Message from the Artistic Director
Rhonda Bobinski

When I was approached by Michele Alderton to be the Artistic Director for the Outdoor Art Gallery Program again this year, I was more than pleased to take on the responsibility.  I feel fortunate to live in a community that is so rich in artistry, and will take any opportunity to absorb myself in the creativity of others.  The artistic community is strong and thriving, as can be seen when you walk down our streets.  Colourful banners line the sidewalks, welcoming people from near and far to share in our culture, heritage, and connections to the past and present.  

This year, the theme was based on “The Pioneer” and as usual, I tried to push the envelope so that the assignment didn’t turn solely into a portraiture project.  I wanted to expand on the concept of the pioneer so that it included the concepts of innovation, exploration, growth, establishment, invention, and so forth.  This community was not built when the first rock pick struck gold. This community was already bustling and thriving centuries before gold was found and I wanted to ensure that the Anishenabek were not ignored in the name of innovation.  As we all now know, we have a lot to learn about innovation from the Anishenabek.  

Again, studio time became an opportunity for all of us to pass the winter months with friends and good conversation.  Everything from religion, culture, politics, local gossip and even romance were discussed throughout those cold, dark nights!  We always felt a sense of loss when a banner was completely painted, and I found that many artists would find some reason to come back and maybe “just touch up some areas of the banner just a little bit”.  The strong camaraderie that is developed extends beyond the studio and is the reason why the artist community is bustling.

Thank you for taking the time to read the artist profiles included in this binder.  The artists appreciate the time that is taken to focus on their personal concept of the pioneer and their connection to innovation.  As you will quickly see, they are not just pretty pictures that are painted for the benefit of community beautification. The ideas go much deeper to tap into the heritage, culture and root of what it is to be a part of this district.

Thank you,
Miikwech,

Rhonda Bobinski