Library set to launch children's programming funded by Trisha Romance donation

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Public Library is getting ready to launch the Trisha Romance Children’s Art Fund, a new initiative designed to nurture creativity and provide meaningful art opportunities for the community’s children.

This program is made possible through a generous $10,000 donation from the Romance family, as announced by library board chair at Trisha Romance Day celebrations on Queen Street last month. The donation and the programs it is intended to fund reflect Trisha Romance's vision of sharing the joy of art with children, says a library news release.

“I was so fortunate to grow up in a school system that encouraged the arts,” says Romance. “My art teacher was more than an educator, she was the most valuable mentor in my life. I want to ensure that children in our town have the same opportunity to fall in love with the arts,” she adds. “It is my hope that The Children’s Art Fund, through our very own NOTL Library, may be a great source of encouragement, fun, and even mentorship to all who take part.”

The library will officially launch the initiative Oct. 26 at 12 p.m.,  with a Romance in attendance, and a beautiful wall of children’s art that is already on display, showcasing the creativity and talent of young local artists.

“Trisha Romance’s paintings, which often feature children as the focal point, have inspired countless families with their warmth and charm. Now, through this new fund, she hopes to bring the magic of art directly to the young people of Niagara-on-the-Lake.”

"We are deeply grateful to the Romance family for entrusting us with this initiative,” says Debbie Krause, community engagement coordinator. “As a library, we are committed to creating a welcoming space for learning, discovery, and creativity. The Trisha Romance Children’s Art Fund will help us continue this mission, offering art programming that encourages children to explore their creative potential."

The art programs will be led by skilled art educators and will allow children to experiment with various artistic mediums in a supportive environment. From painting and drawing to sculpting and mixed media, these programs aim to foster a love of art and self-expression in every participant, says the news release.

The NOTL Public Library is inviting the community to be a part of this initiative — check out its event calendar to find upcoming art programs supported by the Trisha Romance Children’s Art Fund at https://notlpubliclibrary.libnet.info/events?v=grid.

Also, donations to the fund would be welcome to help sustain the programs, “ensuring that more children have the opportunity to explore their creative potential.” Donations can be made online at https://notlpubliclibrary.org/childrensartfund

For more information on the launch event or how you can support the Trisha Romance Children’s Art Fund, please contact Debbie Krause at [email protected].