Thursday, December 25, 2008

CPR Holiday Train Steams into the Junction of History

CPR HOLIDAY TRAIN STEAMS INTO THE JUNCTION OF HISTORY
By Neil Ross

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train steamed into the Junction Tuesday night, flying Canadian and American flags and a neon Christmas tree. The Junction crowd was made up of families and other residents jubilant to be allowed access to the railway yard for the first time in their lives. Apparently, the train’s stop was something of a coup for Councillor Saundercook who appeared in a box car with Councilors Nunziata and Palacio. The Holiday Train raises money for local food banks and it was a joy to be able to contribute knowing the proceeds would go to be used right here in the community as the cold weather was a grim reminder of how much we need to share in this northern clime. Also sharing were Tim Horton’s who provided free coffee and hot chocolate to the crowd. This is the tenth anniversary of the holiday train and over its decade it’s raised two hundred and thirteen tons of food and over one and a half million dollars.

As the big doors opened on the side of the box car the unmistakable strains of the theme to the Friendly Giant swept across the crowd. Santa Claus himself was the first performer channeling James Brown as the hardest working man at the North Pole and revealing an extraordinary set of lungs on the long notes. Also featured were Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame member Tracey Brown, CCMA winner Johnny Reid, and singer/guitarist/song-writer Shaun Verreault. The highlights included a song written on board the train just that day which seemed to be called A Change is Coming which had Junction parents dancing with their children and children dancing with each other. Another was the guitar solo during Silent Night . . . and there’s a sentence you don’t get to write very often. Actually Silent Night had been nicely adapted to the 2008 Politically Correct Carol Book to Sabbath Night, which played quite well, and considering the aforementioned guitar solo was perhaps a more apt title than Silent Night.

Junction Historical Society train expert Raymond Kennedy (trainweb.org/oldtimetrains) had been scheduled to give a talk on the history of railways in the Junction of which he is an invaluable fount of lore. Unfortunately, his talk was only briefly mentioned from the train and Raymond wisely put the event off for some later date. It’s a shame as Raymond could have given the crowd something the other speakers could not: what the trains really meant to this historic community. We’re told that if enough excitement is generated the CPR will bring the train back next year. An old Junction rebel whispers in my ear: "how much excitement would it take for them to rebuild the railway station?" but the food bank is a right now need and the CPR is to be commended.

Happy Holidays from the West Toronto Junction Historical Society Centennial Committee.

2008 © Neil Ross

Neil Ross, writer/comedian/historian
West Toronto Junction Historical Society
Centennial Committee Chair

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Soviet Seasonal Classic and Masterpieces of Animated Shorts at Margret

Soviet Cult Films at Margret, Seasonal Classic and Masterpieces of Animated Shorts, by artjunction.blogspot.comPoster: The Arts Junction’s Soviet Cult Films Night at Margret: Neptune's Holiday
Credit: Margret Bar / Lounge for the Junction

What are you doing on the last Saturday night of the year?

The Arts Junction presents the Soviet Cult Films at Margret

The Fourth Movie Night with
the Soviet Seasonal Classic Movie:
[*] Neptune’s Holiday (1986)
and Masterpieces of Animated Shorts:
[*] There Once Was a Dog (1982)
[*] The Hedgehog in the Fog (1975)
[*] Tale of Tales (1979)

Saturday, December 27, 2008
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Margret Bar / Lounge for the Junction
2952 Dundas Street West at Pacific Avenue
Toronto, ON
M6P 1Y8
416-762-3373

*Admission: Free

Bring your friends and join us for a great evening of fun and masterpieces of animated shorts!

Soviet Cult Films at Margret
http://eventful.com/toronto/events/soviet-cult-films-margret-/E0-001-018357846-7

The fourth night with the best Soviet animated shorts The Hedgehog in the Fog, Tale of Tales, There Once Was a Dog and a short feature film Neptune's Holiday.

You are not in a Disneyland anymore. "Neptune's Holiday" is the last Soviet comedy.
Laugh when you say a goodbye to your past but nobody knows what expects you in the future.
Otherwise it would not be so funny.

Neptune's Holiday ( 1986)
Prazdnik Neptuna
Director: Yuri Mamin

Plot summary for Prazdnik Neptuna (1986) More at IMDbPro »

A group of Swedish tourists are on the way to a Russian village to witness the so called 'Festivity of Neptunus', in which the inhabitants take a dive in a hole in the ice. This tradition, however, does not exist at all. The inhabitants try to make a good impression by starting the 'tradition' to please the tourists. Written by C. van Lieshout {c.van.lieshout@tip.nl}
Credit: imdb.com

Директор Дома культуры запланировал на 1 января праздник Нептуна с участием 150 "моржей". Эта цифра настолько поразила областное начальство, что в село на праздник была направлена шведская делегация, которой надо было теперь показывать праздник во всей красе… Жители маленького городка решают устроить иностранным гостям праздник Нептуна... в самый разгар русской зимы.
Credit: ruskino.ru


Masterpieces of Animated Shorts

There Once Was a Dog (1982)
Zhil-byl pyos
Director: Eduard Nazarov

Based on a Ukrainian folk tale. In a small village, there once lived a dog. All his life he did his job honestly. But then he grew old. His nose couldn't smell as used to. His eyes were not sharp as before. And his legs felt like they didn't even belong to him. And ... what happened to him next.

Credit: youtube.com


The Hedgehog in the Fog (1975)
Yozhik v tumane
Director: Yuri Norstein

2003—Tokyo All time animation best 150 in Japan and Worldwide: Hedgehog in the Fog
"№1 Animated film of all the time"
Credit: bookrags.com


Tale of Tales (1979)
Skazka skazok
Director: Yuriy Norshteyn

Tale of Tales, like Tarkovsky's Mirror, attempts to structure itself like a human memory. Memories are not recalled in neat chronological order; instead, they are recalled by the association of one thing with another, which means that any attempt to put memory on film cannot be told like a conventional narrative.

Credit: wikipedia.org


The Arts Junction
http://www.artjunction.blogspot.com

** The AJ (artjunction) is an independent, local blog dedicated to arts and culture events in the Junction area of Toronto West, and Russian cultural events coming up in Toronto.
links:
eventful: Soviet Cult Movies at Margret
toronto.com: New in Bars: Margret
Story and photography by Stacey McLeod

Soviet Cult Films at Margret: Opening Night
Soviet Cult Films at Margret: The White Sun of the Desert
Soviet Cult Films at Margret: Ashik-Kerib

Soviet Cult Films at Margret: Seasonal Classic and Masterpieces of Animated Shorts

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Latitude 44 Gallery Highlights Paintings by Micheline Montgomery and Poetry by Hédi Bouraoui

Latitude 44 Gallery Paintings by Micheline Montgomery and Poetry by Hédi BouraouiPoster: Latitude 44 Presents Visages Du Dedans
Paintings by Micheline Montgomery and Poetry by Hédi Bouraoui

Latitude 44 Presents Visages Du Dedans


Paintings by Micheline Montgomery and Poetry by Hédi Bouraoui


December 16, 2008 to January 17, 2009


Vernissage / Opening Reception:
Thursday, December 18, 2008
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Latitude 44: Gallery ~ Framing ~ Decor
2900 Dundas Street West, Toronto ON M6P 1Y8 (just W of Keele, in the historic Junction)
Tues-Fri 10-7, Sat 10-5, Mon by appointment
T: 416 769 2900
Google™ Map
www.latitude44gallery.ca

VISAGES DU DEDANS. An intriguing collection of faces in mixed media by Micheline Montgomery.
This show is a collaboration between artist and poet revealing in the works exhibited, their artistic and spiritual quest.
Latitude 44 Gallery (T.O. Central: Junction)
Slate Art Guide Linting

"I paint everywhere. I cannot separate art from the rest of my life. I believe art can inspire and touch people if it comes from the heart and the soul. Faces and angels are recurrent themes in my art. The spiritual element expresses my endless quest for peace, harmony and integration. Art becomes for me a magical path expressing my perception and experience of life".
Micheline Montgomery

"La Paix, c’est la véritable rencontre de l’Autre dans sa Vérité, c’est l’acceptation totale de la différence."
Hédi Bouraoui, Vers et l’Envers

Friday, December 05, 2008

Contact Toronto Photography Festival 2009: Junction BIA Call for Submissions


CONTACT 2009 THEMATIC FOCUS: STILL REVOLUTION
Still Revolution will look back to the revolutionary foundations of photography while looking forward to the innovations that are stimulating a transformation of the role and function of the medium. Suspending moments in time that are always in flux, this theme will reflect a complex history marked by pervasive change. From reportage to abstraction, documented fact to constructed fiction, Still Revolution will explore photography through its many complex, ever-evolving manifestations.

JUNCTION BIA CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

For CONTACT 2009, The Junction BIA will be hosting over 20 juried exhibitions in select venues throughout the area from
May 1 – May 31, 2009.

Deadline for Submissions: Midnight December 15th, 2008
Artists will be notified of the results by January 7th, 2009

How to apply:

Please submit the following as digital files on a CD clearly labeled with your name, phone number and email address.

1. A maximum of ten digital images of works proposed for the exhibition. Digital images should be: RGB, jpeg format no larger than 1024 x 768 pixels at 300 dpi. They should be numbered 01 to 10 (01_tree, 02_house, 03_car etc.) Do not submit original artwork. CD must be readable on MAC OSX.
2. Image list indicating title, year, medium and dimensions. (Include this in digital form on CD)
3. A 75 word written description of your work. (Include this in digital form on CD)
4. A curriculum vitae, resume or biography. (Include this in digital form on CD)
5. A self-addressed envelope (SASE) with sufficient return postage. Without an SASE we will not return submission packages and will dispose of submission materials appropriately.

The Junction BIA will take reasonable care with submission materials; however, we cannot accept responsibility for damage or loss to submitted items.

Submit Applications to:

Anna Louise Richardson
The Junction BIA
3042 Dundas Street West
Toronto, ON M6P 1Z3
416-767-9068
annalouise@thejunctionbia.com

links:
flickr.com: Contact 2009 - Junction BIA Call for Submissions
contactphoto.com: REGISTRATION FOR CONTACT 2009
CONTACT Toronto Photography Festival in the Junction

Monday, December 01, 2008

Press Release: Santa in the Junction Event


Come to Celebrate This Holiday Season in the Junction

For Immediate Release


Toronto, ON, November 27, 2008 -

The Junction BIA invites you and your family to the
"Santa in the Junction Event"
at The Junction City Square (Dundas/Pacific)
on Saturday, December 13th from 2 - 5 pm.

The Junction has become one of West Toronto’s most child friendly neighbourhoods. This year at our "Santa in the Junction Event", we’ll have and abundance activities from dancing and sing-a-longs to crafts, free hot chocolate, and candy canes for kids young and old. Come celebrate this holiday season by helping us decorate our Christmas tree topped by a lighting ceremony! Internationally renowned storyteller Norman Perrin and the children’s dance performers will be joined by HO, HO, HO Santa Claus himself!

This community event is brought to you by the Junction Business Improvement Area (BIA). The Junction BIA consists of over 150 businesses serving The Junction and High Park communities. The unique shops offer many products and services for children including comic books, games, clothing, and awesome candy: everything your child needs to enjoy a full and active lifestyle.

With an impressive selection of ethnically diverse dining combined with early morning eateries, organic cafes and markets, the junction offers a variety of choices. With our thriving selection of home decor stores, you will find all your needs met from antiques, reclamation, and rebuilding right through to new furnishings, lighting, framing, and art. Everything you needs is at your doorstep in the Junction.

What’s going on at the “Santa in the Junction Event”, Saturday December 13

[v] Holiday stories
• Raven Steal’s the Light,
• The Goblins,
• Silent Light
[v] Children’s Christmas music and sing along
[v] Free hot chocolate, apple cider, candy canes, and cookies
[v] Community Christmas tree decorating
[v] Christmas tree lighting

–30–

For information, please contact:
Martin Scott
Forever Interiors
Designing New Stuff from Old Stuff
Furnishings, Decor, Antiques
2903 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON M6P 1Y8
Phone: 416-291-2001
Website: www.foreverinteriors.com

or

Junction BIA's office
3042 Dundas St. West, Toronto, Ontario M6P 1Z3
Phone: 416-767-9068
Website: www.thejunctionbia.com

CP Holiday Train Brings the Holiday Season Magic to the Junction

CP Holiday Train Junction December 2,2008Screenshot: Bill Saundercook City Councillor Ward 13:
CP Holiday Train coming to the Junction on December 2,2008

Credit: billsaundercook.ca

The CP holiday train brings the spirit of giving and its holiday season magic to the Centennial Junction.

The Junction Stop of the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train 2008

When: Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Time: 6:15pm to 7:15pm
Location: 87 Ethell Ave., adjacent to RONA

Details:
breakingprojects.com/junctioneer: CPR Canadian Holiday Train Visits Junction Tomorrow
thejunctionbia.com: Holiday Train
The 10th anniversary Holiday Train hits the rails on November 26th visiting over 100 communities in seven states and six provinces to raise food, money and awareness for local food banks. All donations collected in a community remain in that community for local distribution.

Each year, thousands of people gather along Canadian Pacific Railway's route to enjoy the arrival of the CP brightly decorated trains and watch entertainers perform a live holiday concert. This year we will experience it in the Junction for the very first time.

This year's entertainers and musicians include Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame member Tracey Brown, CCMA winner Johnny Reid, Shaun Verreault, singer/guitarist/song-writer for blues-rockers and Canadian live favourites Wide Mouth Mason, and Juno award-winning singer and songwriter Melanie Doane.

Music from Melanie and Shaun as well as other Holiday Train performers such as Johnny Reid, Tracey Brown and Lisa Brokop are featured on a special 10th anniversary CD/DVD. This commemorative compilation features the sights and sounds of the Holiday Train and is available for purchase at a Holiday Train events.
Credit: 2008 CP Holiday Train
Holiday Train blog
Holiday Train facebook
Holiday Train photo gallery

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Reminder: November Soviet Cult Films at Margret Tonight

Soviet Cult Films Margret Ashik-Kerib Poster, by artjunction.blogspot.comPoster: Soviet Cult Films at Margret Movie Night
Presented by Big Daddy's DVD Shop

Just a brief reminder that tonight at 6:00 pm in the Margret Bar/Lounge for the Junction, 2952 Dundas Street West we'll be holding our 3rd movie night with the Caucasus folk-tale Ashik-Kerib by Sergey Parajanov.
In 1988, in the memory of Andrey Tarkovsky, Parajanov created "Ashik Kerib" his masterpiece based on the work of the Russian poet Mikhail Lermontov. "Ashik Kerib" is a delightful movie and probably the best one to start with for new-comers to this director. The costumes and decorations are beautiful and the music is absolutely gorgeous (Parajanov hired an Azeri composer. The score is lifted to the realm of high art; the music almost makes this movie worth seeing just by itself).

Details:
Eventful.com: Toronto Events: Soviet Cult Films at Margret

links:
Soviet Cult Films at Margret: Opening Night
Soviet Cult Films at Margret: The White Sun of the Desert
Soviet Cult Films at Margret: Ashik-Kerib

Junction Parents: Junction art

Junction Art 2008 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

Junction Parents: Junction art

What a beautiful piece of prose and what a descriptive language of Irina's post exploring the world/word of art, a local art, the Junction art.
"... many Junction area businesses chose to display work by local artists, just take a walk and explore, with your kids!"

What a great way to get kids involved in art!!! Cara will be glad to read this post, and I only have to say "Please,bring us some more art."

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

The Junction Rocks @ the Toronto Web 2.0 Summit

Junction Residents Association and  Junctioneer at web 2.0 Toronto summit November 26, 2008, by artjunction.blogspot.comLouis Marrone, President of the Junction Residents Association and
Robert Hilts, Coordinator of the Junctioneer: the West Toronto Industry and community web 2.0 platform at the Toronto Web 2.0 Summit introducing the JRA Web 2.0 platform. The Arts Junction is interlinked with the Junctioneer's and the Junction Parents' platforms forming the high synergy between the three.

November 26, 2008 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

What a wonderful panel is going now at the City Hall. I am inviting you to join the summit webcast online: www.toronto.ca/web2summit to share your views, questions and experience on the topic of this rich, interactive, social media etc...

3:15 - 4:45

Citizens and communities of Toronto: Understanding what Toronto’s citizens and communities expect of their government, how Government 2.0 can enable them to provide their views to their government, and how the City can effectively access its citizens and communities

Chair: Gary Schlee, Former Faculty of Centennial College
Panel: Martin Cleaver, Wiki Consultant, Lifestyle Information Network
Saul Colt, Head of Magic , Freshbooks
Robert Hilts, Glass Artist, Junction Residents Association
Maura Lawless, Executive Director, 519 Community Centre
Louis Marrone, President, Junction Residents Association
Chris McCreary, Manager, Lifestyle Information Network
Margaret Szots, Chair, Toronto Professional Network
Geoff Whitlock, President, Lifecapture Interactive

Louis Marrone
Louis Marrone has been a Junction resident for five years. Interested in community organization and participation, he has sat on the Junction Forum for Art and Culture (JFAC), since 2007. JFAC is the organization created by the Junction Business Improvement Area (BIA), and is responsible for the annual Junction Arts Festival. His involvement in JFAC introduced him to many members of the BIA, the Councillor and active community members. He also chaired the BIA banner committee, responsible for designing and installing the utility pole banners on Dundas St. West.
When friend Robert Hilts created the Junctioneer eight months ago, Louis readily agreed to be a contributor, intrigued by the potential for the blog to be a vehicle for the community to define itself and keep informed about its neighbourhood. He has been the chair of the newly-formed Junction Residents Association (JRA) as of September, and since that time has been working with Robert to make the Junctioneer a vibrant platform for relating JRA information and encouraging community discussion, as well as making it the main resource for all West Toronto RAs and community groups.
Louis is employed as a Project Manager for BaAM Productions and holds an honours BA in Philosophy from the University of Guelph.

Robert Hilts
Robert is a full time professional glass artist, primarily working in cast glass and situational artworks. Growing up in the Junction, he developed an interest in the making of objects because of the Junction’s large industrial presence. The mixed industrial and residential character of the Junction has always defined the community for long-time residents, and for each wave of newcomers.
Robert created the Junctioneer blog with the aim of linking the residents of this community together. The intent is for it to thread together the wide variety of people living in the Junction by exploring the community from street level to the aspirations that so many residents have for the Junction. It provides viewpoints from several contributors, including Louis Marrone, Junction Residents Association chair.
Robert is also the chair of the Junction Communities in Bloom committee.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

The Art of High Tea in the Junction

Invitation: Local Option Art Awards Afternoon Tea in the Toronto Junction, by artjunction.blogspot.comInvitation: Local Option Art Awards Afternoon Tea in the Junction
Photo: Easter Walk in the Junction, 2008 © Emmanuel Mifsud

THE LOCAL OPTION ART AWARDS
AFTERNOON TEA in the Junction


When: Sunday, November 23rd, 2008
Time: 3 - 6 pm

Where:
Latitude 44 Gallery
Address:
2900 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario M6P 1Y8

You are cordially invited to attend
THE LOCAL OPTION ART AWARDS
AFTERNOON TEA
in the Junction.

Presented by: The Junction Historical Society
Sunday, November 23 rd , 3 - 6 pm
Latitude 44 Gallery, 2900 Dundas St. W. (at Mavety)
Toronto, Ontario M6P 1Y8

A celebration to present certificates of thanks to artists and
business owners who participated in the Local Option Art
Awards and Boom Times Cabaret, Heart of the Junction Talk
Show.

Souvenir Centennial Trains will be presented to Centennial
Train Race winners and Boom Times Cabaret sponsors.
Please come and celebrate this unique cultural experiment
in the Art of Democracy and Living History.

Tea, coffee and pastries from Pascal's Bagels and Baguette.

This event is an opportunity to discuss art and culture in the
Junction. Everyone welcome.

Sponsor of the Local Option Art Awards, Michael Reeves.

Invitation: Local Option Art Awards Afternoon Tea in the Toronto Junction, by artjunction.blogspot.comLocal Option Art Awards Afternoon Tea in the Junction
A Celebration of Art and Culture in the Junction
Presented by: The Junction Historical Society
Sunday, November 23 rd , 3 - 6 pm
Latitude 44 Gallery, 2900 Dundas St. W. (at Mavety)
The card was printed by West End Offset Plate Service

Friday, November 14, 2008

Art in the Junction: Dedication to the Art of Transformation

Art In The Junction 2008 by artjunction.blogspot.comArt in the Junction
2008 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

"Make Your Mark – Show us your inner artist and contribute to a series of large outdoor canvases."

Art in the Junction is dedicated to the Transformed Art Gallery of Ontario re-opening to the public. It's our virtual gift, a small token of appreciation that is a way to say "Happy Reopening, AGO!"

Art Gallery of Ontario: Re-Opens!
Frank Gehry architect:
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao at Bilbao, Spain
Art Gallery of Ontario at Toronto, Canada

Art Gallery of Ontario
Musée des beaux-arts de l’Ontario
317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 1G4
(416) 979-6648
Toll free 1-877-225-4246
Subway: Exit at St. Patrick Station on the University subway line. Walk one block west along Dundas Street.

AGO Public Opening
Friday November 14: 4:00pm - 12:00
Saturday November 15: 10:00am - 12:00
Sunday November 16: 10:00am - 5:30pm
Free Access to all Visitors!

We're unveiling our Art in the Junction digital canvas as a part of the Gallery's opening celebration. An audio describer -- or descriptionist -- is needed.
Celebrate the Transformed AGO re-opening with us.
See you there!

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

The Value of Public Space: Junction Residents Association Meeting November 6, 2008

The West Toronto Junction Community Residents Association Meeting November 2008 Poster, photo by artjunctionPublic squares public space and it’s value to the Junction; It's Your Junction
Junction Residents Association meeting poster
2008 @ artjunction.blogspot.com
Credit: junctioneer: Junction Residents Association Meeting Reminder and Agenda
Junction Residents Association Meeting:

Thursday, November 6th @ 7:00 pm


West Toronto Baptist Church
3049 Dundas Street West


+ daycare is available!!!

Get community stuff you want done!

'stay informed and have a say
in your parks, streets, safety

meet your neighbours

your voice for municipal,
provincial and federal
reps of gov'

It’s
Your
Junction

+ presentation "Public squares, public space and it’s value to the Junction" by Marek Rozkowski, High Park Architects

+ details of the agenda here.

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Tuesday, November 04, 2008

Words of Thanks for Making Local Option Art Awards Gala Fundraiser a Success

Thanks everyone for making 2008 Gala fundraiser a successWTJHS: Thank you to everyone who made our 2008 Gala fundraiser such a wonderful success!
The West Toronto Junction Historical Society would like to thank the artists, businesses and community for making our Gala fundraiser a success.

We reached our financial goals in the middle of the economic storm and it is good to note that according to the Toronto Star today the auction houses are setting records for sales of renowned artists.

Thank you so much for helping make the Junction Historical Society Gala such a hip and exciting event. It was wonderful when a voice from the audience asked our guest speaker, Don Thompson, for some good news about the art market and he pointed the walls around us and said this was where value was actually created. There are good artists in every community and there needs to be a spectrum for comparison and choice.

At the Gala I mentioned the influence of the Bloomsbury Group and their concern for social conscience. I did not realize that the economist Maynard Keynes was instrumental in the development of the group. Keynes economic plan was the foundation for financial success before Friedrich Hayek and Milton Friedman convinced people to allow the market free rein and led to this current financial and environmental meltdown.

Stephen Leacock, at the time arguably the most famous Canadian in the world, was about the only economist who said Free Trade would not lead to a balanced economy and was refused a doctorate in Economics and was given a degree in philosophy instead. It was his humourous works, including "The Arcadian Adventures of the Idle Rich" that helped him balance his own economic reality. I think in the last election Stephen Harper under estimated how many "ordinary Canadians" are artists. There are many spin off's from the Local Option Art Awards, it is evolving and has developed it's own momentum.

There will be one more event at Latitude 44 Gallery on Sunday, November 23rd, 3 - 6 pm for the artists and community to meet and discuss this Centennial project and to present the winners of the Junction Centennial Train races with their trains and the watercolour by Local Option Sponsor, Michael Reeves as well as certificates of appreciation to those involved in the project. It will be an opportunity to discuss the arts and culture in the Junction.

Lisa Rainford was right when she headlined her article about the Local Option Art Awards "The Function of the Junction is to Celebrate Art" and we continue to do so...

Many thanks again to all who have helped make this remarkable project real.

Cara Reeves, WTJHSCC
TheStar.com: NYC auctions setting records
Buyers undeterred by economic forecast, still paying millions for art
By Ula Ilnytzky
Published
Nov 04, 2008 04:30 AM
http://www.thestar.com/article/529912

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Folk Theatre Russian Style Celebrates 5th Anniversary

Poster Russian Style Folk Theatre Toronto Show October 30, 2008 York Wood LibraryPoster: Russian Style Folk Theatre
York Woods Library Theatre, October 30, 2008
"They are in my playlist."
artjunction.blogspot.com

Get Twisted, Wattle Fence

This year a well-known Russian folk theatre, Russian Style, celebrates its 5th birthday. Since year 2003 the folk ensemble has been promoting Russian folk music and songs in Canada. The Artistic Director of the theatre, Alla Geinish, works in collaboration with singers, dancers, and musicians focusing on the preservation and conservation of Russian cultural heritage. This season Russian Style presents its new jubilee program called Get Twisted, Wattle Fence (Zapletisya, pleten', Заплетися, плетень). The concert takes place on October 30th at 7:00 pm at the York Woods Library Theatre.

Get Twisted, Wattle Fence
Russian Style's new jubilee program
The program also features world famous balalaika virtuoso Nikolai Tichtchenko, popular jazz singer Aelita, award-winning pianist Nina Shapilsky, illusionist Vladimir Martin, children's dance theatre Fairyland, duet Black Coffee by Ildar and Irina Shigapov.

Thursday, October 30th
Time: 7:00 pm
York Woods Library Theatre
1785 Finch Ave. West, Toronto (between Jane St. & Keel St.)
Tickets: $15.00
You can get tickets in the Russian stores: Yummy Маrket, Knigomania, Erudite, Video Arena (Bathurst & Finch).

Phone: 416-423-5137; 905-669-3851

Focused on the Russian folklore, the ensemble’s repertoire includes authentic Russian limeriks,rites, elaborate lyrical suites, and fiery dance numbers. High professionalism of actors, bright and colourful national costumes with a combination of unique Russian folk percussion instruments such as the treshchodkes, wood spoons (lozhki), rubel, and tambourine, all together creates a magnificent show for audiences of all ages!

The Folk Theatre Russian Style has been a regular participant of various festivals, holidays, competitions and concerts in Toronto and across Ontario: CHIN Picnic, Canadian National Exhibition, CBC TV, Toronto Police events, “Christmas Around the World”, “Christmas Display” in Police Headquarters, Russian Festival Carousel, York University (Multicultural Week), Tuesday Night Live, etc.

In 2007 the theatre was invited to Moscow, Russia to participate in the International Festival of the Russian Compatriots from Abroad entitled "Russian Song" where it received a rank of the laureate.

Please come! You will not regret it!

Stores:
Yummy Market European Food
4400 Dufferin St., Unit B4
(416) 665-0040

Knigomania
4949 Bathurst St.
(416) 250-8242

Video Arena
309 Finch Ave. West
(416) 226-9151
(647) 430-5834
ФОЛЬКЛОРНЫЙ ТЕАТР “РУССКИЙ СТИЛЬ” ПРЕДСТАВЛЯЕТ РУССКУЮ НАРОДНУЮ МУЗЫКАЛЬНУЮ КУЛЬТУРУ

Место: York Woods Library Theatre, 1785 Finch Ave. W
День: 30 Октябрь 2008 года
Время: 7:00 pm

В основе деятельности театра - поддержание русских народных традиций и обрядов, русских национальных праздников и обычаев, сохранение культурной самобытности русских в Канаде.

Pепертуар коллектива достаточно разнообразен: это и народные песни в их оригинальном звучании и в современной обработке, песни русского казачества, старинные свадебные и обрядовые песни. Яркие и красочные народные костюмы, деревянные шумовые инструменты, профессионализм артистов создают великолепное праздничное шоу для всех!

Творческий коллектив театра разрабатывает и воплощает множество интересных и оригинальных проектов, является постоянным участником различных фестивалей, праздников, конкурсов и концертов в Торонто и Онтарио: CHIN Picnic, Canadian National Exhibition, CBC TV, Police Event, "Christmas Around the World", "Christmas Display" in Police Headquarters, Russian Festival "Carousel", York University (Multicultural Week), "TUESDAY NIGHT LIVE" и т.д.

В 2007 году театр был приглашен в Москву на Международный Фестиваль Российских Соотечественников Зарубежья "Русская Песня", где получил звание лауреата. Красочные и яркие выступления на сценах Дома Советов, Царицыно были с большой теплотой и любовью приняты российскими зрителями.

За пятилетнее существование группой театра были созданы и представлены в сценическом варианте народные праздники и гуляния "Масленица", "Рождество", Новогодние Представления для детей, "Вертеп" для детей русской православной церкви, pазвлекательная программа "Старый Новый Год" для взрослых, музыкальное шоу "Моcква-Одесса-Торонто", музыкальный спектакль "Я люблю тебя, Россия..."

Знают и любят коллектив ветераны Великой Отечественной Войны. В их честь "Русский Стиль" каждый год проводит праздничный концерт, посвященный Дню Победы.

Прихожане православной церкви в Березках всегда рады выступлениям театра в дни больших христианских престольных праздников.

Новая концертная программа "Заплетися, плетень" - это творческий отчет коллектива своему любимому зрителю по итогам пятилетней деятельности. В качестве подарков юбиляру со своими номерами выступят друзья "Русского Стиля": виртуоз – балалаечник Николай Тищенко, популярная джазовая певица Аэлита, лауреат международных конкурсов Нина Шапильская, иллюзионист Владимир Мартин, детский театр танца Fairyland Theatre, дуэт Черный Кофе Ильдар и Ирина Шигаповы.

Концерт состоится 30 октября в 7 часов вечера в York Woods Library Theatre, 1785 Finch Ave. West, Toronto (между Jane St. & Keel St.).
Цена билета $15.
Билеты можно приобрести в магазинах Yummy Маrket, Книгомания, Эрудит, Видео Aрена (Bathurst & Finch).

ПРИХОДИТЕ, НЕ ПОЖАЛЕЕТЕ!

Friday, October 24, 2008

Press-Release: Junction Historical Society Balances Art and Economy at Local Option Art Awards Gala

Toronto Junction Local Option Art Awards Gala Historical Society Fundraiser Cara Pascal October 23, 2008The Local Option Art Awards Gala in the Junction:
Cara Reeves, WTJHSCC and Pascal Abboud, Pascal's Baguette and Bagels
2008 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

For Immediate Release

JUNCTION HISTORICAL SOCIETY BALANCES ART AND ECONOMY AT LOCAL OPTION ART AWARDS GALA

Toronto, ON, October 24, 2008 - Best selling author Don Thompson (The 12 Million Dollar Stuffed Shark: The Curious Economics of Contemporary Art -- currently on the best seller lists in Toronto, London and New York) joined local artists, businesspeople and residents at Latitude 44 Gallery (2900 Dundas St. W.) on Thursday October 23, 2008.

The community ensured the success of the Junction Historical Society’s silent auction and Awards ceremony. Despite turmoil in the global financial and art markets, the event proved that investing in local art can create a stable financial base by setting realistic goals.

The Local Option Art Awards, a Junction Centennial initiative sponsored by Mariposa County artist Michael Reeves, is a unique experiment that has benefited the whole community.

Between the Junction Centennial weekend in April and the Arts Festival in September, 20 businesses have hosted 27 artists. The first, second and third prize winners were chosen by public vote. The results: a tie for first place between Emmanuel Mifsud and Peter LUI Gang; Brian Anderson was chosen as runner up; and Olga Sadowy was awarded the third prize.

Martin Scott of 'Forever Interiors' initiated and facilitated a limited edition of 70 Junction Centennial Trains on behalf of the Historical Society involving young local artists in the project. About 25% of the artists who participated sold their works; some artists received commissioned work due to the exposure; some will be continuing the relationships they have built with the businesses. Four of the businesses would like Latitude 44 Gallery to continue to use their spaces to sell more works by local artists.

The "Best Art and Business Matches" from the project will remain on display at Latitude 44 Gallery until the end of the month.

–30–

For information, please contact:
Janet DiBernardo
Latitude 44 Gallery
2900 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON M6P 1Y8
Phone: 416-769-2900
Website: www.latitude44gallery.ca

links:
artjunction: Invest in Art and Do It Tonight in the Junction
artjunction: Junction Local Option Art Awards Guided Walking Tour Photos
Press-Release: Best Selling Author Don Thompson to Speak at Local Option Gala Celebrating Art and History in Toronto Junction
Press-Release: Local Option Art in the Junction: The Local Option Art Awards Gala
The Local Option Art Awards Gala / WTJHS Fundraiser. Be there and you’re history!
by Neil Ross, writer/comedian/historian
Invitation to the Gala: Celebration of the Toronto Junction Local Option Art Awards
by Cara Reeves, WTJHSCC
artjunction: Invitation to the Local Option Art Awards in the Junction


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Thursday, October 23, 2008

Press-Release: Pumpkin Fest & Kids Cartoons: Halloween in the Junction

Pumpkinfest & Kids Cartoons: Halloween in the Junction
Credit: The Junction BIA and Rue Morgue
For immediate release

The Junction Pumpkin Fest And Halloween Cartoon Screening
Fall Fun In The Junction


Toronto, ON, October 15, 2008: The Junction BIA and Rue Morgue invites you and your family to The Junction Pumpkin Fest & Halloween Cartoon Screening held at the Junction City Square on Saturday October 25.

The Junction BIA (Business Improvement Area) in collaboration with Rue Morgue is pleased to present The Junction Pumpkin Fest and Halloween Cartoon Screening on Saturday October 25 from 10 am until 3 pm at The Junction City Square (2956-2960 Dundas Street West) and The Rue Morgue House of Horror (2926 Dundas Street West). These two events are designed to be fun for the entire family, including pumpkin drawing and carving, seed roasting and scary cartoons.

Beginning at 10 am in the Junction City Square, children of all ages are welcome to design or carve Jack-o-lanterns. The youngest children can do designs with the help of their parents or guardians, and older children can design and carve with the assistance of our volunteers. All participants can enter their finished product in one of three age based contests and win a prize for their scary creations. The Pumpkin Fest portion of the day will run, rain or shine, until 2 pm. The pumpkins are free, but first come first served, so get there early for first pick.

To keep the kids of all ages entertained after designing or carving their pumpkin, the Rue Morgue House of Horror will be hosting Halloween cartoons in their 100-seat theatre just down the street from the square. The spooky ‘toons run from 1-3 pm. Rue Morgue is North America’s premier publisher and promoter of everything scary including a monthly magazine, radio channel and a complete interactive website of scary stuff at rue-morgue.com.

This community event is brought to you by the Junction BIA. The Junction BIA consists of over 150 businesses serving The Junction and High Park communities. With an impressive selection of ethnically diverse dining combined with early morning eateries, organic cafes and markets, the junction offers a verity of choices. With our thriving selection of home decor stores, you will find all your needs met from antiques, reclamation, and rebuilding right through to new furnishings, lighting, framing, and art. Everything you needs is at your doorstep in the Junction. Visit the Junction BIA online at thejunctionbia.com.

Schedule of Events
  • Saturday October 25, 10am to 2pm – Pumpkin design and carving in the Junction City Square.
  • Saturday October 25, 1pm to 3pm – Halloween cartoons in Rue Morgue’s theatre.
  • Sunday October 26 – Friday October 31 – Jack-o-lanterns displayed in local shops.

This family fun activities are brought to life:
Pumpkin Fest via Junction BIA
Halloween Cartoons via the Rue Morgue
Dancing via Creative Children Dance School
Food via Espresso Mi Vida
possibly Pumpkin BBQ via Sweet Potato
and Pumpkins' Jack-o-lanterns in the windows of many of the Junction stores from Sunday to Friday.

links:
junctioneer: Junction BIA puts on Halloween in the Junction
junction-parents: Saturday, Oct.25th


Please, spread the word around. Thank you.

Invest in Art and Do It Tonight in the Junction

Screenshot: TheStar.com: Focusing on art as investments
By Naomi Carniol, Special to the Star, October 23, 2008
Credit: TheStar.com

It takes the right frame of mind, and a little luck, to turn that piece of art you purchased into an asset that will contribute to your financial future
Naomi Carniol
TheStar.com - Investing - Focusing on art as investments
http://www.thestar.com/printArticle/521067

And you can start to do it right now. Please come to the Local Option Art Awards which will hold its first annual gala tonight at Latitude 44 Gallery (2900 Dundas Street West).

Artists, historians, patrons of art and lovers of history will come together to celebrate the Spirit of the Junction. As the evening unfolds, speakers tell the wondrous tales of art as a vital link in Junction history and the historic marriage between art and business in the community.

Items of historical and artistic value will be on display to be purchased at silent auction, an array of treasures from gold and silver leaf to vintage brass fire extinguishers manufactured in the Junction will be auctioned off. Vintage photographs from the Junction’s past have been exquisitely framed and will be offered as mementos of the railway town that became a city.

Come and meet Don Thompson, author of "The $12 Million Stuffed Shark, The Curious Economics of Contemporary Art" (published by Doubleday Canada). His book is currently on the best seller list in Toronto, New York and London. Drawing on exclusive interviews with both past and present executives of auction houses and art dealerships, artists, and the buyers who move the market, Thompson launches the reader on a surprising journey of discovery.

The gala will raise funds for the West Toronto Junction Historical Society, a vital force in the Junction, working to preserve the history and heritage of this unique neighbourhood.

See you there.

link:
canadianart.ca: Don Thompson: Stuffed Sharks, Empty Wallets and the Art Market to Come
With sales chilling at the Frieze Art Fair last week, there's no
better time to chat about the art market's future. In this
interview, economist Don Thompson, author of The $12 Million
Stuffed Shark: The Curious Economics of Contemporary Art, shares
his predictions. Read more...

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Junction Local Option Art Awards Guided Walking Tour Photos

Photos: Toronto Junction Local Option Art Awards Tour 2008, by artjunction.blogspot.comPhotos: Toronto Junction Local Option Art Awards Guided Walking Tour, August 9, 2008
2008 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

The Junction Local Option Art Awards Guided Walking Tour photo set is online now.
Have a virtual tour, add your comments, and don't forget to come tomorrow to Latitude 44 Gallery for a Gala Celebration for the Local Option Art Awards.

See you there.

links:
The AJO: Toronto Art Junction Option + Guided Walking Tours
artjunction: Invitation to the Local Option Art Awards in the Junction

Monday, October 20, 2008

Cinematic Milestones at the Cinemateque Ontario this Fall


Cinematheque Ontario's new Fall season has started on October 17, 2008. A very interesting program of films. Check the calendar.

Cinemateque Ontario: Fall Season:

October 17 - December 14, 2008

WAR AND PEACE
(VOYNA I MIR)
Director: Sergei Bondarchuk
Year: 1965-1967
Runtime: 415 minutes
Country: USSR
Cast: Sergei Bondarchuk, Lyudmila Savelyeva
Screening Times:
October 17, 2008 7:00 PM
October 18, 2008 7:00 PM
October 19, 2008 1:00 PM
October 20, 2008 7:00 PM
Screens at Jackman Hall
Images Courtesy of the Film Reference Library

DOCTOR ZHIVAGO
Director: David Lean
Year: 1965
Runtime: 193 minutes
Country: USA/UK
Cast: Julie Christie, Omar Sharif, Geraldine Chaplin
Screening Times:
October 24, 2008 7:00 PM
Screens at Jackman Hall
Images Courtesy of the Film Reference Library

ALEKSANDRA
Director: Alexander Sokurov
Year: 2007
Runtime: 92 minutes
Country: Russia
Cast: Galina Vishnevskaya, Vasily Shevtsov
Screening Times:
October 25, 2008 7:00 PM
October 26, 2008 5:30 PM
Screens at Jackman Hall
Images Courtesy of the Film Reference Library

ELEGIA ZHIZNI: ROSTROPOVICH VISHNEVSKAYA
Director: Alexander Sokurov
Year: 2006
Runtime: 101 minutes
Country: Russia
Cast: Mstislav Rostropovich, Alexander Sokurov
Screening Times:
October 26, 2008 3:30 PM
Screens at Jackman Hall
Images Courtesy of the Film Reference Library

100 YEARS OF JAPANESE CINEMA
Director: Nagisa Oshima
Year: 1995
Runtime: 52 minutes
Country: UK
Screening Times:
December 9, 2008 7:00 PM
followed by KYOTO, MY MOTHER’S PLACE
Screens at Jackman Hall
Images Courtesy of the Film Reference Library
If Godard’s history of French cinema for the British Film Institute’s “Century of Cinema” series was predictably polemical, Oshima’s goes it one better by producing a history of Japanese film that is outright perverse in its seeming disdain for many of its giants. (Critics have speculated as to why Mizoguchi, Ozu, and Kurosawa are slighted, given one clip each while Oshima accords his own films four!) Oshima begins with the silent period, and shuttles through the family dramas of the Thirties, the rise of militarism and the effect of WWII on the film industry, the postwar golden age, the arrival of the Japanese New Wave, and the subsequent emergence of independent directors from Terayama and Kitano to Yoshimitsu Morita and Yoichi Sai. Oshima ends with the wish that Japanese cinema “free itself from the spell of Japan and blossom as pure cinema.” Fascinating in the context of this retrospective, Oshima’s history of his country’s cinema has a muted string quartet score by Toru Takemitsu.
Please note: Narration is in English.

Cinemateque Ontario: Fall Season: October 17 - December 14, 2008

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Press-Release: Best Selling Author Don Thompson to Speak at Local Option Gala Celebrating Art and History in Toronto Junction

West Toronto Junction Local Option Art Awards Gala 2008 InvitationThe Toronto Junction Local Option Gala,
(Thursday, October 23, 7-10 pm,
at Latitude 44 Gallery, 2900 Dundas Street West, Toronto)
celebrates the best in art in support of the Junction Historical Society.
Bring your loonies and toonies for the Centennial Train Races.

For Immediate Release

Best Selling Author Don Thompson to Speak at Local Option Gala Celebrating Art and History in Toronto Junction

Toronto, ON, October 19, 2008The West Toronto Junction Historical Society is hosting The Local Option Art Awards Gala and Silent Auction on Thursday Oct 23rd, 7 -10pm at Latitude 44 Gallery 2900 Dundas St, W. Toronto as part of our Centennial year celebrations. This event commemorates the dynamic relationship between the Arts and Business unique to the Junction established 100 years ago and successfully revived over the last few years putting the Junction back on the map as "as an up and coming funky arts community".

Our guest speaker is Don Thompson author of "The $12 Million Stuffed Shark, The Curious Economics of Contemporary Art" (published by Doubleday Canada). His book is currently on the best seller list in Toronto, New York and London. Drawing on exclusive interviews with both past and present executives of auction houses and art dealerships, artists, and the buyers who move the market, Thompson launches the reader on a surprising journey of discovery.

Local Option Art Awards sponsor, artist Michael Reeves, is very familiar with the market Thompson describes and has postulated a unique alternative based on the principles of The Bloomsbury Group recognized the role artists play in fostering culture through community participation.

The Junction Centennial Train Races inspired by Martin Scott of “Forever Interiors” has involved young artist using pieces of our past to create our future. Between April and September 20 businesses have hosted 27 artists of all ages and the winners have been chosen by public vote. The prizes to be presented at the Awards Gala include a sculpture called "The Spirit of the Junction" by local artist Reid English which will be given to a member of the public who participated in this experiment in the Art of Democracy.

There are many interesting and unique items dating from 1900 to the present up for auction including 13 framed reproduction photos from the Junction archives. Please come out and support this vital and vibrant organization to ensure it is part of Junction history for the next 100 years.

Contact: Janet DiBernardo
Phone: 416-769-2900
Web site: www.wtjhs.ca
links:
Press-Release: Local Option Art in the Junction: The Local Option Art Awards Gala
The Local Option Art Awards Gala / WTJHS Fundraiser. Be there and you’re history!
by Neil Ross, writer/comedian/historian
Invitation to the Gala: Celebration of the Toronto Junction Local Option Art Awards
by Cara Reeves, WTJHSCC
artjunction:
Invitation to the Local Option Art Awards in the Junction

West Toronto Junction Local Option Art Awards Gala 2008 poster, by artjunction.blogspot.com