How we began......

The Peminba Hills Art Club began in 1988 with a group of nine artists from the Morden area who started showing their art as part of the Morden Corn and Apple Festival.  The group continued to exhibit their work three times a year, finding display space in a variety of empty buildings in Morden.  In 1992, they developed their mandate and became the Pembina Hills Arts Council, forming its first board of directors. This new group had a vision to further promote growth of the arts in the Pembina Hills region and to act as an umbrella arts organization in the area for local cultural events and groups.  

In 1996 it became clear that a paid coordinator was needed for the daily operation of the Gallery and the first employee was hired.  That same year the new Pembina Hills Art Centre and Gift Shop found its permanent home on 352 Stephen Street in the historic building that was Morden's orginal post office.

The artists began teaching classes to the general public in basic drawing and painting.  Every year since, more classes have been added for adults and children, including sculpture, creative writing and watercolour.  For over 20 years The Pembina Hills Arts Centre has hosted hundreds of exhibitions and opening receptions for artists including Marcel Debreuil, Natalie Rostad and Kim Penner who have all achieved great success in their careers. 

The Pembina Hills Art Centre has grown to a membership of about 60 with additional work displyed by 35 additional artists from Mantioba and other provinces.  They employ a full time Administrative Director, two part time staff and have many dedicated volunteers and board members who continue to give of their time to further the success of the Pembina Hill Art Centre and its artists.