Brian Atyeo

We are very lucky that Brian Atyeo has a home and studio in the Peggy's Cove Area. He is a wonderful artist who has had a tremendous influence on many local painters.

HIs paintings are well known for their bold and spiritual impressions of jazz, figure, and the Canadian landscape.  His work is a constant exploration of colour and form showing remarkable confidence. Here are four of my favourites that demonstrate the range of his work.

A native of Toronto, Brian shares his knowledge and skill at workshops across Canada. Early each summer he offers a workshop locally which many of our artists participate in.

From July 31 to August 12 2011, Brian will be the feature artist at  Jo Beale Gallery in Peggy's Cove. Drop in on July 31 between 2 and 4 to meet him and discuss his work.

And The Winner is......

Last Monday Suzanne Day and I presented Laura Charlton, winner of Suzanne's painting, "Peggy's Cove Crescendo," with her prize. Laura was thrilled to win the painting and we were pleased to know it is going to such a good home.

Not only did Laura visit 5 of the open studios but she brought along guests from Ontario AND purchased 5 paintings from our participating artists and now has a lovely collection of Peggy's Cove Area Art in her home.

Laura Charlton, Suzanne Day and "Peggy's Cove Crescendo"

Open Studio Weekend - look for this flag

Not all studios/locations are open each day - look for this flag as you drive along. It indicates that that location is on the tour and open.

Open Studio Weekend

There are 15 locations along the Peggy's Cove and Prospect Roads (rte 333) today and tomorrow. Visit at least five of them and you will be entered into a draw to win the painting below:

You will find the name, address and a map of the open studios here

Meaghan Smith/Ryan MacGrath Concert tonight.

Today is a big day on our festival schedule with the concert at St Luke's Church in Upper Tantallon. There are still tickets available so if you haven't made plans yet you can pay at the door.

The church is very easy to find and is just 20 minutes from the Armdale round-a-bout. Take highway 103 from Halifax to exit 5. Turn left at the top of the exit ramp and follow Hammonds Plainds Road to the end. Turn right and go straight at the lights at route 333 and continue for about 1 km. You will see St Luke's on your left.

View Larger Map

See you tonight.

A Day to Visit Our Festival Exhibits

Today is a busy day as we prepare for the Meaghan Smith/Ryan McGrath tomorrow night today. It is going to be a great one. Great music, great door prizes (think music, hammocks, art) in a great setting.

We have several exhibits of local art you may want to drop in on today:

At Jo Beale Gallery in Peggy's Cove: Several local artists display there. Featured artists today are Sarah Irwin and Leya Evelyn.

At Oceanstone Cafe in Indian Harbour: The photography of Roger Morin.  The cafe is a new concept at Oceanstone. I had lunch there a day or two ago and it was excellent! Drop in, enjoy Roger's photography - it is truly amazing what he sees through the lens of a camera - and a tasty lunch or coffee break.

At the Finer Diner: Lee Fraser is the guest artist today. He will be on the Ice Cream Deck with his wonderful and realistic paintings. As always, Sarah Irwin, co-owner of the diner - has a selection of her wonderful art on display in the diner. Another opportunity to enjoy lunch in an art filled atmosphere.

And then there is Mother Nature's Art Gallery. Take your time driving around our area, stop often to savour the beauty we are surrounded by. It will lift your spirit and brighten your day.

And looking towards the weekend: You could win this painting during our Open Studio Tour on Saturday and Sunday.

A Busy Day Today

Festival Events:

10 am to 4 pm, At The Finer Diner: Photographer Joanne McCarthy will be showing her photographs and art cards on the ice cream deck.

6 pm to 9 pm, at Shining Waters Marina: Art and Hamachi Sushi night. Eight or so artists will be displaying their work (including a Japanese Calligraphy artist) and a Hamachi Sushi chef will be preparing and serving sushi. More info here

8 pm at 7143 St Margaret's Bay Rd: A house concert featuring Maple Blues winner Thom Swift. $20/person. Pay at the door.

Come on out and have some fun!