Local Artists And Peterborough Community Rally In Support Of The Painted Paddle Project

A final farewell exhibit of The Painted Paddle will be on display at this month’s First Friday event on April 1 from 6 - 10 p.m. inside the Jason Wilkins Factory to commemorate the ending of a month-long public art initiative and online auction.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA.

During the month of March, a series of 34 hand-painted paddles were displayed in store windows throughout the downtown as part of an interactive self-guided art tour and online auction.

The public art initiative created opportunity for Peterborough residents to celebrate the connection to the waterways in the Nogojiwanong/Peterborough while mobilizing local artists to create wonderful works of art for a very good cause.

With so many local artists attributed to the project the Painted Paddle was a true showcase of our visual art scene. Residents embraced the self-guided art installation- which garnering over 7,000 views online through the exhibit’s interactive paddle map.

34 local artists donated their time to the project.

"What I have come to understand, is that I truly come to life when I am creating, and I am an artist at the core of my being, striving to creatively maneuver this life,” said Kelly Albin of Blue Frog Legs Studio. “I believe art has the ability to bring people together and is an integral part of our community as it provides us with a means of authentic connection regardless of educational, socioeconomic, language or cultural barriers."

Community members raised over $6,000 while bidding on paddles.

All proceeds raised through the online Painted Paddle auction will support the Downtown Green Team, a DBIA partnership with the One City Employment Program. Proceeds will fund a downtown horticultural maintenance crew for people who are experiencing barriers to traditional employment.

Friday will be the last chance to view the entire Painted Paddle exhibition before the paddles are divided up to auction winners.

Paddles will be on display at 6 p.m. on Friday at Jason Wilkins Factory Action winners will be able to pick up their paddle art pieces at the Jason Wilkins Factory from 8 - 10 p.m.

“I am super excited that my studio, the Jason Wilkins Factory, will be displaying all 34 beautiful paddles created by local artists for the DBIA’s Paddle Project, to raise funds for One City Peterborough,” Jason Wilkins, local artist and owner of Jason Wilkins Factory. “It’ll be amazing to see all that beautiful work together in one spot and hung alongside other works by 15 Peterborough Arts Collective artists- for our monthly group show.”

For more information on the Painted Paddle project contact the DBIA Vibrancy Manager, Dawn Pond by email at dawn@ptbodbia.ca.

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Kawartha Potters Guild Presents Celebrate Ceramics Fundraiser

Kawartha Potters Guild will be hosting ‘Celebrate Ceramics’, a fundraiser to support their not-for-profit pottery guild and art community on April 8.

Potters from Kawartha Potters Guild donate bowls to YWCA Empty Bowls fundraiser each year. Photo courtesy of Kawartha Potters Guild.

Tickets are $75 and available at Kawartha Potters Guild at 993 Talwood Dr.

Attendees at the fundraiser will be entered into a draw. When their number is called they will be able to chose a piece of donated pottery to take home.

Guests can also enjoy live music, complimentary food and a glass of wine.

Those that purchase a $75 ticket can bring a friend for an extra $25, though they will not be eligible to bring home a piece of pottery.

Pottery that has been donated to the fundraiser is currently on display at the Kawartha Potters Guild. Pieces can be viewed Tues – Fri: 1-5 p.m. or by appointment with Donna O'Brien, administrator@kawarthapottersguild.com.

The event will be hosted April 8, 7-9 p.m. at the Lions Club, 347 Burnham St.

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Peterborough Artist Raises $8,450 For Ukraine With Auction

Local artist Nick Leniuk of Riverbend Studio raised $8,450 for the Canada Ukraine Foundation-Ukrainian Canadian Congress by auctioning a handmade, Ukraine inspired carving.

Nick Leniuk in his home studio with his piece ‘Rise Above’.

When Russia invaded Ukraine in February, Leniuk, a first generation Canadian-Ukrainian, knew he wanted to do something to help.

As a sculptor, he decided on creating and auctioning a unique piece.

All the pieces Leniuk carves are drawn by hand, though because he wanted to get this one done quickly he searched the internet for a silhouette of a sunflower, Ukraine’s national flower.

He found a silhouette he liked and learned it was drawn by a Russian artist, who completely supported Leniuk’s intentions.

Leniuk facilitated the auction through his social media, with bids coming through direct messages, with the auction closing Monday at 4 p.m.

By Monday morning the bidding was at about $1,500, but soon a bidding war began.

“There were two bidders that were upping it by about $100 every half hour or so,” he said. “I was getting stressed out. I always feel bad because not everyone can win.”

With about three minutes left in the auction and two bidders competing, a third bidder offered $3,000, says Leniuk.

“I was floored,” said Leniuk. “I couldn’t update my sites quick enough.”

One bidder dropped out, while the second proposed an idea to Leniuk.

They suggested that Leniuk ask the winning bidder if he could make a second sunflower piece, which they would purchase for $3,000.

The winning bidder agreed, which means Leniuk has sold two pieces at $3,000.

“He was happy to go along with that proposal,” said Leniuk. “As long as he got the first piece, only two were ever made and that his was certified as the original.”

Both winning bidders requested that they remain anonymous.

The additional money was donated by friends, family and supporters on Leniuk.

“I had really modest expectations, but it snowballed into something that was bigger than I ever expected.”

Leniuk, who’s father Antony was born in Ukraine and came to Canada after World War Two, still has family in Europe.

His cousin, born in Ukraine and living in Paris, has a son that has returned to Ukraine to resist foreign invaders.

Leniuk notes that although this is a different war, and different times, his family has gone through this before.

His uncle, who he was named after, fought in the Ukrainian resistance during World War Two. He was discovered by police who were cooperating with Nazis, and never seen again.

His cousins son reached out to Leniuk, and thanked him for his contribution from Canada.

“It’s gratifying to be able to contribute on behalf of so many people,” he said. “It’s the people that make these this happen.”

Leniuk will officially make the donation this week, after payments are finalized, and post the receipt on social media.

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SPARK Photo Festival Launches App For Mapped Exhibits Around Peterborough

Seeing the work of 26 artists throughout April became more convenient as the 2022 SPARK Photo Festival launched a mobile app mapping exhibits across Peterborough that launched Monday.

“Big Yellow Taxi” by Heather Doughty. Doughty developed a passion for nature combined with her photography and is located at 129 Hunter St. W. Photo courtesy of SPARK Photo Festival.

The free app Toureka! — developed by Peterborough’s Brad Carson — contains digital versions of each exhibit with information and provides pinpoint locations for viewing each piece in person. The festival runs throughout April until the 30th.

The interactive map on the website is the web-browser version of the app. There is also have a print brochure (with an old-school map), free to pick up at exhibit venues.

“These new digital tools allow visitors to find more information about the photographers, the venues, and exhibit hours while on-the-go, at the same time reducing our environmental impact,” says Ken Powell, Chair, SPARK Board of Directors. “The photographers and venues put in a huge amount of effort creating their exhibits and we’re making it easier for everyone to find them and tour the region throughout the month.”

The app’s funding came from the Ontario Trillium Foundation Community Building Fund. The grant covered a portion of the operating costs to help SPARK recover from the effects of the pandemic.

There will be a QR code posted at each exhibit that visitors can scan to visit the SPARK website and get direct links to the interactive Festival map and the app stores or get the Toureka! app online. Everything you need to visit SPARK is at your fingertips.

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Peterborough Artist Averie Wilkins Follows In Her Dad Jason Wilkins Footsteps With Her First Sale

Averie Wilkins, 16, is celebrating selling her first piece of art, following in her dad Jason Wilkins footsteps and pursuing a career as an artist.

Averie with a piece she did for her brother.

Averie says she has been drawing since she was young, and has memories of drawing beside her dad when she was four.

Now at 16, she draws inspiration from anime and other shows she likes. She practices different mediums like water colours, gouache, and pen and also enjoys drawing digital pieces on her dads iPad.

Jason, Averie’s dad, is a professional illustrator, live event artist, muralist and workshop instructor located in Peterborough.

Etsy is an e-commerce site usually tailored to handmade products like art, jewelry and crafts.

Averie set up her online shop a few months ago and until recently had been yet to make a sale. Until someone named David purchased a piece on March 6.

“It was really a relief. I thought no one was going to buy anything especially since I had been waiting for months,” she said. “But I got a notification on my phone and it was from Etsy. I read it and someone had purchased an item at my shop. Just a really happy and uplifting moment for me.”

Jason says he’s proud to see his daughter succeeding as an artist already at such a young age.

“I’ve always expressed to all of my kids that as long as they’re happy with what they do for a living, then I’m happy. Whatever that might be. You have to love what you do,” he said. “But it is really cool to see Averie as passionate about art as I was at her age. She’s got talent but I’ve told her that’s only half the battle - patience and work.”

While as a dad, seeing his daughter do what she loves is encouraging, as an artist seeing another artist succeed is a different level of admiration.

“I’m so proud of her for putting herself out there. It’s not an easy thing to do,” he said. “I remember George Elliott coming to speak in my high school art class. He said ‘You’re not a career artist until you sell your first piece.’ It just validates all your efforts and really makes you feel like you’re doing what you were meant to do.”

Averie says while seeing her Dad succeed as an artist has influenced her decision to pursue art, his technique is not something they share.

“He has really proven that you can be very successful and support yourself through doing something you love,” she said. “However I definitely don’t think he has had much influence on my technique, since our styles are both different. I think it’s because we are both from different times. If anything my oldest brother Sam had a big impact because he’s the one who got me into anime.”

Averie’s art can be viewed on her Instagram and purchased on her Etsy shop.

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The Art Gallery of Peterborough to Reopen on Friday

After undergoing month-long renovations, the Art Gallery of Peterborough and Gallery Shop are reopening on Friday.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The gallery has been closed since Feb. 2 for the installation of a new lighting system. The reopening includes exciting new exhibitions according to the Art Gallery.

The shop sells ceramic, glass, jewelry and more. Their items feature artists and makers from the Peterborough-Kawartha region and beyond.

For more updates visit www.agp.on.ca

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Kate Suhr Will Take To The Stage At Market Hall After Two Years Without Indoor Concerts

After two years of postponements, Kate Suhr will take to the stage at Market Hall Performance Centre to perform her new cabaret “The Song Goes On.”

Photo by Mary Zita Payne.

“It just feels like it’s time,” said Suhr. “I feel so hopeful about this, I think because of the spring - there's a rebirth and with all that's going on in the world right now especially we need music and art.”

Suhr’s cabaret was initially planned for 2020 but when COVID hit it was put on the back burner.

“The show itself has adapted because there's been so much change,” she said. “Some songs I had chosen don’t seem as applicable now as they did two years ago.”

The evening will feature Musical Director Anthony Bastianon as well as Saskia Tomkins, Sybil Shanahan, Sam Quinn and Curtis Conkwright. Other special guests include Linda Kash, Megan Murphy, Shannon McCracken, Geoff Bemrose, Melissa Payne and Kate Brioux.

“I am feeling hopeful that the community will open their arms to coming back to the theatre and I’m excited because I know how powerful art is, it has the power to heal and help us process.”

The performance will take place on March 25 at 7 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased at tickets.markethall.org.

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The Verandah Sessions – Songs From The Verandah Society Album Now Available To Download

4th Line Theatre has announced the release of a new album – The Verandah Sessions, comprised of songs from The Verandah Society in Residence at 4th Line Theatre created by Megan Murphy and Kate Suhr.

The album cover design was created by Jennifer Moher.

The Verandah Society in Residence at 4th Line Theatre had its world premiere at 4th Line Theatre in the summer of 2021. The play was first developed as a way for Murphy and Suhr to connect with and perform for people during the pandemic, as they traveled around the region to perform on people’s porches, verandahs, and backyards.

“I am really excited for everyone to hear Kate’s transcendent songs, which she created for last summer’s production of The Verandah Society at 4th Line Theatre,” said Kim Blackwell, managing artistic director. “For those who were not able to see the show, Kate’s songs will give you a real sense of the beauty of the work. And for those lucky enough to see the production, this music with transport you back."

"It was an unbelievable gift to be able to create art with my dear friend Megan Murphy at the Winslow farm this past summer,” said Kate Suhr. “After immersing myself in Meg's inspirational stories and then spending time with my own thoughts and feelings surrounding the last few years - 4 new songs were born. I am truly thankful for 4th Line Theatre's generosity and continuous support. I am also indebted to the incomparable Saskia Tomkins and James McKenty for embracing my music and breathing life into everything I was hoping to convey. Without all of these wonderful people, this recording, and these songs would never have seen the light of day. I am humbled and I am grateful."

The album is available for download on Bandcamp and Apple Music.

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4th Line Theatre Announces Artists Participating In 2022 Interdisciplinary Residency Program

4th Line Theatre has announced the artists participating in their first ever interdisciplinary residency program for regional artists.

Photos courtesy of 4th Line Theatre.

Five residencies, which will provide opportunities for artists, based in or who are, from Millbrook, Peterborough, Lakefield, Port Hope, Cobourg and the surrounding environs, to develop a new work.

The artists participating in the program will be Madeline Brown, Laurin Isiekwena, Simon Mazziotti, Madison Sheward and Kate Suhr.

The 2022 Interdisciplinary Residency Program will foster artistic development and engagement between 4th Line Theatre, local artists and community members in theatre, music theatre, dance and poetry.

“In our continuing effort to give regional artists opportunities to explore and create new work, we have developed these longer form residencies for just that purpose.”

Laurin Isiekwena will be creating new works of poetry. Madeleine Brown will be working on a piece of theatre about the student fight to keep Peterborough Collegiate from being permanently closed. Kate Suhr will be working in a play with music about the inherited family trauma of addiction. Madison Sheward and Simon Mazziotti will both be developing new choreographic works.

The residencies will begin in February 2022. They will feature a hybrid (digital and live) presentation in October 2022. The presentation will showcase a performance from each of the resident artists.

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Buckhorn Community Centre To Host 40th Annual Craft Show In Person

After nearly two years of cancelled or virtual events the Buckhorn Community Centre (BCC) will host their Spring Craft Show May 21 and 22.

Photo courtesy of The Buckhorn Community Centre.

The show will take place at the Buckhorn Community Centre, assuming that COVID-19 restrictions will allow in-person events at that time.

The craft show will feature local makers and artisans from the Peterborough and Kawartha area. They will not allow resale or membership vendors.

“We are so excited to be back in person for the 40th annual Buckhorn Spring Craft Show,” said Jocelynn Vieira, coordinator.

Tickets will be on sale at the BCC in April.

To apply to be a vendor click here.

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