This week's Hidden Hero: Ty Smith
By Claire Dibble
The Hidden Hero Project is a portrait series celebrating the everyday heroes who live and give in Castlegar. Community members were asked to nominate people as heroes back in the summer of 2018 and the exhibition celebrating a selection of the good folks of Castlegar will open at Kootenay Gallery on June 20.
Partway through the project it became clear that ‘hero’ is perhaps too strong a word. Some nominees flinched at the suggestion that someone would call them a hero. And indeed, hero conjures images of a firefighter, an ER nurse, a superhuman in a cape. These are undoubtedly worthy of our appreciation. But so are the everyday folks who do more good than harm, and hopefully that’s most of us. The idea behind this project is to celebrate the goodness that resides in most people. There are thousands of ‘hidden heroes’ in Castlegar, quietly offering kindnesses to others without ever considering their actions to be worthy of recognition. Yet we all know that a well-timed act of kindness can mean a world of difference. We know that it is the efforts of many people over time that builds a strong community.
When a person brings their own interests and unique style to the table, much can be gained. Take Ty Smith, for example. He loves to skateboard, and he shares his enthusiasm with anyone interested all summer long. Here’s an example of the impact that’s having:
“No words can describe the unsolicited generosity that Ty gives. He is ready to help out anyone who seems to need it and always with a big smile and warmth. He has had a major influence on our young daughter, becoming a skateboarder, but more so being confident in herself through what she has learned from him. Amazing life lessons.”
You probably know a hidden hero or two. With this in mind, the nomination form is still available at www.hiddenheroproject.ca. All nominations made before June 1 will be included as part of the exhibition.
Nominees were asked four questions, and you’re welcome to send in your reflections on any or all of the following as well.
1. What does ‘community’ mean to you?
2. What does being a contributing member of society look like to you?
3. What advice would you give to someone who is not currently engaging with their community but would like to be?
4. What are some of the personal benefits (expected or unanticipated) you receive by giving, by contributing, by helping others?
This project was conceived of by the curator at Kootenay Gallery of Art and is supported by the Province of BC Community Resilience Through Arts and Culture Grant.
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