Art In My Garden 2024
Art In My Garden 2024! I'm located here, at 176 Front Street alongside fellow artist Sue Hoeltken. We will be sharing the from garden and private driveway of this stunning Heritage home.
If you visit Oakville on a regular basis you might know it's been completely rebuilt, maintaining the original facade and almost all of it's original features. The window panes looks like they are the original glass - which is a feat. The stonework at the front has been salvaged and restored and the exterior finish almost looks like an original lime and sand plaster. (I’m a Geologist at heart, remember! New homes with ‘concrete’ facades of fake stone aren’t really my bag)
I watched this house be re-built over 2 years and was mesmerised by the process that was careful and thoughtful. It was at a slow pace, that made me think they were doing it right - respectfully and to the letter. My Father-In-Law was a master bricklayer, and specialist in overseeing the renovation of listed buildings. His last job before retirement was as the Clerk of Works at the Inns of Court - where buildings date back to the 1100’s. His job was paramount in ensuring things were done right - every time I walked past the house I though of him and how we all miss him.
Some of my favourite programs to watch are Grand Designs with Kevin Mc Cloud, and George Clarke’s Remarkable Renovations, Old House New Home and The Restoration Man. What I enjoy most during these programmes is seeing how homeowners bring buildings back to life and at the same time bring them up to date, blending the two together. It’s so easy to raze a home to the ground in Canada, and the challenges of keeping in line with preservation orders on Historic Homes must be numerous. Bravo to anyone who can take on a project like this - devote copious hours and insurmountable budget to contribute to it’s living history and create a home for the future.
Can’t wait for Sept 7th!! To find out more artinmygarden.ca - 60+ artists, 30+ gardens in Old Oakville.
HISTORY OF THE HOUSE : Read more about 176 Front Street HERE
