Gathering of the Arts

 

 

The Gathering of the Arts, GoArts 2011 organized by Antigonish Culture Alive (ACA).  An opening Reception was held on July 4 at the Peoples’ Place Library in Antigonish. The reception celebrated the opening of the juried art exhibition.  Awards were presented to the Peoples’ Place in recognition of its support to the Arts Community. And to Michael Steinitz for his annual concert series work.   The reception was well attended and an opportunity to view the exhibits.

The juried Art Exhibit includes works from over 60 artists with a wide variety of media – oils, watercolor, pencil, photography, mixed media, textiles, quilting, sculpture, batik, weaving, and more. Art from L’Arche Horizons, Youth Art. Workshops and artist demonstrations. July 4-16, 2011

July 4 – 16
Peoples’ Place Library, Main St. Antigonish NS

1 minute video with a sampling of reception and exhibition.

 

Mahoneys Beach

 

 

Mahoneys Beach is situated at the mouth of Antigonish Harbour along the Sunrise Trail, just 11 KM out of Antigonish on Route 337.

 

View on Route 337

View on Route 337
 Along the route are beautiful views of rolling farmland, dairy farms and some spectacular glimpses of the meandering Antigonish Harbour.
Mahoneys Beach

Mahoneys Beach

 

 Mahoneys Beach is a relaxing sand and beach stone sand bar that you can walk along at low tide. Explore the lagoons and sandbar, the tide pools, and beach grasses and flowers.

Heron Fishing in Tide Pool

 

 I was lucky to see herons skimming along the coastline, wading in the tidal pools and fishing.

Kayak at Mahoneys Beach on a calm day

 

 On a calm day people were enjoying kayaking along the coast line. The many coves and islets make it an interesting place to explore.

Mahoneys Beach Collage

Mahoneys Beach Collage

Things to take

  • Beach shoes for walking on rocks
  • Hat, sun glasses, sun screen, long sleeve shirt
  • Insect repellent
  • Water
  • Snack – or grab a sandwich or Salad from the Prissy Pig Café and Deli on your way out of town
  • Camera

Directions

  • Head out of Antigonish past the hospital towards Cape George on Hwy 337 , along the Sunrise Trail approximately 11 KM. Turn right.
  • Parking available. No lifeguards or beach services

Aerial View of Coastline and Antigonish Harbour

Mahoney’s Beach – Aerial View Google

Spring in Nova Scotia

It has been many years since I experienced spring in Nova Scotia. What an amazing season of the year.  Buds and blossoms appear and unfold into masses of flowers and leaves — all in an amazingly short time.   Even with cloudy days – it just seemed to take a few hours of sun to have things burst into color.

Each tree had its own shape of bud and unfurling leave patterns.  A joy to watch and almost a magical process since each type of tree seems to be on the same schedule.  Suddenly overnight an entire area burst into flower.

Leaf buds grew and the tiny leaves would appear and come out crisp and shiny in shades of green and reds.  The tiny leaves grow amazingly fast and within days the trees are sporting a lush green canopy.  What an amazing process to go from the sculptured bare branches to the many greens now carpeting the countryside.

The Horse Chestnut trees were particularly amazing.  The buds had a very sculptured look and each day you could watch them grow till they finally burst into the unfurling leaves and the pod with the flower.  The flowers grow to an amazing 10 or more inches long made from tiny white and pink flowers.

 

Along with the colors of course are the bird songs as the birds return from their wintering grounds and feast on the buds and bugs.   The rushing streams and rivers add to the sounds of spring and invite walks and to explore and enjoy being out in nature.

And of course the apple blossoms with their delicate shades of pinks, reds and whites.

See the new Facebook page for Out and About Nova Scotia

The videos on this page are posted on the Facebook page. Please let me know if you have any problem viewing them from that location.

New People’s Place Library

 

 

WOW –  by 5PM today “more than 5,000 people had come through the doors” of the new People’s Place Library in Antigonish according to Eric Stackhouse, Chief Librarian of Pictou – Antigonish Regional Library.  This new happening place on Main Street was buzzing with excitement as people had the opportunity to explore all the nooks and crannies of the building.

People of all ages from toddlers up to seniors all found something just made to order for them – in the children’s room toddlers were listening to a story and looking at the picture book, in another corner two children were putting on a puppet show for their younger sister, other children were admiring the large fish tank.

All over the building there is a variety of beautiful and colorful art work – pennants hanging from the ceiling, paintings displayed in the windows, a beautiful circular stained glass interior window, a huge fireplace with welcoming arm chairs and a carved sculpture mantle, a loom with a resident weaver who will be weaving on site over the next few months, a curving stone bench near the entrance way that reminds you of the sea, and a great mural above the reception desk.

People were lined up to get a library card, check out books and ask questions from the helpful staff.  The staff have been eagerly awaiting their chance to move into this new building which is a dream come true for many who have worked in cramped and difficult conditions for years.

ACALA – the  Antigonish County Adult Learning Association, and Health Connections now have their new home here.  There are study carrels that are perfect for quiet study of for 2 or 3 people to work together.  A large meeting room with a folding door that opens out into the community kitchen, and a small meeting room setup with a multimedia system, whiteboard and work group tables will be perfect for smaller meetings.  There are several areas that are inviting to sit and read or chat or work on a project together.   Computer workstations are available – or you can bring your own computer for the WiFi free area.

Although the outside area is not fully complete you can walk between College Street and the Post Office and when this is fully paved the outside area will be inviting with its patios and  views of Brierly Brook.

Congratulations and thank you to everyone on the tremendous effort that went into the planning and implementation of this new community area on Main Street – the Antigonish Town and County Library – indeed The People’s Place.  It looks like it will become a hub of traffic and interest right in the centre of Antigonish and has opportunities for people of all ages.

Here are a few photos from the opening day – May 24, 2011

Articles

Library Has Room To Spare.  Halifax Chronicle Herald

Art Walk Antigonish

 

 

For a small town, Antigonish has a lot going on in the arts.  Enjoy a walk through town sampling exhibits and art.  The culture of creative people and the support and interest of the community makes this a “happening” place in the arts.

You can do this walk over a day – or spread out your visits.  Park your car and enjoy the spring weather and stroll.  This walk goes from the West end of Main Street (the Post Office end) ending at the East end where Main Street is getting a new bridge.   This walk on Main Street of less than 1 kilometer – plus one side trip to campus will impress you with the variety and creativity of the community.  The current exhibitions listed are for May, 2011.  Check the location websites or just drop in for changes.

ASAP Gallery Opening

ASAP Gallery Opening

ASAP:  All of Us Society for Art Presentation – A small new gallery space currently exhibiting paintings, photography and drawings from 5 art students of St FX – Kara Grant, Steve Scannell, Kevin MacIssac, Travis Myette, and TJ Ediger.  I enjoyed the recent gallery opening and getting to meet the next generation artists.  This place is at the back of the white building between the Post Office and Shoppers.   The summer hours are not posted yet – just see if the door is open and go down the stairs.  Kara Grant will be artist in residence till August.  The Studio, 319 Main St.

Cross the street to the Tall and Small

Tall and Small Cafe

Tall and Small Cafe

The Tall and Small Cafe – This popular café currently displays art from John Watt.  Grab a coffee or a delicious blueberry spritzer.   Hearty vegetarian sandwiches and home made soups are on daily specials.   Art exhibition in June by artists Vicki MacLean and Rudolph Hennninger.  342 Main St.

 

Almost next door

The Made In Nova Scotia Store

The Made In Nova Scotia Store Suzanne Craig Bio Prints

The Made in Nova Scotia Store – Selection of framed or matted photographs, photo gift cards and bio art prints.  All items in the store are from local artists and artisans.   www.themadeinnovacotiastore.com 324 Main Street

Cross the street

People’s Place Library – The opening is scheduled for May 24.  Art is an important and integral part of the new library complex.  Fourteen public art pieces will be permanently located in both the interior and exterior spaces of the new library. These include paintings, murals, textiles, sculptures, and more by local artists and artisans. In addition space for changing exhibits are featured in the foyer.  Artists and Artisans selected for the People’s Place Project 283 Main St. www.peoplesplace.ca See Article in The Casket on opening

On the corner of Main and College Street

Bergengren - Frieze by Fenn Martin

Bergengren - Frieze by Fenn Martin

Bergengren Credit Union –   Frieze by Fenn Martin “The Gift”  Read the story of the work which celebrates the journey of the Bergengren through 75 years.  257 Main St.

 

 

Just off Main Street  on College Street across from the old Town Hall

Alcove Restaurant

Alcove Restaurant - Julia Redgrave Exhibit

Alcove Restaurant – The current art exhibit is works by Julia Redgraves.  Enjoy an international quality lunch or dinner in a cozy atmosphere www.alcovebistro.ca 76 College Street

 

 

Continue on Main Street

Down to Earth Art Gallery and Fine Framing – Visit the gallery of J. Franklin Wright, A native of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia with beautiful marine paintings and limited edition prints.  Art by Maureen St. Clair, Alan Syliboy, April Burns, prints and photographs by local artists and photographers. http://www.downtoearth.ca 240 Main St.

Lyghtesome Gallery

Lyghtesome Gallery – This gallery has been a mainstay of culture in Antigonish since 1975. Promoting  artists from Antigonish and across the Atlantic region.  The May feature is the “Retrospective”  exhibit of Julia Redgraves coinciding with the St. F.X. University Gallery exhibition.   The gallery has a fine selection of original paintings, sculpture, prints, cards and works of art. www.lyghtesome.ns.ca 166 Main St.

Continue to the East end of Main Street, pass Columbus Field, where the yearly Highland Games are held in July.  On the corner of St. Andrew’s Street.

Prissy Pig - Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

Prissy Pig - Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

Prissy Pig Café and Deli – Antigonish Photographers Exhibit till June 30. Photographs in wide variety of styles and themes on exhibit by:  Jeffrey Parker, Peter Jowett, Betty Cameron, Stan Mizgala, Danny Polson, Jennifer Polson, Anne Louise MacDonald, F.X MacDonald, Bernice MacDonald and Denise Davies.  Have lunch or a brunch from this great local food restaurant.  Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

Side trip to the St FX Campus.  Walk or drive up College Street from Main Street, turn right on St. Ninian’s Street and turn left up Notre Dame – just before the St. Ninian’s Cathedral.  Continue up over the top of the hill to the Bloomfield Centre the last building on your right. Student Union Building.

St FX Art Gallery - Julia Redgrave

St FX Art Gallery - Julia Redgrave

St FX Gallery – The current exhibit is by Julia Redgrave “Life at the Edge” – a series of eighteen large paintings moving through the seasons and each featuring a letter and theme of Life on the Edge. The colours and style are gripping and there is also on display smaller print reproductions.

Upcoming Art Events 2011

Antigonish Culture Alive newsletter – For artists and those interested in the arts this is a “must have” e-newsletter and quarterly print newsletter.  Whether you are local or visiting –  sign up to get the newsletter for a nominal fee to find out upcoming events to help you plan your calendar.  http://www.antigonishculturealive.ca/

X Ring Featured at Cameron’s Jewellery

 

 

Do You Have an X Ring?  Chances are you have been into Cameron’s Jewellery on Main Street, Antigonish.

Camerons_Jewellery_X_Feature

The "X" featured in Floor Inlay and Chandelier

Cameron’s on Main St. Antigonish has undergone a transformation and their new look is bright and inviting.  With the interior design of Andrew Murray of Antigonish the store has a new look that celebrates the traditions of the past but adds the sparkle and modern décor of the present.

The center piece that features its “X” connection is a large black marble “X” inlay in the center of the floor area with an inlay of “1922” when the store was first opened.   Above it is a chandelier with the “X” and crystal pendants.

The X Ring dates back to 1942.  Working with the engineering class of St. Francis Xavier University, Cameron’s Jewellery designed the present X-Rings, a gold ring featuring a black enamel X within a raised gold square, with the date of graduation flanking the X on its shoulders.

The wooden oak cabinets running along the wall are the original oak cabinets with

Cameron's 90 Year Old Oak Wood Cabinets

Cameron's 90 Year Old Oak Wood Cabinets

design that highlights the oak grain.  The cabinets are 90 years old and have been refurbished by CACL to bring out the beauty of the wood.

The large fireplace on the opposing wall gives a comfortable feel to the shopping experience and highlights art work on the feature wall.   According to Donna MacPherson, the store manager “We had incredible craftsmen for the stonework, woodwork, electrical and fittings” in making over the store look.  On our buying trip we looked for new items that were not currently available in Antigonish.

Cameron’s is a great place to shop for gifts, home decorating items, dishes and jewellery.  The tasteful selection of items and the welcoming staff make this a great Main Street destination.

Browse the slide show using the arrow keys and click on the “Caption” button on the right to view the captions.

[slideshow]

In the early evening the lighting on the displays adds a sparkle to Main Street.  Be sure to stop in for a visit to see this new gem on Main Street.

Community Theatre Is Alive and Well

Last Sunday (April 17, 2011)  I saw the Sunday matinee at the Pond Playhouse in Halifax of “An Enemy of the People” – by Henrik Ibsen. Adapted by Arthur Miller. Although the play was written in 1882 the plot is contemporary today involved with issues of science, the environment, the role of the press and politicians and how greed and corruption and self interest wage war with truth that may be uncomfortable or inconvenient.

The excellent cast, staging and production were very professional and engaging in every aspect. Directed by Gisela O’Brien and produced by Bill VanGorder.

This YouTube video gives an insight into the characters and plot and the quality of the production.

 

The play runs to April 30 2011.  Check below for links to dates and tickets.

Theatre Arts Guild TAG

Theatre Arts Guild TAG

Having seen the play I was interested to find out that The Theatre Arts Guild (TAG) in Halifax, was established 1931 and is celebrating 80 years of continuous Community Theatre. It is Canada’s oldest continually operating community theatre.

 

TAG, is a great example of community theatre in Nova Scotia.   It is a completely volunteer run organization and has 300+ members who manage and participate in adding this rich component to the cultural life.

The Pond Playhouse which hosts TAG has undergone building developments

Pond Playhouse TAG

Pond Playhouse TAG

and changes – all through the efforts of its volunteers.   Each year some new aspect is taken on as a project.  For example:

  • The new upstairs rehearsal hall above the foyer allows for rehearsing a 2nd play while one is in production.  It gives space for some changing and costume storage during a play.
  • The new technical and sound room is upgraded with state of the art computerized sound and lighting management
  • The new Foyer and reception area gives cast and audience a place to mingle and chat after performances.   The mosaic plaque thanks the many sponsors who have supported TAG financially
  • The playhouse now seats 95 in comfortable raised seats having an excellent view and hearing from any spot in the house.
TAG

TAG

Location:   Pond Playhouse, 6 Parkhill Road, Halifax, NS.

TAG ticket prices $16 Non members. $13 members / Seniors / Students. Available at Atlantic Superstore or by phone 902-451-1221 or online at www.ticketsatlantic.com

Upcoming at TAG 2011 Spring season

  • Laundry and Bourbon / Lone Star
  • 80 Years of Musicals

Community Theatre – Halifax area

  • Dartmouth Players
  • Theatre Arts Guild
  • Bedford Players
  • Quick as a Wink Theatre Society

Theatre Nova Scotia

Theatre Nova Scotia promotes the interest of theatre province wide  www.theatrens.ca

Whether you are living in Nova Scotia or traveling – check out the calendar and locations to find plays that you will enjoy.  If you are living near a community theatre – consider getting involved. This could be acting on stage, helping out with props and sets, fundraising or the many other areas.  Great way to get involved in the community and have fun.

Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

 

 

Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

Antigonish has always been known for its thriving art community.  Now photographers in Antigonish have formed a group called “Antigonish Photographers Exhibit (APx)” which will have their first exhibition beginning April 16 at the Prissy Pig Café and Deli.

The formation of the group is the brainchild of Jeff Parker, owner of Lyghtesome Gallery.  According to Jeff  “Over the years the gallery (Lyghtesome) has been called upon to exhibit photography.  I am a photographer myself and  I am often approached by photographers to exhibit their work.  But we don’t show much photography in our gallery and many photographers have been disappointed. “

“When a request was presented to us by the management of the Prissy Pig to assist them in establishing an exhibition schedule, ‘local photographers’ is what first came to mind.   The Café and Deli has excellent gallery space and according to the General Manager of the Prissy Pig,  “We want to support and promote the local arts scene, local photographers and musicians. “

Jeffrey explained   “I put together a list of photographers that I knew of and then expanded that with the help of Steven Jewkes of the Photo Shop at the Antigonish 5 to $1 and called a meeting to plan a group photo exhibition.    In our initial meeting we decided that we would put up a group show.  Each of us has our own styles and interests and it will be very interesting to see the range in a show of this type.  We haven’t set out any specific themes and the individual works will be selected by the photographers themselves.   This first show will feature 10 photographers and the works will be on sale. “

The Antigonish Photographers Exhibit (APx) will hold its first exhibition opening with a reception on April 16th at the Prissy Pig Café and Deli.  The opening reception will be 7PM to 9PM and refreshments will be served.  We hope that everyone will stop in to view the exhibit and chat with the photographers.   Everyone is welcome.

Photographs will be on exhibit by – Jeffrey Parker, Peter Jowett, Betty Cameron, Stan Mizgala, Danny Polson, Jennifer Polson, Anne Louise MacDonald, F.X MacDonald, Bernice MacDonald and Denise Davies.   The group members are excited at the opportunity and have been appreciating the synergies in the group. Our hopes are that the group will expand and perhaps offer presentation and information nights to assist in technical training and upgrading in this continually changing field. To enjoy and learn from each others expert knowledge is one of our emerging interests in continuing the pursuit and recognition of photography as our contemporary art form.

We would like to thank our sponsors who have supported the group – Jeffrey Parker of Lyghtesome Gallery, Steven Jewkes of Antigonish 5 Cents-$1.00, and Danny Polson of Polson Design Studio and to The Prissy Pig Café’ and Deli for providing the exhibition space and facilities.

A few photos from the APx photographers.  Click on the Arrow key to view the photos.  Click on the “Captions” on the right side to view the photographer name and photo title.

[slideshow]


APx Premier Exhibition and Sale

Group of 10 Prominent Antigonish Photographers
At the Prissy Pig 20 St. Andrews St. (corner of Main St) Antigonish
April 16 – June 30th, 2011
Reception April 16th 7-9 p.m..
Refreshments will be served, All are Welcome

  • Download poster –

  • APx Poster

    APx Poster

 

 

 

 

Hike the Acadian Trail

The Pomquet Acadian Trail and Chez Deslaurier

Acadian Trail - Wildflowers

Colorful Wildflowers on the Acadian Trail

This October day was a perfect day for a hike with crisp clean air, deep blue sky with spectacular ocean views from a grassy meadow high above the ocean looking over St. George’s Bay and a view of Cape Breton in the distance.   The sunlight shone on fields of wild flowers in purples, yellows, golds, reds and orange with even a few butterflies and dragon flies humming around.

Chez Deslaurier is a tea house set in an old farm house on high ground, not

Chez Deslauriers

Chez Deslauriers – Pomquet

far from Pomquet.  This is an Acadian French area of Nova Scotia where French is spoken and Acadian traditions are still celebrated.

From the farm house you overlook Monk’s Head and a series of islands and islets and Pomquet Beach.  With the sun and cloud playing over the land and the sea you could sit for hours and watch the changes in the light and shadow.

Behind the farm house several old farm implements are set off in the grassy meadow.   Keep walking along the grassy track with the water to your right and you will come to the trail head for the “Acadian Trail”.

Pomquet Acadian Trail

Pomquet Acadian Trail – Map

The trail is well marked and has maps of the area with a choice of several loop trails. The trails wind  through a variety of natural areas. Numbered markers along the trails are linked to a self-guided interpretive brochure, available at Chez Deslauriers.  The walking is easy and suitable for families.  A longer trail continues along the water and along Monks Head.

The first part of the trail is along an old cart road through a grassy meadow

Acadian Trail

Acadian Trail

area.  In fall this was thick with wild flowers of all colors – Queen Anne’s Lace, wild roses, clover, daisies, asters and grasses.  Off to the right were the views of the deep blue ocean below and towards Cape Breton.    This grassy trail is along the cliff top with open fields and hedged with evergreens and the occasional fruit tree.

The path then descends with a choice of going to the right down to the beach.  We took the left fork which heads down into a beautiful forest area with a well kept trail.  There were many varieties of mosses in greens with patches of reds,

Acadian Trail Forest Path

Acadian Trail Forest Path

evergreens and many types of mushrooms.     The light filtering through the forest was cool and inviting and great for exploring.   This is a great place to go with your camera and bring along a book about trees or mosses.  You will definitely find lots to investigate.

A left turn at a small pond takes you back to the open old farm land and leads back up to the Chez Deslaurier house in a circle route.  The whole short loop route took less than an hour.    You can easily spend a day in the area exploring the different trails or head down to Pomquet Beach.

The Chez Deslauriers property is maintained and administered by the

Mushrooms and Mosses

Mushrooms and Mosses

Pomquet Development Society, a volunteer organization aimed at promoting the Acadian culture and encouraging tourism in the community.  According to Collette Rennie of the Pomquet Development Society,  “The trails are open year-round. [The Society] will be performing maintenance on these trails before the summer ‘walking’ season as winter along the coast can create much damage. The tearoom will be open each Friday beginning on July 8 from 11 AM to 2 PM.  We serve a different traditional homemade Acadian meal each Friday, along with traditional Acadian meatpie ($8 per meal). “

Chez Deslauriers Tea Houase

Chez Deslauriers Tea House and Interpretive Centre

“The interpretive centre will be open during those times as well. As well, we will have two lobster roll dinners during the summer – on August 14 and September 11. Both will be from 3-6 PM and include local entertainment, BBQ and a delicious lobster roll meal. The interpretive centre will be available to visitors as well during these two events. This information will soon be posted on our website.” (http://www.pomquet.net/en/trails.html )

Photo Gallery

[slideshow]

How to get there

To get to  Pomquet, take either Exit 35 or 36 north off Highway 104.  Then turn right at the north end of Monk’s Head Road and follow the gravel road for approximately 1.5 km.  It is approximately a 25 minute drive from Antigonish or 40 minutes from the Canso Causway if you are coming from Cape Breton.

Antigonish to Chez DesLaurier


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Updates and more information