Planning for the future included re-locating ourselves. Markham’s growth direction just wasn’t going where we wanted. Construction was never-ending. A major shift in ethnicity was becoming all too evident. In a nutshell, the Town was changing. Over a year ago, we decided it was now or never, so we invested our time in researching and visiting communities to settle in.
Criteria included being in Ontario to be close to family, diversity in population, stability in infrastructure and amenities, cost-efficient and a positive forward-thinking sense of community.
We lucked out. After reading an article about a stunning London neighbourhood, Robyn decided that we scope out Wortley Village in London’s ‘Old South’ district. An eclectic mix of tradition mixed with an almost bohemian attitude to living, Wortley Village has everything you need within a reasonable walking distance. No cookie-cutter housing. Each house has it’s own individual style. The area is tree-lined with century-old maples and firs reaching to the sky. Gardens are lush with beds full of lilies, cone flowers and hostas. And the evenings are so quiet.
This was it. This is where we want to settle. Our ‘new’ home is over 80 years old, on a street surrounded by churches of all denominations. The community boasts an arts and cultural ambience. We can walk to the bank, the grocery store, the pharmacy, the library, the art gallery, the hardware store and several restaurants and cafés. We can buy our bread freshly-baked from the bakery, or organic grains from the health-food store.
So what does this mean for art? My art?
The Art Exchange, a local gallery and framing establishment are currently holding it’s first annual ‘Square Foot Exhibition & Sale’, and yes, I submitted a piece to get my feet wet in the local art community. An old favourite “Icehouse” fitted the criteria and is now on display at the main gallery location. The exhibition includes a variety of techniques and talents and is reflective of the local art community.
My next plans are to set up the home studio. I need a space where the whole family can paint and create. Nick is off to take fine arts at university this fall. Rhiana is getting herself ready for new exhibits. Robyn’s already gone to town with decorating the house the way we want it both inside and out. So I, need to create some new pieces.
When? You’ll have to wait and see.
