Weyburn native Jessica Telford has been busy with a number of arts events since she was named the new curator educator for the Weyburn Arts Council on Oct. 5. "I went to Regina in 2001 where I got my fine arts degree at the U of R and I majored in painting, so I am also an artist," Telford said. A few of her painting are on display in various places in Regina and her last exhibit was the BFA art exhibit at the MacKenzie Art Gallery in Regina. Her future goal is to become a professional artist.

She decided to move back to Weyburn and take the job as the curator educator because it was closer to her friends and family.

As the curator educator, Telford's responsibilities include organizing the art exhibits at the Allie Griffin Art Gallery and organizing tours, workshops, receptions and special events. Telford is hoping to continue having great exhibits show up at the art gallery and to have art in people's lives in the community.

"I would like to maintain the quality of the exhibits," she said.

Her first month on the job was very busy scheduling several events. Her first major event was helping with the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils convention, which took place in Weyburn on Oct. 27-30, and the local art adjudication which took place on the Nov. 5 weekend.

She is currently working with the Crocus Quilters for a show at the Allie Griffin Art Gallery, which is taking place all this month.

The next event Telford will work on is the James Weir Peoples' Choice Exhibition, which will take place at the Allie Griffin Art Gallery from Thursday, Jan. 5 to Tuesday, Jan. 31.

The Peoples' Choice Exhibition will feature artwork from amateur artists in the Weyburn area. There will also be a workshop for artists which will focus on exhibition proposals.

"It is to help the local artists' careers, to take them to the next level," Telford said.