Klaassen's art subject of first Mapleton Cultural Moment

The first installment of the Mapleton Cultural Moment recognized a local artist, the late Hennrietta Klaassen.

Mapleton business development and marketing co-ordinator Crystal Ellis gave a brief presentation on the life and art of Klaassen, better known as “Henni,” at the Dec. 8 council meeting.

Council agreed to add a moment highlighting local culture to its regular meeting agenda at the suggestion of Mayor Neil Driscoll.

Klaassen was a lifelong artist, and an art teacher at Waterloo Collegiate Institute for more than 20 years.

Ellis described Klaassen as, “A dedicated mother and prolific artist who will be remembered for her warm and generous spirit, boundless creativity, and her tireless commitment to learning and teaching.”

She also called her a “creative risk taker with a passion for art, a commitment to community; and a kind-hearted collaborator.”

Klaassen grew up in the Drayton/Moorefield area and attended Norwell District Secondary School. She completed her fine arts degree at the University of Guelph and her teaching degree at the University of Toronto. She painted throughout her life exhibiting many times at galleries in Guelph and Toronto.

Klaassen, her husband Shaun and their family moved back to Mapleton about nine years ago from Guelph.

“She was active in the community and you could find her volunteering in the schools with art classes, teaching yoga and as an active member for the Drayton Terry Fox Team,” said Ellis.

This past year, Klaassen was also part of the steering committee for the Mapleton Cultural Plan.

“It is fitting to share a glimpse into her artistic life as Mapleton’s first cultural moment. Henni’s contribution to arts and culture can be found in works of art here in Mapleton, across Canada and internationally,” said Ellis.