almaguinhighlandsartscouncil.com
Ar t i st s 4. Almaguin Choral Society 6. Burk’s Falls Arts and Crafts
Annual Events See website for details: ∙∙AHAC Studio Tour - Aug Long Weekend ∙∙AHAC Showcase & Sale - Culture Days ON
8. Blu Moon Gallery-Shilolo 10. Peter Camani 12. Brian Chute 14. Joanne Collins 16. Petra Edwards 18. Woody Green 20. Highland Players 22. Highlander Brew Co. 24. Jack Lockhart 26. Don MacKenzie 28. Colleen McQuade 30. Suzanne Nugent
W EL COME
32. Tony Oorschot
The Almaguin Highlands Arts Council is proud of this colourful, informative Directory which promotes the rich diversity of artists in our area – including media, visual, performing and literary arts. The Arts Council represents the entire Almaguin Highlands area and functions as an umbrella organization, working with existing arts groups, individual artists, galleries and various community organizations to advance and market artists and events which further raise public awareness of our arts community. The Almaguin Highlands Arts Council website provides a forum to promote and advertise our rich cultural and artistic heritage, talented artists and events in the Almaguin area. We strive to encourage tourism within the Almaguin Highlands through the promotion of the arts and in partnership with our many local businesses.
34. Ann Swallow 36. Trach Art Studio 38. Variegated Devas 40. Morgan Walker 42. Darren Copeland 44. Wooden Roo 46. Windows to the North
“Find Art In Our Nature” Hazel Hornibrook Chairperson, Almaguin Highlands Arts Council
Visit our website: almaguinhighlandsartscouncil.com Like us on facebook: facebook.com/AlmaguinHighlandsArtsCouncil
Cover: This reproduction of the Tom Thomson painting, “Autumn Foliage”, was painted by members of the Almaguin Highlands Art Club under the direction of local artist Rosemary Gough.
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Find Art in our Nature
almaguinhighlandartscouncil.com
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ALMAGUIN CHORAL SOCIETY In 1989, a group of around 20 people would stand and read sheet music, performing with only their voices. Today the Almaguin Choral Society (ACS) is a group of 60 women and men who love to sing and share their love of music with their audiences. The group partakes in acting and movement accompanying their voices.
Over the years, how has the group grown? We have grown in capacity to take on bigger roles. We can take on more challenging repertoire, more challenging concert types. There are all kinds of choreography now. The confidence of the group has grown through exceptional leadership and hard work.
When do you perform? The ACS performs a Christmas concert of secular and sacred music the first weekend in December. On four evenings in June, the choir showcases their song and dance cabaret. Under the professional direction of Gloria Kidd, the choir flourishes and expands their four-part repertoire. Please check with us for concert dates and ticket information.
Who can join? ACS welcomes singers high school age and older to join them for fun, friendship, and the joy of singing in a choir.
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How do we find out more? Please “Like� us on Facebook or email us at acs.choir@outlook.com
Almaguin Choral Society
acs.choir@outlook.com | 705-382-5651 | Sundridge, ON
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B U R K ’ S FA LLS A RT A N D CR A F TS C E N TRE The Burk’s Falls Arts Centre, located at 113 Yonge St, Burk’s Falls, is home to numerous hand crafted items as well as gorgeous paintings. The club now boasts approximately 50 members. Monthly meetings are held at the Burk’s Falls Royal Canadian Legion on the second Wed. of each month.
How did the Club get started? In 1950, fourteen area artists joined together to form a club for recreational painters. The group met in the basement of the United Church where the membership quickly grew. A number of the new members were teenagers whose enthusiasm and vitality ensured the groups continuation. In 1957 the Northern Ontario Art Association started its juried exhibition and the Burk’s Falls group was one of the first to take advantage of the show. Classes taught by respected instructors, lectures on art appreciation and workshops continued to add to the growth of the group and their influence in the provincial art scene. As the group moved into the 90’s there was increasing interest shown in the club by those who practiced other forms of arts such as knitting, wood carving, potters, quilting, jewelry and soap making. These artists are now an integral part of the group and evidence of the wide variety of artistic talent in the area. In 2010, the club took another big step forward when they obtained the use of a historic building in downtown Burk’s Falls to display and sell their products. The Centre with its distinctive bright yellow awning quickly became a focus for tourists and others looking for a unique gift, a piece of fine art or something for their home. Visitors to the Centre quickly realize that it is going to take much more than a few moments to see all of the items located throughout the two floors of the building. Each one is encouraged to sign the guest book before leaving and there are few parts of the world that haven’t been represented at least once. The Centre is open from May until the end of September.
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Burk’s Falls Arts and Crafts
bfacc.org | 705-382-5895 | Burk’s Falls, ON
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Blu Moon Artisan s Located in Burk’s Falls, Blu Moon Artisans represents the talents of more than 45 local artists and artisans. Offering fine art, hand made apparel, sterling silver and hand-crafted jewelry, pottery, stained glass, woodworking, beeswax candles, goat milk soap and many other one of a kind items.
Why did you open? Blu Moon represents our interest in the arts and the people that create the varied items you will experience in our store/ gallery. Our longtime residence in the area and having been in business for over 20 years has introduced us to a number of the artisans who display their work at Blu Moon. By showcasing these creative individuals we hope to foster and strengthen the local artistic community.
What is in the gallery? Blu Moon Artisans represents the talents of more than 45 local artists and artisans. We offer fine art, hand made apparel, sterling silver and handcrafted jewelry, pottery, stained glass, woodworking, beeswax candles, goat milk soap and many other one of a kind items. We seasonally carry local honey and maple syrup. Established in 1994, Northern Notes Music shares the gallery space with Blue Moon Artisans.
What are your hours? We are located at 60 Ontario Street, in the south end of Burk’s Falls. Blu Moon Artisans is OPEN YEAR ROUND. 8
Blu Moon Artisans
blumoonartisans.com | (705) 382-4008 | Burk’s Falls. On
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PETER CAMANI SCREAMING HEADS Nestled in a remote area in of the Almaguin Highlands resides the reclusive Peter Camani. A high school art teacher and renowned Canadian artist, Peter has been pursuing his dream since the late 1980’s. With his paintings already hanging in such coveted places as the Vatican and Buckingham Palace, Peter decided to focus his seemingly limitless energy on realizing a unique vision of significantly larger proportions.
Where did your artist’s journey begin? I grew up in Hamilton, Ontario. From a very early age I would sketch the cottages on the Beach Strip on the shore of Lake Ontario. I wanted to take art at Delta Secondary School but was unable to do so, so I developed my own way of creating.
Are you self-taught? Although I was accepted at the University of Waterloo in Science, in my third year I transferred from the Sciences to the Arts. Here I became familiar with artist’s styles and techniques. After graduating with a BA. I went to Althouse at Western University hoping to teach in a high school.
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Peter Camani - Screaming Heads
What brought you to the Almaguin Highlands?
Can people view these pieces?
I accepted a position at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School in 1973 and remained there till 2008 when I retired. For my first eight years, I lived in the woods with no electricity. Finally, in 1981, I purchased the land on which the Screaming Heads now exist.
These large concrete Monoliths can be seen by traveling ten kilometers west of Burk’s Falls along Midlothian Road. Upon arriving at the walled castle all can enter freely at their own risk and partake in the beauty of the landscape. This out door gallery changes with the passage of time, from season to season and from day to night. I would like to invite everyone to stop by and enjoy my creations.
What was your plan? At first I just worked to repair the house, but soon transformed it into a castle. When this was completed I focused on the surrounding fields. I built walls and ponds and many concrete sculptures.
petercamani@hotmail.com | 705-382-6413 | Burk’s Falls, ON
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Brian Chute Born in Toronto, growing up in Peterborough, attending schools in London and Hamilton, artist Brian Chute moved to Northern Ontario in 1972 as a high school teacher. After raising 3 kids with his wife Nancy, Brian retired from teaching in 2007. Having always been awed by the power and grace of the forces of nature, Brian was finally able to pursue his passion of painting his own interpretations of these forces.
How did you get interested in art? My artistic voyage started in Owen Sound when I was in grade two. I won a radio colouring contest for a new bike, proving that it is never too early to be creative. I continued my love of drawing and won a city wide Safety Poster contest in Peterborough. Life, post secondary education, family and a teaching career in North Bay distracted me from pursuing painting until I retired in 2007.
Where does your inspiration come from? Colleagues and the northern environment continue to shape my emerging style into a natural impressionist view with a twist of abstract expressionism. The mystery in a foggy morning… the majesty in a lake sunset… the history in an abandoned mine… the strength in a highway rock cut. These inspire me. I paint what I like for pleasure, for family and for friends.
What other Arts Groups are you affiliated with? I was a founding member and former past president of the Consolidated Artist Group of Sevens in Corbeil. I am a member of the Northern Ontario Art Association, North Bay Art Association and the Almaguin Highlands Arts Council, as well as a participant in the Art in the Park section of the Festival in the Summer and recent honourable mention winner in the 2015 NOAA juried exhibition.
Whose work has influenced you? I am drawn to the diverse works of painters like Arthur Lismer, Clarence Gagne, Jackson Pollock and E.J. Hughes. I find inspiration in their aggressive forms and their interpretation of man’s symbiotic relationship with nature. Taking classes with artists, Doreen Wood, Bruce St Clair, Diane Allen and Arlie Hoffman has refined my interpretation of the interplay and competition of natural elements with human enterprise so evident here in Northern Ontario. 12
Brian Chute
bchute@cogeco.ca | 705-472-7874 | North Bay, ON
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J O ANNE C OLL INS Joanne has made her home in the Almaguin Highlands for many years. Her favourite subject to paint and draw is North American wildlife. The antique granary boards used in her artwork are all unique in their characteristics making each piece truly, one-of-akind. Joanne balances her artwork by using the natural elements of the wood as much as possible to compliment her subject. Says Collins, “Sometimes the wood tells me what to paint!”
How did you get interested in art? I love looking at plants and animals… all the colours, shades and delicate markings nature has given them. This is likely why I am a representational artist… I often wish I wasn’t. I admire and sometimes envy the impressionists, but I just can’t help myself… I appreciate the details. While minoring in Art at Nipissing University, in the process of getting my teaching certificate, a professor once suggested my style of painting was
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Joanne Collins
made obsolete by the invention of the camera; however, my goal is not only to produce representational pieces, but also to imbue the work with my romanticized perception of the subject I paint.
Who has inspired you? One artist who inspires me is, of course, Robert Bateman, the guru of wildlife artists, but I was most impressed by the work of the late Gordon Pynn. This very talented artist became famous for his vibrantly coloured, realistic wildlife paintings, and I am honoured to say that I was able to study briefly under Gordon’s guidance before he moved to the west coast.
What is in your future? My husband, Dave Smith, who is a gifted primitive furniture artisan, and I have found our forever home in Magnetawan where we hope to establish a combined studio for our retirement years in the not too distant future. I paint in acrylic on Dave’s antique granary board cut-offs, primitive cupboards, Masonite, and have completed a pen & ink collection.
Where can we view your work today? My work can be viewed at the Windows to the North, Ethel Currie and Artisan of Muskoka galleries. Please check out the digital gallery on my website: joannecollins.net
joannecollins.net | 705-471-2124 | Magnetawan, ON
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Petra Edwards - PETRA’s POTTERY What started out as a part time endeavor has turned into a fulltime commitment for Petra Edwards of Petra’s Pottery Studio in Katrine, ON. There are over two hundred pieces of beautiful handcrafted stoneware to choose from in her gallery and when you visit you can see her newest creations and get a glimpse of the processes involved. Petra’s love of the natural beauty of the Almaguin Highlands can be seen throughout her studio, in her unique art forms and in the place she chooses to call home.
How did your art journey begin? I started taking part time pottery lessons at Canadore College with a few different instructors that were very talented and willing to share their knowledge and skills with the students. Over a few years it became a goal for me to eventually have my own gallery and work space.
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A screened in tent in the front yard was to be my first workshop for honing my pottery skills. After that I moved into my son’s bedroom but this just became a big mess. Pottery is a messy business for sure. The dust gets all over and the walls get splashed from clay slop being propelled at great velocity from the pottery wheel. I moved out of my son’s room and into an old trailer that was hauled up here from Bala. I used that for two summers and then decided that it was time to get real and build a workshop/gallery in the back yard. This is where I love to work now.
What makes your pottery unique? The workshop sits in a clearing in the woods and is “off the grid and off the beaten path” east of Katrine. We have lived with solar power for 36 years so behind every piece of Petra’s Pottery is the power of the sun.
What can a visitor expect? Whether you need a new mug for your morning coffee, a piece for your collection or a unique gift we have a wide variety of items to choose from. Our colours range from earth tones to blue and ivory.
Can we visit your studio? Sure. We are open most of the time by chance or appointment. A phone call ahead of time is always a good idea. Take Exit 252 off of Hwy 11 at Katrine, turn right onto Three Mile Lake Road and follow the signs for 8 kms to Petra’s Pottery, 647 Skyline Drive, Katrine. Petra Edwards - Petra’s Pottery
petraspottery.com | 705-382-2289 | Katrine, ON
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WOODY GREEn When you think of finely crafted jewelry and keepsake boxes, the name Woody Green of the Almaguin Highlands comes to mind. Whether you are looking to purchase a beautiful birdseye maple jewelry box or a leopardwood humador, Woody captures the stark beauty of the wood. He creates unique and extraordinary pieces of art which reflect the spirit of the wood. Beautiful wood‌artfully joined!
Why did you choose wood as your artform? My given name likely speaks to the early love my father had for woodworking. My own passion for wood grew slowly, starting with tapping maple trees for syrup, and progressing to logging and sawing boards for myself and other woodworkers. The character that is unique in every board such as grain pattern, colour and even smell fascinated me.
What are you doing now? Today I am still thrilled to pick up a piece of wood and to imagine the possibilities that lie within. Starting with a vision I know that patience and perseverance may eventually reveal something that is, not only useful, but also beautiful. My current work is focused on a variety of jewelry, keepsake, and humidor boxes, with an emphasis on figured wood accented by intricate inlay detail.
Where can we view & buy your woodworking? My pieces such as seen here can be found on the Etsy site at woodygreen.ca and locally at Blu Moon Artisans in Burk’s Falls.
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Woody Green
woodygreen.ca | 705-384-5476 | Sundridge. On
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Hi ghland P laye r s Getting into your character for a play is a personal bit of timing....You need to become that person....this happens after all your lines are memorized and you begin the process of being!! The feeling you get as an actor once you become the person is the best feeling ..truly transformed! Come see what the Highland Players are doing this season!
Who are the Highland Players? The Highland Players is an informal, amateur theatre group operating in the Almaguin Highlands. We are dedicated to presenting theatrical productions to the residents of the Almaguin Highlands.
How long have the you been performing? The group has been in existence since our first production, “California Suite” in 1990.
What has the group performed? We have presented a variety of plays from full scale musicals such as “The Sound of Music”, “Wizard of Oz”, “Annie Get Your Gun” to comedies and dramas – “The Mousetrap”, “Bathroom Humor” and “Lend Me a Tenor”.
Can anyone join? Volunteers of all ages for the stage and behind the scenes are always welcome.
How do we find out more? Please ”Like us” on Facebook or email us at: highlandplayers1@gmail.com
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Highland Players
facebook.com/thehighlandplayers | 705-384-0590
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HIGHLANDER BREW Co. Highlander began operations in 2009 when Brewmaster Brian Wilson made the brewery’s first beer, a traditional Scottish Ale. Using four varieties each of malt and hops, and cracking barley on site to ensure freshness, Highlander was soon a favourite of the region. Highlander has expanded its line with the addition of Blacksmith Smoked Porter and Lion Grass, as well as a number of seasonal and collaboration beers.
What’s up and coming? In 2016, we will be brewing the following new beers: Spring is an English Style IPA like you never had before. It is based on Chinook, Centennial and Cascade hops. The soft Labrador tea and wintergreen flavour wakes your senses to the new spring. Summer is a rollicking good time. Aged in Tequila barrels, this beer has a light honey colour. Additional flavours come from the prickly pear, lime rinds, and Himalayan mountain salt. Autumn is an English Nut Brown ale that uses apple wood and smoked beach hazelnut which grows wild at the brewery near Algonquin Park. Our friend M. Rheault, who makes a fantastic whiskey, has provided the oak chips and whiskey barrels for aging, bringing a deep flavoured whiskey scent to the beer Winter is a comfort beer. Intense profound flavours derived from locally produced organic honey, along with subtle amounts of cinnamon, ginger and
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Highlander Brew Co.
orange zest will remind you of all the warmth and comfort of a winter evening snuggling around the fireplace.
Tell about your current expansion. From the beginning, Highlander Brew Co has been popular throughout Ontario. As we grew, more fermenter tanks were added and we have now outgrown our space. We chose to stay in South River and with both local and regional community support, Highlander is in the process of creating a Destination Brewery that will encourage tourism in
the area and provide a focal point for music, art and social events. With the support of other craft breweries in Ontario along with the local community college, Highlander will establish a Brewery Technician School within the brewery itself. It will be a practical apprenticeship program.
Where can we buy your beers? Currently, Highlander beers can be purchased in close to two hundred LCBO stores, select GTA Beer Stores and many restaurants throughout Ontario.
highlanderbrewco.com | (705) 792-0808 | South River, ON
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Jack Lockhart Jack is an internationally known Canadian artist whose paintings hang in private and corporate collections in many countries in the world. Jack specializes in commissioned work whether in watercolour, acrylic, or oil. He has produced more than 5,000 original works of art. He and his wife Bea would thoroughly enjoy meeting with you to discuss any art project you might have in mind and taking in your valued input, create for you a spectacular piece of art in any medium.
How did your journey begin? I was born in Selkirk, Manitoba and grew up in Fort Frances, Ontario. I have been painting in the North Bay area for over 50 years.My grandfather, A.M.Davidson, was an artist in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The only art lesson I ever had was when my grandfather told me as a youngster to get the three primary colours, red, yellow and blue and learn how to mix paint. I have always been interested in painting and in particular capturing the essence of the beauty of the Almaguin Highlands and surrounding areas. For many summers, I was a resident artist at Ontario Place and currently I give art workshops and private art lessns in the Jack Lockhart Art Gallery.
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Jack Lockhart
What are your most well known pieces? I have done numerous special commissions commemorating the 100th anniversaries of the OPP and Teacher Education in North Bay, the 75th anniversary of the City of North Bay and the 50th anniversary of NORAD (North American Air Defense) as well as commissions for SEARS Canada, the Canadian Career College, Canadian Ecology Centre, Nipissing University, the University of North Carolina and many others.
Who has most influenced you? I had the opportunity to paint on location with two artists who greatly influenced me, Jack Reid and Zoltan Szabo.
Where can people view your art? My wife Bea and I own and operate the Jack Lockhart Art Gallery and Bea’s Stained Glass Studio at 28 Vermont Cres, North Bay. You can also visit my website at jacklockhart.com.
jacklockhart.com | 705-474-7725 | North Bay, ON
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Don M ac Kenzie Don MacKenzie, wood sculpture artist of the Almaguiun Highlands resides in Huntsville, ON. Don sets his birds in their natural habitat giving viewers a glimpse of nature. His framed leaves & feathers bring a touch of wilderness indoors.
When did you get interested in art? I was born and raised in New Liskeard, Ontario and have been an avid outdoorsman since early childhood. I started exploring the world of art as a young child doing portraiture but was eventually captivated by sculpting first in soapstone and then in basswood and tupelo.
How do people react to your art pieces? My framed leaves and feathers are so realistic that people are astounded to find out that they have been hand sculptured from Basswood and then painted in Acrylic washes. At every show in which we participate, my pieces are often passed by as people think they are just real leaves or feathers that I have preserved and framed.
Where can someone watch you work? I have done numerous demonstrations for art shows, galleries, The Royal Winter Fair street fairs, steam shows, schools, country fairs, and Christmas shows. I have also demonstrated in 6 Culture Days events. I find when doing these demonstrations people crowd around my worktable and just stand there and watch in fascination while I work.
Where can we see your work? My work can be seen at Laura’s Art Shoppe in Cobalt, Blooms and Loons in Temagami, The Auburn Art Gallery in Gravenhurst, Perivale Art Gallery in Spring Bay on Manitoulin Island as well as Dragonfly Arts on Broadway in Gravenhurst.
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Don MacKenzie
pammack123@icloud.com | 705-788-9875 | Huntsville, ON
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Colleen M c Q uade As an artist, Colleen is motivated by the discovery of those fleeting moments of ‘simplistic beauty’ that are often missed or go unappreciated. She strives to be mindful of the aesthetics and subtle nuances associated with her chosen subject and she attempts to capture these in her works of art.
What brought you to the Almaguin Highlands? I was born and raised in Niagara Falls. Each year as a child, my family enjoyed exploring the Almaguin Highlands during all four seasons. In 2002, I was fortunate enough to secure possession of an old Almaguin century, hand-hewed log home and farm property, which I visited often as a child. I built a studio on the property nestled in nature and tranquility in which I now enjoy painting year-round. I call it ‘Blackwater’ Studio’.
How did your artistic journey begin? In 1994, knowing that ‘someday soon’ my life would be my own, I began my selftaught art journey. After retiring from an interesting and diversified career of 30 years, I took up full time residency at ‘Ladybug Downs’ leaving the noise, speed, aimless rhetoric and hostility behind ... 29
What form of art do you practise? Pastel is my medium of choice, but I also enjoy photography and painting. I have accepted commissions in the past and will continue to do so. I am an active member of Pastel Artists Canada, participating in professional workshops with accomplished artists while continuing to pursue my love for photography and painting.
What are your favourite subjects? My interests vary from landscapes, seascapes, florals, birds, wildlife and domestic animals to meaningful still life subjects, structures, properties etc. My work borders on realism with a “painterly” twist on traditional art.
Where can people view your art? I display my work at local shows, on tours, at galleries and in private collections. I welcome calls and visitors to ‘Blackwater Studio’ at ‘Ladybug Downs’ by appointment.
Is there anything else you’d like to add? I choose to share my paintings with others, not only to enhance awareness, but also to amplify the fragility of life as things change with each passing moment. Through my work, I draw reverence to and gratefulness for all there is to embrace and appreciate as we continue on our respective journeys through life. This is what makes us who we are.
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Colleen McQuade - Blackwater Studio
705-636-7931 | Kearney, ON
Sue Nugen t Sue Nugent paints from her “Hosta la Vista” studio three km west of South River, ON, in the central Almaguin Highlands. Sue named her studio in honour of the more than 125 Hosta plants growing on her property.
Where do you get your inspiration from? I have been an avid gardener, naturalist and outdoorswoman all my life. My inspiration for my art comes from my boating, camping, hiking and canoeing trips in and around Algonquin Park, the Almaguin Highlands and northern Ontario.
What mediums do you use? I have been painting with acrylics for a very long time. But I love to paint in watercolour as well. I enjoy painting landscapes, animals and especially water… this is where I love to tackle the challenge of capturing all the nuances that water possesses.
Whose work inspires you? I am a longtime admirer of the Group of Seven, and as such I am striving to make my work more impressionistic.
Are you affiliated with any groups? Sue belongs to the Burk’s Falls Art & Craft Club and the Almaguin Highlands Art Council.
Where can people see your works? Visitors are welcome to visit Hosta la Vista studio anytime. Please call first or email though – I may be out gardening or off painting at some remote lake or river! Hosta la vista – come again!
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Suzanne Nugent
sandjnugent@gmail.com | 705-386-7113 | South River, ON
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Tony Oo r s cho t Currently celebrating her 35th Anniversary in 2016, Tony Oorschot is owner of Rockcliffe Pottery and Craft Shop, a unique pottery studio and craft shop representing more than 90 artisans. Each item is handmade including all the international pieces that are on display such as pottery, raku, metal work, and clothing.
Where did your journey begin? Growing up in the Netherlands I was the youngest daughter of 5 in a family of merchants. In kindergarten I was introduced to textile and handcrafts where I found my passion, working with my hands. When I tried clay, I always loved the feel of it as a medium but didn’t explore it until much later in life.
When did you come to Canada? In 1966 my husband, two oldest children and I immigrated to Canada initially to Hamilton. In 1971 the call of North beckoned my husband and I and so we decided to move to Commanda Lake. With our 3 children in tow, we purchased a hunting camp. Rockcliffe Cottages became our family’s seasonal business.
Where did you Study? In 1979 I attended Canadore College to obtain my diploma in Crafts and Design in Ceramics. I was fortunate to be under the instruction of Keith Campbell and Jane Agnew. It was then that I decided that stoneware clay was my medium as it was tough like me. I became a production potter inspired by the ceramic artist Micheal Casin, from England, who visited while I was still at Canadore College. I loved his forms, functional works and the reduction process of his finished pottery. He was so generous with his knowledge, a real nice down to earth gentleman. Right after college we opened up my first studio called Rockcliffe Pottery in 1981.
What is in your future? I have no plans to retire. I continue to be passionate about working with clay and will keep pursuing my work as long as I am able. This year Rockcliffe Pottery is looking forward to celebrating our 35th year. We have grown since our humble beginnings in 1981 to include a larger studio, and craft shop showcasing up to 90 other artist works from North America.
Can we visit your studio? Yes, Rockcliffe Pottery and Craft Shop is located in Restoule. We are open from May 21st - October 10th, on weekends. Daily from July 1st - September 2nd. Hours are 10am -5pm. Please come for a visit, we look forward to celebrating our 35th year Anniversary with you!
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Tony Oorschot
rockcliffepottery.com | 705-729-2802 | Restoule, ON
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Ann Swallow The artist, Ann Swallow moved to the Almaquin Highlands as a full time resident ten years ago and is now working full time as a glass artist. Ann begins by hanging a large sheet of coloured glass in the windows of her studio. There it stays until it tells her what to create. Then a single idea is cut from that entire glass piece creating a unique connection within her stained glass picture. Ann paints stunning pictures with her stained glass.
What has drawn you to this medium? The richness and beauty in the light, texture, and color of stained glass make it a wonderfully satisfying medium in which to work. I think of my methods as a little like painting. We never perceive the fur on an animal as uniformly black or brown. So, while I work, I have a large variety of glass spread out around me like a palette. By choosing each piece carefully, I can get artful variations of shade and hue.
When did you come to the Almaguin Highlands? I moved to the Almaquin Highlands as a full time resident ten years ago and am now working full time as a glass artist creating original stained glass artwork.
What inspires you? The living world provides an endless variety of good subjects for stained glass windows. My work brings vivid,
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Ann Swallow - In the Leaves Glass Art Studio
yet subtle and intricate, images of living forms into people’s living and working spaces. The distinctive quality of my work is a feeling of depth in the representation of natural subjects, whilst retaining recognizable traits of traditional stained glass art. In my stained glass windows and panels, this impression of depth is largely an illusion created by careful use of color and texture.
What do you love about your art? For me glass is the most mysterious and magical of materials. I love the
way glass constantly changes with the light. No two pieces are ever the same and you can look at a piece and it will look different every time. I spend my time searching for new ways to use stained glass to make forms and colors; to paint with glass. Each piece I create is original and will not be duplicated. I enjoy working in ways that are unique — that’s what I love to do. The “In the Leaves” studio is now open by appointment, contact Ann at Dewey1an@live.ca or 705-384-1892.
dewey1an@live.ca | 705-384-1892 | Sundridge, ON
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Brent Trach A self-taught painter and print maker, Brent’s sophisticated printmaking technique produces a variety of unique and original art. In addition, Brent includes painting in watercolour, acrylic and oils in his list of chosen art forms.
When did you become interested in art? Like most artists, I was interested in art and drawing at a very young age and I have maintained this interest throughout my life.
What brought you to the Almaguin Highlands? I grew up in Stoney Creek Ontario but always had a desire to move north, out of the city. This interest was likely seeded during visits to South River to visit my mother’s family.
What do you enjoy painting? My main watercolour subjects are landscapes of the Temagami, Nipissing, Almaguin, Algonquin and Georgian Bay regions. With acrylics I’ve added “still life” paintings of old hockey skates and antique items to my list of subjects.
Tell us about yourself? In 2007, I was selected to join the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolours (CSPWC). I’ve shown my work throughout Ontario and my goal is to continue to learn and develop as an artist.
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Brent Trach - Trach Art Studio
brenttrachart.com | 705-752-1450 | Callander, ON
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Variegated Devas’ Nursery The goal of Lindy Vardy, owner of Variegated Devas’ Nursery, is to enrich the way the Universe gardens, by offering the healthiest, most ingeniously far reaching plant choices. She is obsessed by her “living palette” and this is shown in all of her creative and beautiful plant displays. Stop in and wander through her gardens or sign up for a class. Variegated Devas’ Nursery is Almaguin Highlands best eclectic nursery.
When did you start? We began to create a Nursery called the Variegated Devas’ in the year 2004 in the township of Perry, Ontario. We started when the timing was perfect. The goal of The Variegated Devas’ Nursery is to enrich the way the Universe gardens, by offering the healthiest, most ingeniously far reaching plant choices, enabling gardeners to worship unbridled, expressing wondrous passion.
What keeps you going? We are obsessed by the wonder of a palette which is alive. What better art form than one which contributes to the stewardship of our own existence? Fostering plants cleans the air we breathe… imagine a million tiny green lips on every leaf inhaling Co2… imagine reducing your own personal carbon footprint.
What do you see in your future? Past to present flowers connect humanity. We will endeavor to build a dream with one thumb in the altered vibrational world of spirit and the other expressing a wondrous passion.
How do we find you? Look on our website. We are Open Daily During the Grow Season ~ 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. It’s easy to miss us so watch for our NEW BILLBOARD and km. marker 240.
Any last words? We have set ourselves on fire with a passion for the world of plants. Come watch us burn. Oh yes - may the Devas be with you.
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Variegated Devas’ Nursery
variegateddevas.ca | 705-787-5812 | Emsdle, ON
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M organ Walker Morgan’s repertoire includes a multitude of art forms, each done with an eye for realism. But that doesn’t mean something completely different won’t come off the easel once in awhile. His numerous interests from landscapes, wildlife and anything mechanical ensure there is no shortage in subject matter for Morgan.
How did you become an artist? Luckily, the ability to create came naturally to me. The start of my art career was comprised of pencil sketches done on a commission basis. After a few years I taught myself how to paint with acrylics, and ventured into photography. Recently I’ve added wood carving (birds) to my repertoire with some National success.
Where do you like to work? I prefer to do my work via “plein air” even if it is just a quick sketch of something that piqued my interest or an idea I have for a piece. Working on site can reveal details that a photograph just couldn’t provide. This also allows you to get outside and see something different.
Whose work inspires you? I admire the work of many different artists such as The Group of Seven, F.S Coburn, Alex Colville, Ken Danby, Christopher Pratt, Robert Bateman, Robert Duncan, Frances Anne Hopkins, to name a few. There are just too many to list here. Inspiration and technique ideas can come from almost anywhere. They can come from the Old Masters to modern abstracts to the artist sitting next to you at an art collective.
Where can we see your work? My artwork can be viewed by appointment and I accept commissions. Please email or call me at: artbymorganw@hotmail.ca or (705) 474-2014.
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Morgan Walker
artbymorganw@hotmail.ca | 705-474-2014 | North Bay, ON
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D A RR EN C O P E LA N D Darren Copeland is a Canadian sound artist who makes his home at Warbler’s Roost, in South River, ON. He has been active as a sound artist since 1985 and is the founding and current Artistic Director of New Adventures in Sound Art. His sound art practice focuses on multichannel spatialization for live performance, fixed media composition, soundscape, radio art and sound installation. He studied electroacoustic composition under Barry Truax at Simon Fraser University and Dr. Jonty Harrison at the University of Birmingham (UK). Darren Copeland incorporates both abstract and referential sound materials in his fixed media compositions, and many of these works are published on the empreintes DIGITALes label. His radio art works engage in the associative qualities of environmental sounds in relation to spoken text and have been commissioned for public radio across Europe and North America. His sound installations include gallery and site-specific works which examine the relationship of sound and place.
When did you become interested in sound art? I became interested in electronic music when I was in my teens. It happened somewhat out of the blue as I had previously shown no interest in music but at that time something clicked and I began to focus my creative energy on exploring electronic music.
How did your journey begin? I began by taking lessons in analog syntheses and early digital sampling from Pier Rubesa in Toronto and then shortly after that began recording and self-publishing cassette releases of my music and trading cassettes with others doing the same – something of an international underground phenomena in the 80s.
Describe what it is you create? By the time I had completed my masters degree, my work had begun to use environmental sounds exclusively and I started identifying more as a sound artist rather than an electroacoustic composer. I found the label ‘music’ to be somewhat limiting because of the nature of the sounds I was using.
Where can we find you? I live at Warbler’s Roost where I run a bed and breakfast with my partner as well as mentor artists who stay as part of our Artist Residency program. Our 14-acre property is located at 3785D Eagle Lake Rd on Deer Lake, 20 minutes’ drive west of South River, Ontario, Canada.
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Darren Copeland - Warbler’s Roost
darrencopeland.net | 705-978-4447 | South River, ON
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Wooden Roo Mike Grima’s talent for detail and insistence on quality is evident when you enter the showroom of The Wooden Roo, located in Burk’s Falls. Furniture and unique handcrafted gifts from all across Canada are beautifully displayed with a decorator’s touch. There are solid pine floors throughout and Mike and Brigitte’s handcrafted staircase leads to the huge loft. Here the larger pieces of furniture and a local art gallery are displayed. The soaring two-story ceilings, massive wood beams and interesting window treatment elaborate upon the grand spectacle.
When did your interest in woodworking begin? I was born in Melbourne Australia and became an Electrician by trade but woodworking was always a hobby of mine. Growing up I enjoyed helping my father build things and renovating around both our house and beach cottage. As I grew older I started to make small furniture pieces for family, friends and myself. Eventually, I took some university courses on woodturning and cabinet making.
How did you and your wife meet? I met Brigitte, my wife and business partner when she was in Australia on a working holiday, and we married shortly thereafter. We started a family and dreamed of one day starting a business in the countryside in Australia.
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The Wooden Roo - Michael Grima
What brought you to the Almaguin Highlands? In 1985 we were here in the Almaguin Highlands visiting family, and we realized how beautiful and tranquil the area would be to live and raise our two children, the rest is “history” as they say.
What happened next? We sold up in Australia and made the big move to Canada, taking the first year to build our home and in 1988 The Wooden Roo was born. We started working from the garage and going to craft shows to sell our work but always with the dream to one day build a retail outlet/workshop on our property. In 1995 this became a reality. We built the main building to house the Wooden Roo.
920891@ican.net | 705-382-3812 | Burk’s Falls, ON
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Window s t o the No r t h G aller y Windows to the North is an art gallery, a studio, a classroom, a BnB, a coffee nook, a place to make new friends, a place to share stories and be creative, a safe place to express yourself through art. Windows to the North is a place you don’t want to miss.
How did the Gallery begin? In an effort to promote our local women artists we opened our doors in June 2011 with 14 artists, a lot of hard work and vision. The gallery has grown exponentially over the past five years and we currently represent more than 50 local women and their art.
What makes Windows to the North special? Our gallery and studio spaces are located on the shores of quiet and serene Poverty Bay just west of Magnetawan. Upon your arrival, you will be warmly welcomed into our home-based gallery, a magnificent space filled amazing art and spectacular views. We provide a place where everyone can experience acceptance and be celebrated for who they are.
What type of art do you carry? We carry fine art, oils acrylics and pastels, pottery, both functional and whimsical, high end silver and gold jewelry, stained glass, glass fusion, wood working and more! 46
Windows to the North Gallery
What else can we find at your Gallery? Along with the Gallery showroom, we hold a variety of classes for all ages including stained glass and glass fusion, pottery, jewellry and Paverpol to name a few. Whether you’re having a girls weekend and you want to create a moment with your friends or you just want to sign yourself or your family up to learn a new art, Windows to the North is a great place to do it.
When are you open? We are open year round. Please check our website or call for seasonal hours.
Is there anything else you would like to add? We also have a Bed & Breakfast. Our guests find spending a night in the Gallery is inspiring and fun. The pool table is open, the music is relaxing, the waterfront delightful and the food is fabulous!
windowstothenorth.com | 705-387-3085 | Magnetawan, ON
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We would like to thank our Sponsors for all their support! Michael Czura REMAX Legend Real Estate Inc., Brokerage 705.825.0505 90 Main St. Sundridge Supporting our Almaguin Highlands Artists
FOR ALL YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS Burk’s Falls & Sundridge Locations: 800.267.1904 or 800.267.8427 standarlinginsurance.com
Village of Burk’s Falls burksfalls.net
machartownship.net Linda Daniels
almaguinhighlandsartscouncil.com