The more people understand our world and the issues bearing down on us, the better we can respond creatively.

That’s how Marlaina Buch, the new education and public programs co-ordinator for the Kamloops Art Gallery, approaches the job she’s held for the last three weeks.

“Art is a visual response to our world,” Buch told The Daily News on Wednesday. “It helps us have an engaged response creatively. And I think that creative adaptability is going to one of the most in-demand skills in the future.”

Buch’s job, like that of her predecessor Tarin Hughes, is to oversee the gallery’s school programs and studio classes. She sees her role as one of engaging the public with the exhibitions currently on display.

“Everything flows from the exhibitions. The artists and the pieces being shown are the inspiration for the interpretation and animation that follows,” she said.

That includes arranging lessons, workshops and tours of the work on display for school groups and the public, she said. Buch will also tailor the programs she offers to suite the needs of community groups.

Buch was an educator on contract at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria prior to taking the job in Kamloops. She’s also an accomplished sculptor and 3D artist who’s worked in a variety of mediums.

She likes Kamloops so far and appreciates how friendly people are, she said. Buch is looking forward to meeting local artists and educators and learning more about the local art scene.

“I’m really alive to that kind of exchange,” said Buch.

Hughes left the gallery to further her academic career.