My landscapes are inspired by plein air sketching sessions ,one of life’s great treasures. Sometimes paintings are completed on site, while at other times reference sketches done on location are used to produce studio work. Working on location allows me to absorb the sights and sounds, to see the shapes and rhythms that present themselves, to be in the moment , to feel the breeze and smell the grasses and flowers, to hear the birds sing or the dogs bark or the children laugh and sometimes to battle the bugs or heat or cold. All of these things contribute to my understanding of the spirit of the place, and bring my soul solace, peace, and joy which are reflected in my work.

Susan’s self directed study and participation in workshops offered by both local and regional artists, have contributed to her growth as an artist. Susan has attended courses in plein air painting at Southampton Art School and in Killarney as well as drawing and painting courses offered by the University of Western Ontario Continuing Studies Department. Susan has painted on location in Southwestern Ontario, Northern Ontario, Newfoundland, England, France and Italy.

Susan has served on the executive of The Lambeth Art Association, The Gallery Painting Group and the Brush and Palette Club. She is a member of The Central Ontario Art Association and CARFAC as well as an Associate Member of each of: The Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour, The Transparent Watercolor Society of America and The Society of Canadian Artists.

www.susangarrington.com
http://susangarrington.blogspot.com

Len particularly enjoys the transparency, fluidity and speed of watercolour, his preferred medium. He tends to use watercolours boldly with pure colours in rich washes exploiting and exploring the vibrancy and capabilities of the medium.

He has been influenced by the works of the French Impressionists, Tom Thomson, and the Group of Seven in their use of colour to convey the effect of sunlight. His philosophy towards painting is modelled on that of Sir Winston Churchill, an accomplished artist, who once said; “contentment is a joyride in a paint-box for which audacity is the only ticket.”

Landscapes featuring water and reflections are one of his favourite subjects. So too, are the town and village scenes of the Languedoc region of southern France which he frequently visits.

Len has had solo exhibitions and also shown his work in group exhibitions at various locations including Museum London. He has received various awards. Len exhibits at Sunset Arts in Grand Bend.

Visit his website: www.LenHughesArt.ca

Having always loved being creative, she began decorative painting in 1991, and was soon teaching in local shops and around her kitchen table. She continues to teach today in her home studio. Focusing on watercolour, under the guidance of local artist Ellen Erenberg, she developed her talent and had the opportunity to illustrate 2 children’s books. Henry & Harriet, (a story about grief) and Beaver Tales (Alzheimers and dementia).

Loving all mediums from acrylic to oil and pastel, she now considers herself to be a mixed-media artist. She believes all forms of art to be a true gift, both to the artist and the viewer as well. “Art should be uplifting and inspiring.”

Original encaustic paintings, watercolours and illustrated children’s books.

www.annakoot.com

After becoming a teacher in special education I joined an informal group of people who liked to get together one evening per week to paint under the leadership of a professional artist. As was the fashion in those days in Holland, much emphasis was placed on free expression, greatly ignoring technical instruction of any kind.

In 1969 I imigrated to Canada, where work and family life took priority, and for years there was just no time to practice or develop any painting skills. After almost 30 years living in Sault Ste. Marie we moved to London, where soon after my husband died.

A year later I stepped inside the Byron library to see what the painting group was all about, and I have not left since! When I found out about the many painting opportunities in and around London I made it my goal to learn and practice as much as I could.

I joined several painting clubs and painting groups, attending workshops as much as possible, and I have been taking advantage of the many art courses that are offered in Ontario, Michigan and overseas.

I have taken part in a number of Novacks trips to Italy, France, UK and Northern Ireland under leadership of Kevin Bice; to be able to sketch and paint those beautiful locations is a great experience. Also trips in Canada and overseas with a small group of friends provided lots of opportunities to paint and sketch on location.
Since the year 2000 I have regularly taken part in a variety of local and provincial art shows.

I am very grateful for the many wonderful people I have met and for the encouragement of teachers and fellow painters alike.

ahusnik0706@rogers.com
www.ameliahusnik.com

Hosted by the South Huron District High School Music Council, Grandpa Jimmy’s Scottish Bakery (36 Ontario Street North,  Grand Bend) will be the site of an Open Mic Coffee House. Local talent abounds, so this Open Mic event promises musical gems.

The Open Mic Coffee House runs from 2-4pm on Saturday, May 13.

The action is all taking place at The Gables on Saturday, May 12. Doors open at 6pm; show starts at 7pm.

General admission tickets are available from The Colonial Hotel & Restaurant (1 Main Street West, Grand Bend) or Baillie’s Picture Framing (22 – 81 Crescent Street, Grand Bend) or call 519-238-6873 or visit www.ticketscene.ca.

About Big Rude Jake

Jake is a lyricist, songwriter, singer and musician with a diverse array of influences.

Noted for his skill as a ‘blues shouter’ and the ‘swing punk’ sound of his first few albums, he is especially drawn to the roots of American music. You’ll hear blues, jazz, swing, rockabilly, jump, gospel, folk and his distinctive fingerpicking ragtime guitar. Add a little cabaret and some punk attitude, and you’ve got Big Rude Jake.

Learn more about Big Rude Jake at www.bigrudejake.ca.

Barbara Durand Photo Restoration and Design
519-236-4561
www.barbarad-bluelakestudio.com

Participating artists include: Michael Billette, Josy Britton Derek Culbard, Darrell Densmore, Pat Downie, Barb Durand, Tristan Eekhoff, Mary Lynn Fluter, Richard Ford, Susan Garrington, Vicky Guerette, Anne Hamilton, Len Hughes, Amelia Husnik, Skip Izon, Brian Knight, Anna Koot, Anne Luxton, Ralph MacEachern, Teresa Marie, Barb McKnight, Tony Miller, Bill Nieuwland, Lynne Pinchin, Barry Richman, Linda Rupp, Suzette Terry, Sandra Thomas, Lorraine Thomson, Anne Thornton, Kristyn Watterworth, Jack Winn, Laura Wright and the photographers of the Port Franks Camera Club.

View and download a PDF version of our 2012 Studio Tour – Arts, Eats & Beats.