Ruralist »

Masthead header
05-10-2013

{See} 33 Paintings on Hwy. 33

Painting a Tribute to Prince Edward County

On May 25, 2013, fine art painter Milé Murtanovski will be hitting the road – specifically Prince Edward County’s Highway 33, also known as Loyalist Parkway. Beginning in Carrying Place near Trenton and heading east along Highway 33, he’ll make 33 stops, creating one 20” x 20” oil painting on site each day. His painting marathon will conclude June 26 at the Glenora ferry dock.

Primarily a studio-based painter who works from his own photographic reference, Murtanovski will step outside his comfort zone and paint en plein air every day for just over a month. He chose Highway 33 as it stretches from one end of the County to the other and has a great variety of scenery to depict, including picturesque rural landscapes, sites of historical significance, and the charming architecture of the County’s most prominent towns.

This painting marathon will culminate in an exhibition at Blizzmax Gallery, opening on June 29 at 7pm and running until July 21. Throughout this painting marathon there will be regular updates on Facebook, Twitter (@smallpondarts) and Milé’s artwork blog.

Milé has been painting for 25 years and works mainly in watercolours, oils, or inks. In 2010 he left Toronto, relocating to a 160-year old farmhouse in Prince Edward County, Ontario, where he founded Small Pond Arts with his wife, playwright and puppeteer Krista Dalby. Small Pond Arts is an artist residency centre and art gallery, and host to numerous creative community events throughout the year.

–Erin
    add a comment
    permalink

    Dayna McIsaac - What a great idea!
    18993
    A great house to paint:D

    05-08-2013

    {Get} Great Gifts for Mom

    20130507-214959.jpg

    20130507-215010.jpg

    20130507-215025.jpg

     

    Moms love anything and everything when it comes to Mother’s Day. Breakfast in bed, a handmade card or a hug can be the sweetest gift. However, if you’re looking to take it up a notch rural Ontario has some pretty fantastic offerings that I bet mom would enjoy (at least I know I would). We’ve curated some of our favourite things that are not just great for mom, but for a special women any time of year.

    Funky - Bamboo Skate Shades are perfect for your one-of-a-kind mom. Second Shot, based in Orangeville, combines the strength of bamboo with the artistic styling of 100% recycled skateboards creating a unique piece of wearable art. Every pair is handcrafted in Canada, making no two the exact same.

    Vintage - If your mom loves plants these vintage plant pots are sure to put a smile on her face! The best thing about vintage is that each piece has it’s own special story. Revival Store in Bancroft is a treasure trove of great finds.

    Cozy – A pair of Collegien slippers will warm your mom’s heart as well as her toes. They are as soft as a sock, as comfortable as a slipper, they hug the foot and are machine washable. These slippers are available from Hive of Bayfield and come in many different bright colors and designs.

    Sparkly – For the mom who is worth her weight in gold,a handmade resin ring filled with gold leaf. These rings from Rosella Resin in Seaforth come in an incredible array of sizes shapes and colors. Choose her favourite color and you are sure to wow her with these lightweight and durable rings.

    Pretty – This lovely dahlia in a ‘tea cup’ from Huron Ridge Acres in Zurich would look lovely on your mom’s patio table! The dahlia will keep blooming all summer as each flower is loaded with buds, just water and enjoy.

    Relaxing – Give mom the gift of a weekend away. From May 31st to June 2, The village of Bayfield on Lake Huron is hosting a Girls Getaway Weekend with your choice of three different packages. Her all-inclusive weekend experience will include many extras such as a kick-off cocktail party and complimentary goodie bag.

    Handy – If she’s travelling this summer why not get mom a gorgeous new weekend bag. Made by Jenna Rose in the Lanark Highlands, each piece of cloth is hand screen printed using non-toxic water based pigments on mostly organic materials. The colours are all mixed and printed in small runs and each design is initially illustrated by hand.

    Nifty – Show mom some love this Mother’s Day with a limited edition upcycled key tag from All Deck’d Out in Brantford. This heart keychain is made from 100% recycled skateboard. The back side is a natural ply and the front side is all graphic with signs of it’s previous life. You can have it laser engraved with a special message for a more personal touch .

    Sweet - Your mom is one lucky lady! This tiny necklace from Artisan Tree in Trenton are a lovely way to say Happy Mother’s Day. The delicate golden horseshoe strung on a red silk cord is timeless and sure to bring luck when given on such an auspicious day.

    No matter how you choose to celebrate Mother’s Day this year your thoughtfulness will be appreciated. Don’t forget this Sunday, May 12 to remember your mom and take a moment to show her how much she means to you.

    –Erin
      add a comment
      permalink

      Revival Store - Thank you for featuring our McCoy vintage flower pots in this lovely gift guide.
      We always look forward to your suggestion about shopping in rural in gorgeous Rural Ontario.
      Happy Mother’s day/week :)

      Moxie and Suzy

      Jenna Rose - Thanks so much for including my weekend bag!

      Sarah Koopmans - You’re welcome, Jenna! Your work is beautiful!

      05-06-2013

      {Get} Eco-Friendly Fashion by Melanie Ferrara

      MelanieFerrara, Florence top White
      Melanie Ferrara, Florence top multiMelanie Ferrara, Benson SkirtMelanie Ferrara, Sybil ShellMelanie Ferrara, Hanna Dress

      I stumbled upon Melanie Ferrara and her Device line when I was initially researching this idea last month. I was very impressed by her portfolio and her polished and professional website, and it is a pleasure to feature this young Ontario designer on Ruralist.

      Melanie describes her line as made up of “vintage inspired classics.” She incorporates eco-friendly fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp, and modal into her versatile and timeless pieces. Recently she was named one of Canada’s top 15 eco designers.

      The Device line is currently sold on Etsy.com. If you like the selections shown here, be sure to visit the Etsy site to see the other colours and styles available.

      –Sarah

      About the Clothes:

      1. Florence Top in white – A simple spring blouse with a touch of sophistication, this blouse is a wardrobe essential- one of those pieces which can single-handedly multiply your outfit possibilities with its versatility.  Proudly made in Toronto, Canada.  Available in sizes XS-XXL.
      Price: $74

      2. Florence tops, any two – A simple spring blouse with a touch of sophistication, available in many colors and fabrics with two sleeve style choices.  Individually priced at $72 and $74, you can save up to $24 when purchasing two at once.  This blouse is a wardrobe essential- one of those pieces which can single-handedly multiply your outfit possibilities with its versatility. Available in short petal sleeves or elbow-length sleeves. Proudly made in Toronto, Canada.  Available in sizes XS-XXL.
      Price: $122

      3. Benson Skirt – High-waisted skirt with wide, belted waistband and figure-flattering a-line silhouette. Pleated pockets with tab and button detail add a retro-modern flair. This piece is stylish and unique while still being appropriate for the office. It’s also lined, which means it can be easily paired with tights or stockings in the fall and winter.  Proudly made in Toronto, Canada.  Available in sizes 2-12.
      Price: $178

      4. Sybil Shell – Eco-friendly, eye-catching printed sleeveless blouse in silky micro-chiffon. The print is a photographic manipulation of feathers and cherry blossom branches on a soft yellow background, with vibrant accents of pink and orange hues. Proudly made in Toronto, Canada.  Available in size 6/M.
      Price: $89

      5. Hanna Dress – Sustainable and summery in white or black.  Lace adds romance to this cap sleeve dress with contoured stylelines and blouson waist.  Triangular lace insets at side hem.  Proudly made in Toronto, Canada. Available in size S.
        add a comment
        permalink
        05-06-2013

        {Get} Turquoise and Emerald Clothing and Accessories From Elle North

        Elle North spring collection - turquoise and emerald

        Who knew turquoise and emerald were “in” colours this spring? The owner of Elle North, that’s who. Lauren Northgraves’ love of fashion trends and discovering and sharing great products led to the birth of this fun and funky online store that features jewellery, scarves, giftware, candles (made by her parents’ company, Country Home Candle), and more.

        Lauren put together this colourful collection for this, Elle North’s second appearance on Ruralist. This time, the store has greatly expanded its inventory, covering everything from wine paraphernalia to handy jewellery and scarf hangers to necklaces and bracelets in many different styles.

        One of the great things about Elle North is its online nature – you can buy anything on the site, any time of day! And, orders over $60 within Canada get shipped for free!

        –Sarah

        About the collection:

        1. Hint of Mint Earrings – $15.00

        2. Turquoise Floral Patch Scarf – $20.00

        3. Studded Leather Bracelet in Turquoise – $20.00

        4. Emerald Braid Necklace – $30.00. Hand-beaded in India.

        5. Colourblock Top in Turquoise – $45.00. Made in Canada.

        6. Candy Waterfall Necklace – $25.00

        7. Turquoise Stone Bracelet – $15.00

        8. Ombre Blue Chiffon Tunic – $45.00

        9. Steel Magnolia Bracelet in Turquoise – $24.00. Fair Trade Jewelry.

        10. Versa Wrap Turquoise – $25.00. Wear it in 6 different ways. Fair Trade Clothing.

         

         
          add a comment
          permalink
          05-06-2013

          {Get} Vintage Spring Fashion for Mom and Baby From Fresh Pickings on Andrew

          Fresh Pickings on Andrew, pink vintage spring fashion
          Fresh Pickings on Andrew, white vintage spring fashionFresh Pickings on Andrew, black vintage spring fashionFresh Pickings on Andrew, yellow vintage spring fashion

          I’ve said this before and I will likely say it again: Meg Theo has an eye for style. You’ve seen it before here on Ruralist, when she did a special fall style photo shoot for our readers, and then again when she recommended dwell Decor and Design, which I featured this past Friday.

          Meg is the proprietor of Fresh Pickings on Andrew, a very unique business in Exeter Ontario that connects shoppers with one-of-a-kind items. Meg uses her style savvy to pick items she knows her customers will enjoy, and then groups the items into styled arrangements. She then photographs them and posts the photos to the Fresh Pickings Facebook page, where customers can notify her of their interest via comments, then pick up the items on Meg’s front porch.

          Since she primarily deals in decor and other household items, I thought it might be a long shot to get Meg to do a fashion shoot, but, knowing her skill, I asked her anyway and she eagerly accepted. She has put together these four lovely collections exclusively for Ruralist readers.

          To purchase these items, comment on this post indicating your interest, and Meg will be in touch with you regarding pick-up.

          –Sarah

          About the collection:

          pretty in {pink}……
          vintage Vera Neumann Scarf $12, short vintage “cherry” beaded necklace
          $6, 1960′s handmade Jacket and matching Bonnet (6-12m) $12, petite
          baby Shoes $12.

          fresh {white}….
          vintage Italian chocolate brown polka dot Scarf $5, creamy white Purse
          (suitable for a Bride to be!) $12, small chocker style glass Beaded
          Necklace $6,1960′s sheer Dress (with slip, great condition, approx
          3-9m) $14.

          {classy} mama!
          vintage Vera Neumann Scarf $12, black patent Clutch (without strap)
          $9, small gold coloured Brooch $4, 1960′s Toddler Shoes $12, vintage
          glass bead Necklace $16.

          you are my {sunshine}….
          1960′s homemade Baby Dress (approx 6-9m) $8, 1960′s Toddler Shoes
          (made in Canada!) $8, gold coloured Bracelet $6, vintage Vera Neumann
          Scarf $12
            add a comment
            permalink

            Sofie - Hi Meaghan!
            Great piece! Very original!
            Would love to get one of the Vera scarfs. Is the “Classy Mama brownish – black striped one still available? If so, I’d love to get it!!!
            Keep up the great work! :)

            script type="text/javascript"> var _gaq = _gaq || []; _gaq.push(['_setAccount', 'UA-28863628-1']); _gaq.push(['_trackPageview']); (function() { var ga = document.createElement('script'); ga.type = 'text/javascript'; ga.async = true; ga.src = ('https:' == document.location.protocol ? 'https://ssl' : 'http://www') + '.google-analytics.com/ga.js'; var s = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(ga, s); })();