I've been thinking a lot lately about how things take root—not plants this time, but how ideas slowly become reality.

When I first imagined The Artists' House, I wasn't picturing large crowds or grand events. I imagined people discovering something new together, neighbours becoming friends, and new guests leaving feeling inspired.

What brings me the greatest joy is watching someone become excited, curious, or quietly transformed by an experience. Seeing people laugh together, try something new, share a story, or simply enjoy being creative in a beautiful setting reminds me why I began this journey in the first place.

Community isn't something we build overnight.

It grows one gathering at a time.

This past Saturday was a wonderful reminder of that. Raven Murphy hosted a Nature's Pharmacy workshop on the patio beneath the trees. It wasn't a large event, but it didn't need to be. There was laughter, conversation, creativity, and that wonderful feeling that comes from making something with your hands alongside other people.

As we blended our own scents, each person was encouraged to pause and listen—to consider what their body needed that day. It was a gentle reminder that creativity often begins by simply paying attention. For more of what Raven offers visit www.ravenspeaks.ca

In the Studio

This month I've been spending time developing my Harriet Butterly collection—a series of memory pictures inspired by the ordinary objects, places and moments that become part of our lives.

Rather than telling one specific story, each piece gathers together familiar details—a well-worn instrument, a favourite cup, a song, a memorable concert, or time shared with someone special. My hope is that somewhere within those images you'll discover a memory of your own.

I've become fascinated by how something as simple as a lunch box, a pair of rubber boots, or an old kitchen table can transport us back to another time and place. The Harriet Butterly collection is my way of celebrating those small moments that often become some of life's most cherished memories. These images will be available soon as cards, prints, journals and some cool gift items.

Poetry Night Friday July 17th, 7-9pm

Who helped shape the person you are today?

As I've been spending time around Imaginarium's summer art camp, I've found myself thinking about the remarkable people who quietly (or not so quietly) shape our lives.

Watching Ayrlie MacEachern and her Imaginarium team in action has been so inspiring. She has created such a magical, respectful program, bursting with creativity, kindness and joy. It's impossible to spend time here without reflecting on the lasting impact that great teachers and mentors can have.

I was one of those children who absolutely loved school. In fact, I hated missing a day and proudly won the attendance award at Toronto Island Public School more than once. (I still have those little certificates tucked away somewhere!)

What I remember most, though, isn't perfect attendance.

It's the teachers.

There were a few who made me feel seen. They encouraged my creativity, laughed at my sense of humour, and somehow convinced me that I had something worthwhile to contribute. Looking back, I realize they were quietly helping shape the person I would become.

Mind you... I also earned a regular seat beside the teacher's desk because I was such a chatterbox. Apparently I was easily distracted—and perhaps a little distracting to everyone else! Some things may not have changed all that much.

As adults, we sometimes forget how profoundly another person can influence our lives. A teacher. A neighbour. A grandparent. A coach. A friend. Someone who believed in us, challenged us, or simply helped us see ourselves a little differently.

It made me wonder...

Who helped shape the person you are today?

That's our writing prompt for this month's Poetry Night. A little late I know, but you writers have things tucked away to share I am sure!

Join us on Friday, July 17, from 7–9 pm at The Artists' House. Bring something you've written, a favourite poem to share, or simply come to listen. If the weather cooperates, we'll finish the evening around the campfire.

My journals will be available at the Thursday Collingwood Market tomorrow from 3-7pm, Poetry Night or on Amazon.

Each journal is inspired by the paintings in my Water Series collection and includes reflection prompts designed to encourage creativity, mindfulness and personal exploration. Thursday Collingwood Market New Life Church 28 Tracey Lane.

Welcoming Renee

One of the unexpected joys of building The Artists' House has been watching neighbours become collaborators.

This summer, my neighbour Renee Christensen joined the wonderful Imaginarium team, teaching at the children's art camp for the very first time. Watching her with the children has been such a pleasure. She brings a gentle curiosity, a love of nature, and a quiet enthusiasm that encourages young artists to explore and experiment.

Renee is a multidisciplinary Canadian artist whose work is inspired by the landscapes of South Georgian Bay. Working primarily in charcoal and oil, she explores themes of transformation, ecology, and our relationship with the natural world. This fall she'll complete her Master of Science in Education and is looking forward to combining her own art practice with teaching visual arts.

I love seeing talented people in our own community sharing what they know. That's exactly the kind of creative spirit I hoped would grow here.

If you'd like to see more of Renee's beautiful work, visit www.reneejensenstudio.ca.

Share What You Love

Do you have something you'd love to teach?

One of my long-term hopes for The Artists' House has always been to create a place where people share their knowledge and passions with one another.

Whether your expertise is painting, writing, fibre arts, photography, gardening, wellness—or something completely unexpected—I would love to hear your ideas.

Great workshops often begin with a conversation.

If you've been thinking about teaching something, let's connect.

Every month The Artists' House feels a little more like the place I imagined.

Not because it's busy all the time.

But because another neighbour says yes.
Another teacher joins us.
Another group gathers around a table.
Another conversation begins.

That's how community grows.

One gathering at a time.

I'd love to see you at one of them.

Warmly,

Lory