Students in Conestoga’s Interior Decorating two-year diploma program will host the annual CHAIRity gala at Kitchener Public Library’s (KPL) central branch on Friday, February 9. The event features a collection of repurposed chairs and furniture, reupholstered and painted by the students, which will be auctioned off in support of the library.
Visit KPL's Central branch to view a collection of repurposed chairs and furniture crafted by Interior Decorating students. Each chair was inspired by a well-known designer and will be auctioned off at Conestoga's CHAIRity fundraiser on February 9.
CHAIRity launched in 2012 and has raised more than $23,000 for local charities and non-profits. Last year, $5,500 was directed to Habitat for Humanity.
This is the second year the students have installed their work at the library in advance of the gala. Each piece has been inspired by a well-known designer, artist or architect, and the library complements the display with books related to those designers.
“CHAIRity is one of the highlights of our winter season,” said Bob Egan, KPL’s manager of community connections and development. “It makes our lounge come alive and draws interest from the diverse group of people we welcome here. Kids are especially fascinated by the pieces. They can see the chairs are no longer chairs, but a method of expression.”
Conestoga faculty member Amanda Baechler said the installation this year features a collection of chairs, but has been expanded to include other types of furniture. Of the more unique pieces is an 1890 Nordheimer piano that has been repurposed into a console table. Baechler said some students also chose to build their own chairs this year rather than repurpose one.
The CHAIRity installation is available for viewing during the Library’s operating hours. The CHAIRity Gala will be held from 7:00 - 9:30 p.m. on February 9 in the Library’s main lounge and will feature silent and live auctions, music and refreshments. Contact Leah Lasani for more information.
Conestoga’s Interior Decorating two-year diploma program provides students with the opportunity to develop interior decorating skills and knowledge. Students are introduced to the latest computer applications, and will learn to use colour, textiles, materials, design vocabulary, furniture, lighting and more, to execute and manage their own design/decorating projects. A field placement in the last semester to gain industry career experience before graduating.
Visit the program page for more information.