Persephone's Eden Book Launch: May 16 at Latitude 44 Gallery

Poster: Michael Reeves 2019 Retrospective Show Opening and Book Launch
May 16th 2019 at Latitude 44 Gallery Framing Décor
Credit: michaelreeves.ca: Persephone’s Eden Book Launch – May 16th 2019
facebook.com/events: Michael Reeves 2019 Retrospective & Book Launch

Michael Reeves 2019 Retrospective
Show Opening and Book Launch

When: Thursday, May 16, 2019
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Venue: Latitude 44 Gallery Framing Décor
Location: 2900 Dundas St. W, Toronto ON M6P 1Y8

Details

As part of the 2019 Retrospective, we are pleased to announce the launch of our new book "Persephone's Eden: A Celebration of the Life and Works of Michael Reeves”. The book is a visual delight showcasing many of Michel's well-known works as well as previously unseen early paintings. The book is punctuated by a series of essays contributed by Michael's family, friends, colleagues, collectors and critics, detailing his life from his early days and studies as a student at the Bath Academy of Art, through his career as an antiques dealer in London and Toronto, to his transition into full time painting and the eventual restoration of his Port Perry studio and property following his death.
Michael Reeves is arguably one of the last Neo-Romantic painters of his generation. His peers and mentors have been Directors and Trustees of the Tate and National Galleries in England. In 2005, Joan Murray considered his works a "triumph of individualism". The book title, "Persephone's Eden" is named after the land where he and his wife Norma found their place in paradise on Lake Scugog in 1984, the works Michael produced there are the product of his dream come true.
Through this book, we hope to create a deep understanding and appreciation for Michael and his extraordinary works and to shed light onto his contribution to the world of international and Canadian art.
Along with a selection of paintings from his most prolific phase during the late 1980's to early 2000's in Port Perry, the Retrospective in 2019 is the first time any of Michael's 1950's works have ever been shown.

The book launch will be held at the Latitude 44 Gallery in Toronto on May 16th from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm. We look forward to seeing you there!

Latitude 44 Gallery
2900 Dundas St W,
M6P 1Y8, Toronto
www.latitude44gallery.ca
www.michaelreeves.ca

Show Dates: May 1st - October 1st, 2019

More info:

facebook.com/events: Persephone's Eden Book Launch
Public · Hosted by Michael Reeves and Latitude 44 Gallery Framing Décor

Caption: Persephone's Eden Book Launch May 16, 2019

Credit: michaelreeves.ca

Kara Bogaz Gol in the Distillery District until October 1

Photo Collage: Guy Laliberté's GAIA Exhibit in Distillery
2012 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

GAIA
The Earth Like You've Never Seen it Before
A series of 60 large scale photographs taken from space
A creative project by Guy Laliberté

Presented by: Thompson Landry Gallery
at The Distillery Historic District in Toronto
August 2 - October 1, 2012

The GAIA exhibit showcases incredible photographs of the Earth taken from a distance of more than 350 kilometres by Guy Laliberté during his 11-day orbit, revealing unique views of some 40 countries.

Costs: Free

Once in a while you can find living proof that your wildest dreams have come true, that happened to me whilst visiting the GAIA exhibit by Guy Laliberté, the creator of Cirque du Soleil, hosted by the Thompson Landry Gallery in the Distillery District.

Guy became the space clown with his camera, cherishing the earth, whilst being the first Canadian space tourist.

To my greatest joy, the first illustration in the body of his book GAIA begins with Kara Bogaz Gol, the marvellous story of the rejuvenation of the “mighty straight lake" and the spectacular, sparking emerald heart chakra green, glistening next to the throat chakra blue of the Caspian Sea.

The image of the Caspian Sea is identical to the ground of the Water Goddess painting by Toronto artist Darinka Blagaj years ago, she phoned from in front of the Kara Bogaz Gol panel and read the text into my voice-mail. I could not believe my ears, but apparently I can, I have checked with my own eyes and you can touch the huge photos on metal panels in the courtyard, an experience of walking round the world not to be missed, truly out of this world and so absolutely and beautifully true.

You can travel the world in miniature and macrocosm at the same time. So wild, such a gift. I wonder if Guy watched the movie all astronauts watch before going into space, the movie was made at Kara Bogaz Gol, and is called "The White Sun of the Desert". I found the magical child holding that Sun, in the palm of a funny man's hand more than a year ago.

So yes, I really do feel on top of the world, thanks to all of you for making my life so wonderful and this all real!!!!! Yeah. Fairy tales come true "when you're young at heart."

Life is the story, I'm so happy with mine, thanks so much for being a part of it, and big hugs all round ... the GAIA show runs until September 3, 2012 October 1, 2012.

Cara Reeves
aka Kara Bogaz-Gol
Writer, Freelance Textile Conservator
Cara’s new novel Rococo Brocade is basically an eighteen century farce
with a creative philosophy of social justice.
@karabogazgol

A Wonderful Day at The Junction Farm Fest

Photo-Collage: Junction's 1st Annual Farm Fest
Where city meets farm July 23, 11-5
2011 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

Helping with urban bees at the train platform in the at Dundas W. and Pacific tomorrow 2-5 pm, Junction Farm Fest. I will have Rococo Brocades
@karabogazgol

I had such a wonderful day at The Junction Farm Fest, helping with the Toronto Bee Co-Op at the train platform with a wonderful gentleman called Oliver. My favorite honey was the blueberry / raspberry blossom and the buckwheat honey was delicious as well.

It was a happy day offering people samples of raw honey, raspberry honey, cinnamon honey, wildflower honey and Royal Jelly as well as hand creams, candles and bee venom cream for arthritis. Hearing about the sacred bee and being asked if I will help out with the booth at The Whole Life Expo on November 26th.

I did a quick tour of the Mavety Street section and saw Janis taking rustic Kaleidoscope photos with chickens and bales of straw and great hats to choose from. I saw sheep and goats as well as chickens and bees.

Ice cream at the platform was heaven, a wonderful lady appeared with a spoonful for me to try. I can truly say I had the time of my life today. It really was fun and the music was fabulous. The whole thing was so well organized and I love my little piece of wood name tag and the ornate beeswax egg candle I treated myself to as a souvenir of the day, to bring me fond memories in the future.

Cara Reeves
@karabogazgol

links:
junctionfarmfest.wordpress.com: Thank You!!!
"We would like to thank all our amazing volunteers, sponsors, community supporters and participants for making Junction Farm Fest a HUGE SUCCESS!

Feel free to view our Photo Gallery."
Posted by Junction Farm Fest

twitter’s link to the article: http://t.co/ltmsbc7

Rococo Brocade Book Launch & Fundraising at Latitude 44 Gallery

Invitation: Rococo Brocade Book Launch & Fundraising
September 23, 2010 at Latitude 44 Gallery Framing Décor
Photo: Olga Goubar

You are cordially invited to the book launch of "Rococo Brocade", a new novel written by Kara Bogaz-Gol and a fundraising event for the Junction Historical Society.

When: Thursday, September 23rd, 7 - 11 pm

Where: Latitude 44 Gallery Framing Décor
Location: 2900 Dundas St. W, Toronto ON M6P 1Y8

"Rococo Brocade" is basically an eighteenth century farce with a creative philosophy of social justice.
Proceeds from wine sales and the auction of 3 framed pieces of original 18th C. silk brocade, along with copies of the book, will go to the Junction Historical Society.

R.S.V.P. to either...
Latitude 44 Gallery
416•769•2900
latitude44gallery@bellnet.ca

Cara Reeves
905•967•2920
kbogazgol@gmail.com

Please come if you can,
This is going to be fun !!
Best wishes,
Cara

links:
latitude44gallery.ca: For Evite to Rococo Brocade in PDF format please click here

Twitter realtime results for "Rococo Brocade"

First Edition of "Rococo Brocade" arrived yesterday, 5 boxes of heaven on earth. Launch: Latitude 44 Gallery,Thurs Sept 23rd, 7-11pm. R.S.V.P
@karabogazgol

Rococo Brocade Book Launch & Fundraising at Latitude 44 Gallery: Invitation: Rococo Brocade Book Launch & Fundrais... http://bit.ly/donXlL
@High Park Web

eventful.com: Send the link to a friend

All Welcome at Humberside HOOPLA on Thursday, June 3, 6-9 pm

Poster: Boom Times Spring Fling at Humberside HOOPLA on Thursday June 3, 6-9 pm
Poster Art by Rhonda Nolan Design
Credit: JunctionRA.ca Culture Committee
Click on the image to listen on YouTube The Junction Suite, Main Theme, Music by Isaias Garcia - Film Composer
The Junction Suite Compositions: Original Music for the upcoming theatre production. Composed by Isaias Garcia.
Each of the compositions represent a variety of cultures and nations.
URL: http://www.youtube.com/user/canargentinemusic#grid/user/DF853D3C8996A911
Credit: canargentinemusic

Welcome to and Experience!

Boom Times Spring Fling
at the first annual Humberside HOOPLA
Local artists / mentors working with Humberside C. I. students
to co-create new Visual Art & Theatre

Thursday, June 3, 2010
Time: 6 - 9 pm

Location:
Humberside Collegiate Institute
280 Quebec Avenue, Toronto, ON
(Just north of High Park)
Admission is $2

SPRING FLING 2010

The West Toronto Junction Historical Society and the Junction Residents Association are sponsors of the Boom Times Spring Fling, a community driven art project. Humberside Collegiate students, mentored by local artists in traditional and non-traditional media, create original art and theatre that will be showcased at Humberside HOOPLA on Thursday June 3, 6-9 pm.
A Silent Auction will be held in support of the Local Option Art Project.

Come and experience the world debut of Junction History Mash-up featuring stand up/sketch comedy, archival photographs, comic book art, and original orchestral music by young composer Isaias Garcia, with direction by Neil Ross.
They will be appearing at historic Lismer Hall, HCI HOOPLA at 8 pm.

Artist/mentors Christopher Sears, Rhonda Nolan, Carol Barrett and Cathy Thorne have been working with students to create original cedar sculpture, textile sculpture, altered book and comic zines for the Local Option Art Exhibit.

The art will be on display at the HOOPLA and at Wise Daughters Craft Market during the month of June, starting Saturday June 5 at 2 pm. A Roving Exhibit will be in the Junction throughout the summer at patron businesses.

Poster: All welcome at Humberside HOOPLA on Thursday June 3, 6-9 pm
Credit: Humberside Collegiate Alumni Association

Spring Fling originated at the 2009 Amalgamation Celebration at Humberside C. I., a collaboration between Boom Times Cabaret, The WTJHS, the JRA, students, historians, artists, businesses and community groups.

Photo: The Junction Amalgamation Celebration, May 1, 2009
2009 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

Please read more about it in Cara Reeves's article:
The Junction Amalgamation Celebration, May 1, 2009: a Brilliant Folk Art Rendering of Democracy in the Junction.

An Exploration of Contemporary Art Scene in Toronto: Reflections on Life and Art

Photo: Explore the Art of the City:
Junction Centennial Contemporary Art Tour with Jen Morin
2009 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

The Junction Historical Society would like to thank Jen Morin, a local resident and cultural facilitator for offering to lead a tour of the Contemporary Arts in our vicinity as part of the Amalgamation Centennial events to raise funds for the Junction Historical Society on Saturday, May 16th 2009.

With a weather forecast of rain, thunder, lightening and hailstones 12 brave souls and our intrepid leader met at 401 Richmond St at 11 am. We carried out umbrellas as talisman against the rain and they worked miraculously. We swirled through a light shower as we entered the Power Plant and whilst we were there the skies opened and we watched the storm through the huge plate glass windows over looking the lake: the clipper ship bobbing in the harbour and the raindrops trickling down the glass. We came out into sunshine and wove through the first of 3 weddings that appeared along the tour. The second was posed just inside the gates as we arrived at The Distillery District and as we headed to the Corkin Gallery, two tiny children were jumping in a large puddle with great glee and delight. As we reached Union station and were saying our goodbyes a third wedding fluttered by on their way to having photos taken at the station. A comedy is famous for having lots of weddings and this was fun…

We visited 10 Galleries in all at 401 Richmond. We visited Open Studio. Gallery 44 Centre for Contemporary Photography -- where an installation of feathers photographically reproduced on silk organza, cut out, and pinned to the wall so they fluttered just like real ones, by artist Sally Ayre was a favorite of the tour. A Space Gallery, Red Head Gallery, YYZ Gallery and Wynick/Tuck Gallery. Seeing work by Mary Pratt and a bronze telephone by Michael Snow. Echoes of fresh ideas lingering as we broke for lunch and sprinkled ourselves through local restaurants enjoying a multitude of culinary cultures. At Mamas Pizza a lunch discussion of John Ralston Sauls' latest book "A Fair Country" brought The Children of Peace to the table; the legacy of fairness and equality they shared with the First Nations tradition and their commitment to celebrating art and culture.

At The Power Plant the vacuousness of the corporate lie was turned inside out by artist Carey Young with the trained voices of our own High Park Toastmasters, who meet in the room opposite the Historical Society downstairs at the Annette St Library on the first Thursday of the month. There we were. Our own trained speakers, part of an international exhibit. What more can I say, isn't that what art is supposed to make of life: a mirror and we found ourselves in the picture front and centre in the middle of the tour.

In the Distillery District we saw the exploration of the relationship between a lady and a gentleman, a couple, who were both artists giving a more contemporary multi-dimensional perception of Adam and Eve at Artcore, I believe it was and I'm sorry I didn't catch their names but the metaphor came through loud and clear echoing eternity with a much broader and equal vision. Ronnie Woods of the New Faces had a painting of Rod Stewart and the other guys for sale at the Blue Dot, which set of a whole raft of storytelling and anecdotes about what our lives were like when that music was released, lots of laughing …

Then we had tea and ice cream and gave Jen a birthday card and chocolates along with our deepest thanks. Despite the forecast, the weather was perfect and we parted in the sunshine with hugs and smiles all round. It was a great day to remember and financially beneficial to the WTJHS. The Golden Mean: the rule of thirds that artists and architects copy from nature applied perfectly. $300 less $100 expenses (TTC passes and Power Plant admission). When Jen first proposed this idea as a silent auction item for The Local Option Art Awards Gala she valued it at $200.

Thanks again Jen and we hope the rest of your birthday was as wonderful as the part you shared with us.

2009 © Cara Reeves

Photo Collage: Explore the Art of the City:
Junction Centennial Contemporary Art Tour with Jen Morin
2009 @ artjunction.blogspot.com
Curator Jennifer Morin leads a tour on a journey of artistic exploration through some of Toronto's most innovative and influential galleries in a guided tour: 401 Richmond, Power Plant, The Distillery District

links:
gg.ca: Media: His Excellency John Ralston Saul: Speech at the Temple of the Children Of Peace
September 15, 2005
Vanitas: Nicholas and Sheila Pye’s first solo exhibition at Artcore
Explore Canada’s Contemporary Art Scene in Toronto: Special Guided Walking Tour with Jen Morin
The Arts Junction: Junction Historical Society Balances Art and Economy at Local Option Art Awards Gala

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The Junction Amalgamation Celebration, May 1, 2009: a Brilliant Folk Art Rendering of Democracy in the Junction

Photo: The Junction Amalgamation Celebration, May 1, 2009
2009 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

On May 1, 2009, we created a brilliant folk art rendering of Democracy in the Junction in our celebration of the centennial of West Toronto joining the City of Toronto in 1909. At that moment in time, Lismer Hall at Humberside Collegiate was, indeed, the centre of the universe.

With the wisdom, leadership and artistic talent all rolled up in good humour and time- honoured tradition, complete with bells and singing, flags bunting and balloons, ribbons and flowers under the great mural in Lismer hall, I think a fair argument could be made for the beauty of the concept. Sam Martin did us proud with the Junction Bell song and Junction Bound. The toasts for the Future from characters from our Past were marvelous, and Madeleine MacDowell's tribute to the library, literacy and culture did us all proud.

Neil Ross as the mastermind behind and ring master for this carnival celebration incorporated all the elements from the exact same event at Humberside 100 years ago and recreating them for posterity. The polish of the characters of the Legends of the Junction played by members of the Junction Historical Society for two years now is a brilliant legacy to have created. We told our history well and have it recorded for posterity thanks to Cris Senjug and Olga Goubar.

Doris Moxam was a wonderful community liaison, and by aligning the Homecoming as part of the Amalgamation celebration, made the event viable and contributed enormously to its success. Vandra and Volker Masemann were wonderful logistical co-ordinators, and Vandra's assistance with the Boom Times Cabaret was invaluable. Kristen Buckley as Chair oversaw and implemented the event with grace, extraordinary efficiency and boundless energy, with David Wencer taking up the tech and a myriad other tasks in great enthusiastic strides. Pat Trusty also helped to make the slide show into a visually and historically effective backdrop to the Cabaret. The Junction BIA and community members and Humberside staff and students who helped to create this event have made a wonderful contribution to culture in the Junction.

The central event was the Key Ceremony. The Spirit of the Junction dressed in roses and asparagus fern by Martins the Flower People handed the key to the Mayor of the town of West Toronto (played by WTJHS president Gib Goodfellow) to the Mayor of the City of West Toronto (played by Councillor Bill Saundercook), to the current Mayor of Toronto (local resident, David Miller) to the member of Provincial Parliament (Cheri DiNovo) and then to the Spirit of Toronto, also dressed by Martins Flowers in roses and palm fronds. She scampered off to take the key back to Post and Beam at Dundas and Keele-- which is now full of wonderful architectural inheritance, and is the historic site of the meeting of art and culture in the Junction 100 years ago. We proved that we held true to our cultural roots in this place and we know where to find the key for the foreseeable future.

Through the auspices of Latitude 44 Gallery, award-winning local artist Reid English created a community sculpture during the 2009 Arts Festival as part of the 2008 Centennial Celebrations. Members of the community contributed bits and bobs, odds and ends of interest to add to the sculpture which represents the Spirit of the Junction. A large sculpture was part of the original amalgamation celebrations 100 years ago: it was unveiled at midnight.

When the veil came off the new Spirit of the Junction statue on May 1st this year, the force of the swirling of the cloth turned its head to the side, and the bicycle fender and the profile of his face looked like a depiction of an Egyptian, Greek or Roman God. It was a great spring tribute to bring to the student body. The statue was presented to Humberside by Reid English and Janet DiBernardo of Latitude 44 Gallery to commemorate the centennial and inspire budding artists in the community..... During the evening of the Amalgamation celebration, Reid and Latitude 44 facilitated a second, smaller sculpture to be created in the same way during the evening. That sculpture has been donated to the Historical Society and will be on display at the Annette St Library in the near future.

It was a wonderful evening with lovely memories of everyone helping out and enjoying themselves. Bea Mozdzanowski magically appeared with a perfect door stop to allow me to free myself from holding the front door open to allow fresh air into the crowded foyer and Janet DiBernardo headed home with a wonderful smile and great bunches of balloons for her neighbour's children. The next day Vandra and Volker’s grandsons were also recipients of bunches of balloons to their great delight. The older, age 4, seeing the Canadian flag in the bunch, had the family all stand up whilst he sang “O Canada" eight or nine times.

The Junction Historical Society continues its Amalgamation celebrations with 'The Junction Centennial Contemporary Art Tour' on May 16th 2009. We will tour the Galleries at 401 Richmond St, The Power Plant and the Distillery District. The tour will be led by Jen Morin, a junction resident who is currently interning at the Canadian Museum of Contemporary Art. The tickets are $25 - including 2 TTC rides and admission to the Powerplant. We meet at 401 Richmond St. at 11 am and finish in the Distillery District at about 5:30pm. There are about 10 tickets left:available through wtjhs.ca or at Latitude 44 Gallery 2900 Dundas St. W., ph. 416-769-2900.
Become part of history by supporting this fundraiser for the Junction Historical Society and create new memories for the future.

2009 © Cara Reeves

Photo-collage: The Junction Amalgamation Celebration, May 1, 2009

2009 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

The Art of Economics: John Maynard Keynes And The Bloomsburies

Collage: Art in the Junction in a digital frame of the Arts Theatre Logo
Credit: rosreferat.ru

Spring is coming, the tide is turning, and the Junction has already crested the wave softly, gently, slowly leading by example.

Tough times are not a new experience for most artists and when a society experiences this as a whole it is very often the creativity and innovation of the artists that lead the way to a new phase of development and prosperity. It is the provenance to time and place that secures long term value and what began as the Local Option Art Awards in the Junction has evolved more forms of cultural expression.

Due to the tremendous success of the Local Option as an experiment in the Art of Democracy last year the WTJHS will be helping to facilitate a "Stroller Tour" of the Junction, promoting local artists from one end of the Junction to the other throughout the summer. With the climate both environmentally and economically making it much more appealing to do something healthy, educational and local we can capitalize on the Junction's well earned reputation as an arts community and promote this local phenomenon as a great way to spend the day in the Junction.

Arguably the most influential economist of the first half of the 20th C was the titan, John Maynard Keynes. In January I walked into Pandemonium looking for "The Ghost in the Machine" by Arthur Koestler and came out with a biography of Keynes by Robert Skidelsky. Koestler would have been proud of me.

It was Keynes who was responsible for the post WWII boom that established the infrastructures and educated middle class that elevated millions from poverty until Margret Thatcher and Ronald Regan became enamoured with Milton Friedman and Frederick Hayek’s laissez - faire free market economy; anything goes, the markets will balance themselves-- that has plunged us into this economic winter of doom. However I'm delighted to find great sections of Keynes economic policies are being reimplemented to our south and at home as the thaw allows the shovels to restore the infrastructures. The Keynesian experiment has become the precedent for a successful boom that lasted 40 years and had his theory been continued would have avoided this crisis altogether.

So, where is the art in all this you ask? Well, John Maynard Keynes was the financier responsible for an artistic phenomenon known as the Bloomsbury Group that was strongly influenced by the Impressionist movement. The Bloomsburies had a radical approach to the role of art in social structure with a strong commitment to local culture. Keynes concept of full employment included artists as leaders and innovators. By supporting local artists a ferment is created and if the buzz resonates strongly enough precipitates unique artists who gain high profile recognition and elevate others and the environment that produced them. Unlike the handpicked, golden handcuffed protégée of Sachi and 'branded' markets that benefit the few to the detriment of many, Keynes artistic model provides a broader and more enduring prosperity for the benefit of the community at large.

The Local Option Art Awards was based on these fundamental principles. It was a overwhelming success and the Local Option Gala in October at Latitude 44 Gallery is considered the most fun and exciting event of 2008 in Junction. The guest speaker Don Thompson, whose book The $12 Million Stuffed Shark: The Curious Economics of Contemporary Art said the walls around us are where the true value of art is to be found. If we recognize, appreciate and support it.

May 1st will be a unique opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary and dynamic culture of the Junction at Humberside Collegiate Institute between 6 and 11 pm as we celebrate the Amalgamation Centennial, 100 Years since the Junction saved Toronto from bankruptcy by agreeing to a union of two equal and independent cities. We are commemorating the Centennial with a re-enactment of the celebrations that launched the Junction into it's most dynamic and prosperous phase with intelligence born of strong community spirit for the benefit all all.

Admission is free and EVERYONE is welcome. For more info see the artjunction's Amalgamation Centennial page or contact the Junction Historical Society at wtjhs.ca.

2009 © Cara Reeves

Junction Literary Pub Crawl with Glen Downie: Notes & Impressions

Photo: Junction Literary Pub Crawl with Junction poet Glen Downie
Saturday April 18, 2009

Celebrating the History of Literacy in the Junction for the Centennial of the Annette Street Library

Nature provided the perfect spring Saturday afternoon. As I walked down Medland towards the library I saw the first of those to come out onto the front steps, chief among them tour Leader A.B. Rice, resplendent in blue silk brocade vest and frock coat. As I got closer more and more people were spilling out onto the side walk. We had expected about 20 people but found we had 90 all told. Frank Remiz retrieved the JBIA bullhorn stowed in the archives in case our wildest dreams came true and we had over 30 on the tour. Frank served tech duties admirably throughout the afternoon and we were greatly appreciated of his assistance.

Photo: Junction Literary Pub Crawl with Glen Downie

We met the owner of Minerva Reid's house and Gib Goodfellow, our illustrious President of the WTJHS was able to point out the murmur ear on the utility pole so the gentleman could phone and hear the history of his home any time he liked. In the parking lot next to the Police station we heard of the defiance of Junction resident Anna Leung who helped break down racial segregation barriers by screaming in the front row of the Palladium Theatre, Toronto, until she was allowed to retain her seat. The audience supported her and she won her place in the front row of Junction History 100 years later.

Gwendolyn MacEwen the quintessential mystic poet of the early 1960's won world renown and first read at the Bohemian Embassy..... which conjours images of Yorkville scene that was London's Carnaby Street or New York’s Soho. Gwendolyn born, at Keele and Bloor, spent most of her early life in the Junction, in fact she was Gib Goodfellow's dance partner in Grade school. It was he who conjured Gwen's spirit by suggesting Kristen Buckley for the role.

Neil Ross gave a tour de force performance as A.B. Rice... standing on the replica platform reading a poem by Raymond Souster about the details of the removal of the original CPR Station that happened like a slight of hand in the middle of night kind of thing. Poets reporting the news as has been handed down like Norse sagas of the medieval troubadours.

At the Troubadour Glen Downie read a poem about his experience trying to get cast as himself in the Toronto One Book celebrations... it was hilarious and we're so glad sense prevailed and Glen got to be himself..... for it was definitely a wonderful highlight of the tour to be present as presented his work. Local poets read lively poems about nature, the universe, the Junction and the human condition.... and the tour ended with a piano bar rendition (accompanied by Alice Derdon) of the early 20th Classic that many are still aware of, floating on the boundaries of their psyche along with Sam McGee... Dangerous Dan McGrew by Robert Service.

The old and the new co-mingled in the vibrant atmosphere of storied reflections of the landscape appearing eternal ....which is the hope and dream of every poet.... that their voices would echo in the landscape forever. So far, so good. Thanks again to Neil Ross and David Wencer for assembling the history and all those who helped make this event possible. A special mention to Pam Mountain of the Annette Street Library who was beaming like sunshine the whole afternoon at the incredible success of this wonderful venture. It was really fun to see so many happy people.

2009 © Cara Reeves

Photo: Junction Literary Pub Crawl with Glen Downie

links:
junctioneer: West Toronto Junction Literary Walking Tour and Pub Crawl Recap
cbc.ca/ideas: Robert Weaver: Godfather of Canadian Literature
thescream.ca: Book-length Dinner Reading: Gwendolyn MacEwen’s A Breakfast for Barbarians
artjunction: Happy Birthday Toronto from the Junction
artjunction: Annette Street Public Library Upcoming Spring Highlights
keeptorontoreading.ca: Meet One Book author Glen Downie

Soviet Cult Films at Margret: The Quality of Esoteric Culture Lifting the Junction to New Heights

Poster: Soviet Cult Films at Margret:
The Quality of Esoteric Culture Lifting the Junction to New Heights
2009 @ artjunction.blogspot.com

Some elements of the cultural mosaic have a unifying effect that comes with the articulate expression of a unique perspective. Such a paradox and a wonderful joy to share. It is refreshing and invigorating as the discussions precipitated afterwards flow out in all directions -- pivoting through time and space -- connecting the most wonderful ideas and information, leaving you feeling expanded, satisfied, reassured, encouraged and optimistic.

Canada and Russia have so much in common, considered vast and cold but teaming with life and variety: challenge and adventure, subtlety and complexity. A conceptual wilderness so light and varied as to offer the space and opportunity to explore and create unique, articulate expressions of individuality, freedom and friendship. The often harsh conditions building determination and honing visions. Fun and excitement invariably bubbling through one way or another. I'm so looking forward to the next series. Many thanks to the Arts Junction, Big Daddy's and Margret for creating this cultural gem for us in the Junction.

2009 © Cara Reeves

The Arts Junction presents
Soviet Cult Films at Margret 2008/09 Season
Opening Night: Kin-dza-dza!
The White Sun of the Desert
Ashik-Kerib
Seasonal Classic and Masterpieces of Animated Shorts
Ivan's Childhood
Dersu Uzala by Akira Kurosawa
Lent by Big Daddy's DVD Shop
Venue: Margret Bar / Lounge for the Junction
2952 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON

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

WTJHS: 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

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

The 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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