Famed La Cloche Art Show celebrates 47 years of showcasing talented artists

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Famed La Cloche Art Show celebrates 47 years of showcasing talented artists

The 47th La Cloche Art Show honoured late co-founder Ivan Wheale, celebrated featured artist Robert Potvin, and awarded Beth Buffard 'Best in Show' amidst record youth entries.

Michael Erskine

Jul 03, 2026 - 4 min read

Martin Foley received the Ivan Wheale Award for ‘Lady Evelyn North Arm.’ It is presented by Cliff Jewell, right.

Famed La Cloche Art Show celebrates 47 years of showcasing talented artists — Martin Foley received the Ivan Wheale Award for ‘Lady Evelyn North Arm.’ It is presented by Cliff Jewell, right.

WHITEFISH FALLS—This year’s edition of the La Cloche Art Show, the 47th, will be the first without the input of co-founder Ivan Wheale who passed away within a few days of last year’s 46th edition. Mr. Wheale was honoured with a short address by fellow artist Susan Cairns along with a message from the artist. Along one wall was a display that included a biography of the late Mr. Wheale and some of his works for sale, courtesy of Perivale Gallery and some information about co-founder Peg Forbes as well.

“Thank you to Jon Butler and Mike Erskine for donating and putting things together for me,” said show organizer Sue Miron. “I’ve got some other articles and pictures and stuff that I’m going to put up there as well, but for now, I do have them on the table.”

“Getting this message out to you is very important,” said Ms. Cairns. “Ivan wanted to make sure you all know how important you were to him. Fate brought him to our community to be our mentor and good friend. All of us will remember him in our own way. Ivan’s good friendship and warmth will always stay in our hearts, and when I spoke to Ivan just before he passed, he told me he was so looking forward to being with his beloved Jean again, and he was happy, and his spirit was glowing. So, thank you very much Ivan forever.”