'A feast for the eyes and soul'
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Published on
December 21st, 2009
- Published on
July 8th, 2010
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Staff ~ Northern Pen
Dear Editor,
Last week I had the opportunity to travel to the Great Northern Peninsula. During my time in St. Anthony I had an opportunity to see a treasure trove of art and crafts conserved through the Sir Wilfred Grenfell Historical Society. The culture that is represented through these artifacts is very unique to the province and to our heritage. The history of the people along this coast overflows throughout St. Anthony's Museum.
But this incredible visual journey doesn't stop there! It is also celebrated with textured ceramic carvings on the walls of the Hospital's Rotunda, and if one has the opportunity to visit Doctor Grenfell's family home they would be overwhelmed with examples of a lifestyle long passed but remembered. On a hillside sitting among the trees and overlooking the community was a significant collection of sculptures, paintings, photography and fiber art. These works of art convey the happenings that everyday people experienced. To remember the details and to create these works took skill and imagination. I was in St. Anthony with a unique agenda. I am an art educator and came to discuss and present information about art, artists and how we each might be affected by the images we see. I travelled with my 'kit' of visuals and a box full of notes and handouts. In retrospect, I need not have burdened myself with such a large package. Recognizing or acknowledging the art which surrounds us is very important. Finding meaning in art is a personal journey for the viewer, as well as the artist. With it's variety of artworks and archives, St. Anthony provided me with a feast for the eyes and soul. How could I not be drawn into the magic that is apart of your community and its people! I would like to thank the two ladies, Agnes and Sharon, who so kindly and graciously guided me through this experience. Their knowledge and passion for the folklore and history of the Great Northern Peninsula and Labrador was amazing.
- Topics :
- Dear Editor , Sir Wilfred Grenfell Historical Society , St. Anthony
Letter to the Editor -
Dear Editor,
Last week I had the opportunity to travel to the Great Northern Peninsula. During my time in St. Anthony I had an opportunity to see a treasure trove of art and crafts conserved through the Sir Wilfred Grenfell Historical Society. The culture that is represented through these artifacts is very unique to the province and to our heritage. The history of the people along this coast overflows throughout St. Anthony's Museum.
But this incredible visual journey doesn't stop there! It is also celebrated with textured ceramic carvings on the walls of the Hospital's Rotunda, and if one has the opportunity to visit Doctor Grenfell's family home they would be overwhelmed with examples of a lifestyle long passed but remembered. On a hillside sitting among the trees and overlooking the community was a significant collection of sculptures, paintings, photography and fiber art. These works of art convey the happenings that everyday people experienced. To remember the details and to create these works took skill and imagination. I was in St. Anthony with a unique agenda. I am an art educator and came to discuss and present information about art, artists and how we each might be affected by the images we see. I travelled with my 'kit' of visuals and a box full of notes and handouts. In retrospect, I need not have burdened myself with such a large package. Recognizing or acknowledging the art which surrounds us is very important. Finding meaning in art is a personal journey for the viewer, as well as the artist. With it's variety of artworks and archives, St. Anthony provided me with a feast for the eyes and soul. How could I not be drawn into the magic that is apart of your community and its people! I would like to thank the two ladies, Agnes and Sharon, who so kindly and graciously guided me through this experience. Their knowledge and passion for the folklore and history of the Great Northern Peninsula and Labrador was amazing.
Merry Christmas everyone,
Eileen Murphy
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