe Lincoln Pelham Public Library unveiled Malcolm’s seven-foot mural, Spirits of the Carolinian, at its Maple Acre branch in Fenwick in June. The Crystal Beach painter decorated it with plants native to Niagara.
The Fort Erie Arts Council charged $15 at the door and put the money toward the art classes and children’s programs it offers all year at its Ridgeway gallery. Guitarist Jim Faragalli played while guests bid on a silent auction.
David Handley abandoned art as a young man. He returned to it after a Facebook video of somebody painting, and he has finished more than 200 paintings since.
“When somebody loves it enough to buy and hang it in their house, that means a lot to me,” said Handley.
David Handley beside his series of 10 sunflower paintings at the Red Ribbon Art Show & Sale on Saturday. Credit: Andrew Hawlitzky | Fort Erie RadioHe searched online for a local arts community after he started painting again, found the Fort Erie Arts Council and now sits on its board.
“I love talking to the people here, the other artists, and I enjoy it as much as I like painting,” Handley said.
Andrea Eby, a professional illustrator and cartoonist, exhibited pieces from her Portraits of the Wind series that she had kept out of public view since selling the earlier ones at a previous show.
“I just like coming and meeting the other artists,” Eby said.
Andrea Eby with pieces from her Portraits of the Wind series at the Red Ribbon Art Show & Sale on Saturday. Credit: Andrew Hawlitzky | Fort Erie RadioEby has taught life drawing for the Fort Erie Arts Council over the past year and plans to teach it again.
The Fort Erie Arts Council will hold its Christmas market later this year and four art battles this season–timed competitions in which painters finish an 18-by-24-inch canvas in 20 minutes.
Art battle hosted by FEAC ‘all about being mentally ready,’ says winner
Old Fort Erie to host community tree planting and ghost tours
Red Ribbon a ‘perfect venue’ for artists to get exposure
About The Author
Andrew Hawlitzky
Andrew is a Niagara community journalist who has covered everything from local politics to annual festivals and breaking news. He works to make local news a platform where community voices lead the conversation. "If you don't like the news, go out and make some!"
Stay Informed