Category Archives: Art
It’s All About Regional Marketing…
In 2010, my mom and I traveled to Ireland. We rented a car and went from Cork-Kinsale-Killarney-Galway-Sligo-Belfast-Giant’s Causeway-Dublin-Kilkenny-Waterford-Wexford-London. Cork is Ireland’s second largest city (about the size of St. John’s, NL), however, just a short distance away is Kinsale, a small town that is known for its food culture. With 2,257 people it is about the size of St. Anthony on the Great Northern Peninsula. The regional marketing had us take the drive to the neighbouring community. It was an experience!
The Provincial Government has cut its marketing budget by 25%. Despite winning 183 awards and being internationally recognized, the market for the International, out-of-province and local market is highly competitive and stakeholders will have to do more to market their business to maintain their bottom lines. I believe it’s all about regional marketing, let’s pool our resources and develop vacation guides, business directory, updates, mini-sites and more in a modern Viking Trail Tourism website.
Check out how Kinsale market’s itself: http://kinsale.ie/.
The Great Northern Peninsula has many reasons for which one must visit. Here is a short-list:
- Gros Morne National Park, WORLD UNESCO Site – home to the Table Lands and 155,000 visitors annually.
- L’Anse aux Meadows, WORLD UNESCO Site – more than 1,000 years ago, the Vikings were the first Europeans to re-discover North America. The only authenticated North American viking site. Nearby, Norstead Viking Village & Port of Trade is home to the replica viking ship, the Snorri. Wonderful cuisine en route: The Daily Catch, Northern Delight, Snow’s Take-out and The Norseman Restaurant.
- Community of 50 Centuries, Bird Cove – for more than 5,000 the Maritime Archaic Indians, Paleo-Eskimo, Gros-Water Eskimo and recent Indians. As well, a Basque presence and Captain James Cook cairn. Port au Choix National Historic Site has unique interpretation of archaeology and history.
- The French Shore (Petit Nord) – Conche’s Interpretation Centre is home to a 222 ft tapestry depicting the French history, the Granchain Exhibit is found in St. Lunaire-Griquet
- Grenfell Historic Properties - highlights the legendary Sir Doctor Wilfred Grenfell, his International Association, residence and his economic development through the co-operative process. Grenfell Historical Foundation and Handicrafts remain an integral part of the continuing story. Grenfell Memorial Co-op is the Newfoundland & Labrador’s oldest consumer co-op. Nearby are the Jordi Bonet Murals, Northland Discovery Boat Tours, Polar Bear Exhibit & Fishing Point Park.
- Burnt Cape Ecological Reserve - home to more than 300 plants, 30 of which are rare and one Burnt Cape cinquefoil, which the Great Northern Peninsula is the only place in the world where this species grows. Raleigh is also home to a fishing village and carving shop.
- Leifsbudir – The Great Viking Feast is the only sod restaurant in North America, built into the rock of Fishing Point, St. Anthony
- GNP Craft Producers – a unique gift shop that makes seal skin products and shares the history of seal skin boot making. In nearby Flower’s Cove one will find “Seal Skin” boot church. The community is also home to thrombolites (existing on just a few places on earth).
- Deep Cove Winter Housing Site - a National Historic Site is an open air museum which highlights the way of life residents experienced in both summer and winter living. It is south of Anchor Point which is home to the peninsula’s oldest consecrated cemetery.
- Torrent River Salmon Interpretation Centre - the Interpretation centre in Hawke’s Bay is a must for the salmon enthusiast. Beyond the mighty Torrent, many salmon rivers exist in Main Brook. Roddickton-Bide Arm is a great place to also participate in recreational hunting and fishing, it is home to the natural Underground Salmon Pool.
An array of walking trails, nature, wildlife, icebergs, whales, recreational hunting and fishing, picturesque outport communities, attractions, shops, restaurants, crafts, festivals, events, local culture and heritage and people who will make any visit a treasured experience on the Great Northern Peninsula. We make need to take a page out of Kinsale’s book, and work as a region to pool our marketing resources and create a more dynamic on-line presence that takes in our region’s unique offerings!
Experience the Great Northern Peninsula & start planning your vacation today!
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- What a view today on the Great Northern Peninsula… (liveruralnl.com)
- Inspired by our Lifestyle & Fishing Heritage (liveruralnl.com)
- Fishing Remains Our Mainstay (liveruralnl.com)
We all have stories to tell…
We all have stories to tell. We share them with our friends, family and even the world through the social media. There is a time and space for this type of art form. I use my blog as a forum to share knowledge of culture, people, landscapes, business, heritage and history of the Great Northern Peninsula. Our way of life has been viewed by nearly 180 countries world-wide and edging closer to 200,000 views. I may not have the talents of my grandfather Mitchelmore for storytelling, but I do my best to convey what is truly authentic to rural Newfoundland & Labrador.
This past weekend, my sister and I had a unique opportunity to be in the audience at the St. John’s Arts & Culture Centre and were spectators to a performance scripted by a local playwright, Megan Coles.
Our Eliza is real – authentic. A true depiction of what life was like growing up in rural Newfoundland & Labrador not so long ago. It is masterfully crafted – capturing the audience from the first soundbite as it works its way through a powerful coming of age story. One exuding Newfoundland humour and wit, colourful language and actions that will keep you wanting more, long after the curtain closes. Our Eliza is the type of story that must be told beyond centre stage, it should be shared with Outport Newfoundland & Labrador – one of which we can all reflect upon as to who we truly are as a people – a society. -Christopher C. Mitchelmore, MHA
When I picked up my tickets at the box office, I was asked my address. I responded, “Green Island Cove”. The person asked where that was and I said, “The Great Northern Peninsula”. She said, I will be in for a real treat with tonight’s showing and that it has been getting great reviews from those in attendance. This certainly raised my expectations, especially since Friday and Saturday night’s performances had sold out.
The very first soundbite set the stage of framing for the audience the hardship the moratorium would have on our way of life in rural Newfoundland & Labrador. Actors Greg Malone (Author of “Don’t Tell The Newfoundlanders”), Joel Thomas Hynes and Renee Hackett turned the clock back more than twenty years and had us reminiscing only in the stories our parents and grandparents could had told us. Our Eliza, is the typical Newfoundland girl, who becomes a woman and the glue that kept many of us together especially when times got tough. The modest, yet powerful story that lasted about 1 hour and half was filled with humour, wit and antics in which I could easily relate. I do not want to give away the story-line I want you to go experience it for yourself.
These talents have engaged in putting our culture, our life experiences into performance, which brings together many art forms. We can all learn something about our roots and the role in which space plays in it. I took a Newfoundland Society & Culture, in which I learned much about community order and our every day space. It was pleasing to hear writer and co-producer Megan Coles, and co-producer Shannon Hawes, founders of The Poverty Cove Theatre Company open the show highlighting the minimalism utilized in staging, as well as the desire to be able to tell this story in non-conventional spaces. On March 2 & 3, the performance has found a home in the Library of the St. John’s Arts & Culture Centre. You can purchase tickets at www.artsandculturecentre.com.
Thank you Megan Coles for sharing with us your creative talents and all those involved with the current production. You have made Our Eliza, a part of all of us. I only hope this story gets told throughout rural Newfoundland & Labrador where it can be at home, especially the Great Northern Peninsula.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthInspired by our Lifestyle & Fishing Heritage
The Great Northern Peninsula has been known as “Petit Nord“, it has been inhabited by the Aboriginals, Vikings, Recent Indians, Basques, French, Irish, Scottish and English settlers. Life has existed because of the fishery, and continues even today.
Products created by local artists dominate my office at the confederation building and complement our rich fishing heritage. Hanging on the wall is an original painting done by Danny Rose that depicts Flower’s Island Lighthouse and continues to include an iceberg and shipping vessel. The lighthouse played a critical role for safety, with radio operators on-site as well.
The fishers are splitting their fish, near Noddy Bay on the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula in another. This piece was done by William Bartlett. The artwork has a very unique look, especially when you take a closer look at the facial expressions of people.
My most recent purchase is “Le Mousse”, the French fisherman. I purchased this on-site at the French Shore Interpretation Centre’s Guardian Gift Shop in Conche, NL (www.frenchshore.com). This was created by the very talented Loretta Decker of L’Anse aux Meadows. She is much better at staging her photos, so I borrowed this image (full credit to Loretta Decker below). I’m told this fisher could resemble me, you will have to be the judge.
Ms. Decker also does Viking Troll dolls. Images can be found at Norstead Viking Village Inc.’s Facebook Page. We must support our local artists and craft producers. Their ideas and creativity touch the lives of many and do so much more to promote the region, its history, heritage, people and culture.
We must continue to develop unique products that illustrate our rich and vibrant culture on the Great Northern Peninsula. It can be done. There are lots of new opportunities to create, market and share the wonderful stories of our past, present and future.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- Fishing Remains Our Mainstay (liveruralnl.com)
- “Here’s to Great Ideas, Great Experiences and a Great Friendship” – 2013 (liveruralnl.com)
- Giving the Gift of something Handmade cannot be Beat (liveruralnl.com)
- Family Time – Remember when the capelin rolled in….. (liveruralnl.com)
My Newfoundland & Labrador themed Christmas Tree
Every decorated Christmas tree is like a snowflake in design, as each one is truly unique. I like to add a flavour of Newfoundland & Labrador to my tree. it seems each year, I manage to add something handmade that relates to local lore and culture.
There are specialty stores that pop-up during the holidays and there are those that are open year round selling Christmas items. Imagine the opportunity we have on the Great Northern Peninsula to put our talents to use and make a variety of Christmas ornaments. An informal group, development organization or craft co-op can be formed to get this moving.
I got the seal skin boots depicted above as a gift from the late Aunt Stella Hoddinott. They hung from the mirror of my car for years. It certainly makes them easy to find in a parking lot.
My sister has been a modest entrepreneur throughout the years and made several handmade Christmas ornaments. I am pretty sure my mom and I helped her some 13 years ago and I proudly display the scallop shell angel on the tree.
I have a passion for the mummer’s and look forward to going around visiting before Old Christmas day. I’ve participated in all three Mummer’s Walks and there is a Mummer’s Dance on Saturday! I picked up the accordion ornament at a Christmas store on my first visit to Montreal in 2011. There is another pair of seal skin boots (came from Iqaluit), an Inukshuk (purchased at Grenfell Heritage Shoppe) and a set of snowshoes made by the late Tom Newcombe. I remember giving him a number of wire hangers to make several pairs.
The Newfoundland Boil-up is a tradition that many practise, especially at this time of year. A good ol’ cup of tea in the woods and a small scoff of roasted Newfie Steak (balogna) on a stick or sausages, canned beans and a slice of homemade bread- nothing like it! Also in the picture is “Little Sheila” an Inuk, I made in 2010, while on a cultural exchange in Labrador.
The gallery below depicts a few others: I’ve bought a lobster claw at the Craft Council’s Fall Fair, I have a matching capelin from Grenfell Heritage Shoppe. The amigurumi grey fish came from the Guardian gift shop at the French Shore Interpretation Centre in Conche, the Puffin was a gift from Amanda. The homemade ball with candy canes were made by the group from Community Readiness for People with Disabilities. The wooden ornament came from the Wind & Waves Artisan Shop in Joe Batt’s Arm, Fogo Island as part of the Shorefast Foundation. The killick is an old-fashioned anchor made by Frank Elliott of Main Brook, I purchased from him when I owned and operated Flower’s Island Museum & Mini-golf; in that same picture is my most recent addition of a hand painted ornament of Prague, Czech Republic (where I studied in Europe) and a pair of knitted mittens, made by the late Aunt Dora White. Also, a photo depicts hockey skates, which reminded me of the ones my Dad always wore when he played hockey and another pair of Uncle Tom’s snowshoes are on display next to the reindeer.
I enjoy adding more traditional ornaments to my Christmas tree. There is a real opportunity for hobbyists, crafters and those with an interest to start-up a home-based business, craft co-op or other enterprise to learn new skills and make an income. Let’s not let your talents pass up such an opportunity that can serve as a year-round business.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
Related articles
- “Here’s to Great Ideas, Great Experiences and a Great Friendship” – 2013 (liveruralnl.com)
- 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk Continues to Break Local Record (liveruralnl.com)
- Giving the Gift of something Handmade cannot be Beat (liveruralnl.com)
- Marketing Rural Newfoundland & Labrador & the VTTA (liveruralnl.com)
- A Cod Jigger Coat Hook (liveruralnl.com)
Giving the Gift of something Handmade cannot be Beat
As we celebrate the season of giving, I still believe the best presents are not the ones that can be bought on-line or at some retail outlet but those gifts without price tags attached – but the gifts one makes by hand.
How wonderful are the holidays when grandma comes with a deliciously handmade apple pie, just ready to put in the oven? How often do we look forward to Aunt’s fruitcake, cousin’s cookies or a friend’s cinnamon rolls? There are those that always make an ornament or holiday wreath. We have knitters and quilters that do it their way, knit and sew stitches with ultimate care. We all have those crafty friends and family members that take the time out to show they care. These types of presents are the gifts that simply can not be replaced.
I’d like to share with you some of the handmade items, I received this year for Christmas:
1.Hooked Rug: It is certainly not every day someone will give you a hooked rug. It takes many hours of time and dedication to end up with a finished product. I remember making my first and only hooked rug to date in Winter 2011. It took 50 hours to complete. Hooked rugs represent a time of economic development, especially for women, as Dr. Wilfred Grenfell encouraged women to make hooked rugs to help supplement family incomes. They still sell Grenfell rugs at the Grenfell Centre in St. Anthony today. I love this rug and everything it represents as it depicts a shrimp at sea – the lifeblood for many communities of the Straits-White Bay North. Without such fishing activity and processing our region would face much difficulty. It now hangs in my bedroom near the window, which boasts a view of the water. I can not thank the giver enough for what it means to be presented with such a gift! Please do keep up your efforts, as this hooked rug inspires me to push harder for the fishers and those who make their living from the sea.
2. Knitted Socks: My grandmother had included in her present a pair of knitted socks. I love them – a pair of knitted socks is to be coveted. I’ve already placed one on my feet when I attended the 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk. The other foot had a striped knitted sock done by my Aunt Christina. These socks like others will find a home when I wear my seal skin boots or want to ensure my feet remain nice and cozy. These have been a tradition of Newfoundland & Labrador for centuries.
3. Sealskin Business Card Holder: A traditional-bark tanned sealskin has been designed to hold my braille business cards. I will use it proudly. We have such a history on the Great Northern Peninsula when it comes to sealing. For instance, St. Barnabas Church, Flower’s Cove is known locally as “sealskin boot church” because the building fund was provided by sales of women making and selling sealskin boots. This product will go nicely with my bark-tan wallet. Thank you SabrinaLisa for another incredible gift.
4. Handmade Quilt: My 81-year-old grandmother has given me a beautiful handmade quilt for Christmas that she made herself this year. She has always made lots of quilts throughout the years, but never one to call my own. Christmas 2012 is very special to have the gift of a handmade quilt from Nan. I’m not sure how many more she’ll make, but I hope she continues the tradition. I’m quite pleased to see at least a couple of her daughters have picked up the skill, keeping quilt-making in the family alive and well.
Traditions, culture and local knowledge should be passed on. I hope my liveruralnl.com blog continues to help document some of the many traditions, culture, heritage, history, landscapes and people of the Great Northern Peninsula.
Happy Holidays & New Year to All -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
Related articles
- 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk Continues to Break Local Record (liveruralnl.com)
- Marketing Rural Newfoundland & Labrador & the VTTA (liveruralnl.com)
A Cod Jigger Coat Hook
A couple of weekends ago I visited the St. John’s Arts & Culture Centre as the Craft Council had hosted their annual Christmas Fair. There were many artisans, artists and authors – all exhibiting their wares. A wide selection of textiles, stain glass, sculptures, Newfoundland & Labrador publishers, chocolates, ornaments, jewelry, photos, prints, sealskin and more.
I had made many purchases that day but I wanted to highlight my cod jigger coat hook in the photo below, which was handcrafted at the Green Family Forge.
The Green Family Forge has been a fixture in Trinity for more than 250 years in this province. The Trinity Historical Society proudly operates an active forge and has its handcrafted products for retail online. If you would like a custom-made product or purchase directly on-line to support one of our heritage industries their website is: http://www.trinityhistoricalsociety.com/shop_online.htm. The Historical Society realizes the importance of product development and gift shop sales to a non-profit. They have gotten creative by hammering out letter openers, coat hooks, fire pokers, key chains and more.
I am encouraged they are encompassing an important element of our culture, the “cod jigger” in a modern coat hook design that can be placed in the home or office. It is a conversation piece, a fixture – a realization that the cod fishery was the reason for the established permanent settlement in Newfoundland & Labrador.
Thirteen summers ago, I spent some time fishing cod with my father and had the opportunity to try my hand with the cod jigger. It will be a cherished memory, until I can take to the water and jig for cod again. This cod jigger coat hanger will be proudly placed in my home as a reminder of the importance of the cod jigger to our culture, heritage and history.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
Related articles
- Could the Harp be the Next Tourist Attraction? (liveruralnl.com)
- Mitchelmore: Change in fish selling would benefit harvesters, consumers (christophermitchelmore.com)
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- Year-round tourism would get boost from snowmobiling (christophermitchelmore.com)
Bring Rural NL to Life on MHA’s 2012 Christmas Card
The Straits-White Bay North
Amigurumi Seals – The Perfect Gift
On February 3, 2012 – NDP Housing Critic, Gerry Rogers and I visited Conche, NL. This community is home to the French Shore Interpretation Centre.
I did not expect be able to buy seal product at their gift shop. I was pleasantly surprised to be introduced to amigurumi at “The Guardian Gift Shop”.
See my seal below:
Amigurumi (編みぐるみ?, lit. crocheted or knitted stuffed toy) is the Japanese art of knitting or crocheting small stuffed animals and anthropomorphic creatures. The word is derived from a combination of the Japanese words ami, meaning crocheted or knitted, and nuigurumi, meaning stuffed doll.[1] Amigurumi are typically animals, but can include artistic renderings or inanimate objects endowed with anthropomorphic features,[2] as is typical in Japanese culture. -Wikipedia
The shop had a lovely assortment of animals from whales, turtles, rabbits, elephants, puffins, seals, fish and more. This is a unique offering that is handmade by local Elaine Dower. If you would like to purchase an Amigurumi Animal, please visit the French Shore Historical Society – their website is www.frenchshore.com. The price of product ranges from $3-$15. A great toy, souvenir or memento to live rural Newfoundland & Labrador.
There are so many talented individuals on the Great Northern Peninsula, making things by hand. Let’s support our local markets, local gift shops and help strengthen rural communities.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- TAD 13: Amigurumi fish (thingaday2012.wordpress.com)
- Bunsen Burner Amigurumi (craftzine.com)
- Leslie Hall Amigurumi From Crafty is Cool (craftzine.com)
The Straits-White Bay North Constituency Office – Opens Public Art Gallery
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA for The Straits-White Bay North invites all local artists to provide one or two sample paintings, prints, hooked rugs, wall hangings or other art forms to be placed on display in the public space of our local constituency office located at:
Public Building PO Box 620 279-82 West Street St. Anthony, NL A0K 4S0We ask that all art be submitted with name, telephone number, mailing address, brief story behind the art and the artist. All proceeds from sales will be directed back to the local artist.
The Public are invited to drop by the Constituency Office (pictured above) or schedule an appointment to meet with the MHA to discuss concerns, issues or ideas.
Email: cmitchelmore@gov.nl.ca Toll-Free: 1-888-729-6091 Tel: 709-454-2646 Live Rural NL - Christopher C. Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- MHA to Hold Public Meetings at All Towns in District (liveruralnl.com)
A Hospital Like No Other – Visit the Rotunda in St. Anthony, NL
Curtis Memorial Hospital was built-in the 1960′s – a sophisticated medical facility at the time servicing the Great Northern Peninsula and many parts of Labrador. The John M. Grey Centre, a modern personal care facility is adjacent to the hospital and now falls under the banner of Labrador-Grenfell Health. Unlike most medical facilities – this hospital has a rotunda with a unique offering of murals that are dedicated to the people of Northern Newfoundland & Labrador.
These are the Jordi Boney Murals, which circulate around the Main Entrance. This ceramic masterpiece is forever a gift to the people and our way of living. One will see images of people, fish, trees, snowshoes and water. An important means of subsisting from the land & sea.
If you have the opportunity the next time you are in St. Anthony pull into the Hospital and take a few moments to find the meaning behind the images circling the walls.
The Great Northern Peninsula has a unique offering!
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthMurals Depict Aspects of the Past – Bell Island, NL
The Wabana Mines have been a part of the history since early 1610, as noted on a plaque adjacent to the mural. However, it was not until 1895 until the first cargo of ore was shipped to Nova Scotia. The Memorial was placed in 1974 to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of joining Confederation and to remember those who gave their lives to the production of iron ore from 1895 to 1966. A total of 106 names are listed on the memorial.
The value of such murals whether placed by local artists or the Provincial Government should be far-reaching in small Towns, Communities and even in larger centres as we strive to build vibrant economies that remember the past and build towards a modern tomorrow. Large centres may have advertisements from the past, with namesakes such as Crosby’s, Purity, Velma’s and maybe even an Auntie Crae’s to remember these fixtures. In rural regions, let us continue the beautification by hosting open air art galleries on fences, fishing rooms and outer buildings. Let’s celebrate our past, present and future with Murals, Memorials and outdoor art.
We did not have the opportunity to get a tour of the mine, but did pay homage to those who gave their lives while working to provide for their families. If you are on Bell Island, you may want to visit this Mural and many others.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- Find Yourself on Bell Island, NL – Part 2 (liveruralnl.com)
A Resemblance of Shamus from Family Guy on Bell Island, NL
I have always had an appreciation for those who had taken the time to be creative and produce a form of Folk Art. It seems to be present less and less as I drive the island of Newfoundland. As I drove the road passing by this fellow, I couldn`t resist but to turn my car around and take a quick snap. One never knows what they will find exploring on a random road trip to Bell Island, NL.
At first glance, I was reminded of the seafaring character `Shamus`on Family Guy with the wooden arms and legs. This chap by the looks of him will be brightly lit by nightfall after pounding back some 5 Star Rum, Grey Goose Vodka and a case of Canadian Light or it may be just the fact that he will get some juice from Newfoundland & Labrador Power. 
. I have never been very good at drafting a funny, most people laugh at my facial expressions or quirky actions versus my well-versed puns and wit – that talent fell upon my Grandfather Mitchelmore. He was a great at reciting lines, jokes and stories.
If you have a cool piece of folk art, please send your photos and story behind the art to liveruralnl@gmail.com.
Let us keep the creativity flowing in rural and urban parts of Newfoundland & Labrador. I would hate to see Folk Art become obsolete from our yards and walkways. Hop in your car, grab the camera and explore the beauty of your own backyard.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- Find Yourself on Bell Island, Newfoundland & Labrador (liveruralnl.com)
Treasures and Rare Finds at Dr. Henry N. Payne Community Museum
The Dr. Henry N. Payne Community Museum & Craft Shop at Cow Head, NL is within walking distance of the Shallow Bay Motel and the home of Gros Morne Theatre Festival.
On August 4, 2011 I visited this Community Museum. It brought me back nearly a decade ago when I first started Flower’s Island Museum in Nameless Cove in July 2002. The old homestead similarly was filled with items of the 19th century and had stories adorning the walls highlighting baking bread, domestic life and past residents that were pillars of the community.
Dr. Henry Payne was a dedicated teacher for 45 years, Justice of the Peace and a field worker for the Co-operative Movement.
Since the 1950s the co-operative movement has continued to grow. Today, it consists of related organizations with significant influence in the agriculture, finance, insurance, fishing, retail and housing industries. Retail co-operatives play significant roles on the Prairies and in Atlantic Canada, according to Canadian Encyclopedia.
Rural Communities were built around the cooperation of its residents. It led to development. We may have to re-visit the co-operative model and consider it for craft retail, tourism marketing, fishery and agricultural sectors on the Great Northern Peninsula.
The Museum has a wealth of artifacts from the past. Entrance is just $3.00 and if under 12 there is no admission fee. The kitchen has the old stove, with flat irons ready to be heated for ironing clothes. In the pantry there was an old water pump in the basin and many old tins and cans, which were former homes for tea, spice, flour and other foodstuffs.
The rocking chair below is a rarity. It certainly is one of a kind and a symbol of the times. This appears to be an old hooping barrel converted into a rocking chair. You may also notice the hinges on the seat. It was also good for storage – maybe the wife’s knitting and wool would be neatly stowed away. Nevertheless, this piece illustrates the ingenuity of a rural Newfoundlander & Labradorian.
Rug Hooking has begun to see a revival on the Great Northern Peninsula. I have seen rug hooking kits for sale at many outlets, the Grenfell Interpretation Centre sells a variety of hooked rugs, the College of the North Atlantic had delivered a Mat Hooking course (which, I enrolled), many rugs were hooked in Englee and Main Brook. This is an excellent opportunity to place your images of Rural Life in an art form. Community-members could come together to form a rug hooking cooperative as was in the past with the Grenfell Foundation. People would send their stockings to the women of Labrador and the Great Northern Peninsula to hook Grenfell Rugs.
The Dr. Henry Payne Museum offers Rug Hooking classes on-site, taught by the multi-talented Glenda Bavis. If you are interested in learning this trade make contact at: 709 243-2466 or
g.bavis@nf.sympatico.ca.
The museum is a rare find with photos, period furniture, artifacts, geology and more. Additionally, a visit to their gift shop is a treasure hunt. They have a little bit of everything from candles, postcards, hand-knit sweaters, pottery, pewter bowls, Dark Tickle products, books, antler buttons, pet rocks, jewellery, music and more. (http://www.cowhead.ca/heritage/)
If you have the time, drop by this museum. They are open until 8:00 PM! The two staffers working we able to answer my questions, as I can be very inquisitive at times. I like playing the role of a tourist even on the Great Northern Peninsula, as it is nice to see the product and service offering others experience when they visit local sites. Great job!
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Christopher C. Mitchelmore
Twitter/LiveRuralNL
Related articles
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Having a Good Scuff at the 10th Annual St. Anthony Music Festival
On August 5, 2011 myself and a friend had plans to take in the 10th Annual St. Anthony Music Festival. After a quick stop at Tim Horton‘s for an ice cap, we drove up to a little paradise with panoramic views, trails, restaurants and an emporium. It can be the peak of your experience. I was able to park my car and get a good view of the many icebergs. There is also one lonely fisherman in the harbour, maybe he plans to catch a few cod-fish while the recreational fishery.
The reason for the trip was to take in the festivities and hear the diverse talents of our local musicians. They had a great line-up of performers that would appeal to everyone’s fancy, from Folk, Traditional Newfoundland & Labrador, Blue Grass, Country, Old Time Rock N’ Roll and other songs from popular culture. The Olympia was a buzz – there was a sense of happiness from the people in the room. I spoke with a number of people and even found some travelling to St. Anthony from Corner Brook, NL and even as far as Northern Quebec and Nunavut.
Addmission was just $10.00 to hear 9 different bands/performers. The schedule was as follows:
- 7:30 PM Doors Open. Recorded Music
- 8:00 PM The Pumper Boys
- 9:00 PM Angela Byrne & Alphonsus Reardon
- 9:30 PM Alphonsus Reardon & Albert Kinsella
- 9:45 PM Wade Hillier
- 10:15 PM Max Sexton
- 10:30 PM Jade Gibbons
- 11:00 PM Skipper Hotts Band
- Midnight Sam S., Adam R., Trevor N., & John H.
- 1:30 AM – Close Dwayne Snow
Alphonsus Reardon & Angela Byrne perform some traditional music. She had a beautiful voice and was the only female performer during the whole show. Great job & hopefully next year more female singers will come out and participate. There certainly were no shortage of women in attendance, as they filled up the dance floor.
Wade Hillier has many talents – Viking re-enactor, story and joke teller, as well as a musician. I heard him the Friday prior performing at the Norseman Restaurant in L’Anse Aux Meadows. My two friends from California enjoyed his tunes, that they purchased a copy of his CD. I love the deep voice Wade has and especially love hearing his rendition of Aunt Martha’s Sheep and anything he does by Johnny Cash!
Ford Blake is one part of the Skipper Hotts Band, as he riddles out the tunes on the old squeeze box. I had the joy of hearing him and a part of his band play at Skipper Hotts Lounge in Straitsview the previous Friday as well. There my two friends would get Screeched-in (photos and story to follow). Tonight they had their full complement and their music pulled the people out on the floor to dance up a storm.
Prior to his performance I had asked him about playing the accordion. He had told me he started learning by playing on his father’s old one as a little boy, because you certainly were not allowed to use the good one back in those days. Drop by Skipper Hotts Lounge in Straitview and you too may be greeted by this self-taught talent and his band’s traditional music. The sound of music in Rural Newfoundland & Labrador is vibrant and even more so due to the people with the talent of being able to play the accordion.
Despite the chill in the air of the stadium, the night ended up drawing a large crowd. I have to commend the organizers as they handed out a schedule with important information, which included a floor plan. This helped people find the washroom, concession stand, bar, drink ticket area, seating area and designated smoking area. As well, the local Boys & Girls Club benefited from revenues sold at the concession stand. It was nice to see that monies would go back to a local cause and benefit the area’s youth.
The Music Festival brought a crowd of young and young-at-heart alike out to the floor. I had a great time meeting new people, catching up with old friends, having a glass of Screech & Coke, dancing and enjoying the life in the stadium created through music.
Great Job!
Live Rural NL -
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
Twitter/LiveRuralNL
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World Renown Youth Choir Visits the Great Northern Peninsula
The Saltwater Joys – Tour of Newfoundland & Labrador presented by The Munich Youth Choir set the stage that drew a large audience at the Bird Cove Community Centre on Tuesday, August 2, 2011 at 7:00 PM.
It was wonderful to see nearly 200 people come out for this event that had limited marketing in the region.
They opened the event to all and accepted donations. It was nice to see the inclusiveness and variety of all age groups from a few years to the mid-eighties. I was fortunate to be able to sit in the audience. I have attended operas, musicals, theatres and other special performances in Europe; however, this was my first by youth. It was a very empowering experience!
A production that promotes the exchange and share of culture. We were greeted with German music, British, English, Japanese, Australian, African, Classical, Popular Culture and even tunes from Newfoundland & Labrador.
I was captivated by their rendition of “Yesterday” by the Beatles. For me this was completely unexpected. I really did not know the aptitude of this group and their talents. I was pleasantly surprised. They utilized different instruments, including a bone drum, tambourine and keyboard accordian. Celebrate Life made me smile, enough that I purchase their “Folk CD” and have played it in my car to and from work for more than 1 hour.
Music is the universal language - Re-quoted by Blair Gaulton, Tour Organizor
The Sister Act tunes really were upbeat! It was also a first hearing a song recited in Japanese. Although, I truly enjoyed hearing the Newfoundland Tunes of “Danny Boy“, “I’se da By’s” and one of my favourites “Saltwater Joys”.
They were impressive! It reminded me of being at the Opera House in Prague, Czech Republic watching a Grand Performance, when you realize that you are in Rural Newfoundland & Labrador at the local community centre. The World has come to us, to share with us their talents and we had the opportunity to share with this group from Munich the rural lifestyle. I have been on an exchange, lived, studies and travelled Europe visiting nearly 30 different countries and there is much value in meeting, learning and sharing ideas with others.
The Munich Youth Choir was given the opportunity to meet and hang out with locals, travel the peninsula, visit Icebergs and even meet Rose. Rose is a local resident, well – Crinkle Cove, I think? She provided some light hearted humour while the band played traditional Newfoundland & Labrador music including the “ugly stick”.
The group easily broke into dance with the group. There was much positive energy, harmony and happiness in the room with each others company. Rose lead the way to provide a re-vised version of the Screech-in, making each visitor an honourary Newfoundlander by dressing, dancing, eating, talking and drinking Purity Syrup and kissing a cod fish.
Pucker Up!
After 3 hours at the center, I was deeply rewarded for contributing my time and making a donation. In turn was exposed to music, art and culture from a very talented group of individuals. I had taken away many photos, a couple of cds and the cherished memories of being there for something wonderful.
Communities came together, people were happy and we have an opportunity for more growth. Rural Newfoundland & Labrador is a good venue beyond the large urban centres for culturally significant events and entertainment.
A special thank you to the Munich Youth Choir, organizers, sponsors and local groups such as the Big Droke Foundation. St. Barbe Development Association, Going Healthy Program – Bird Cove and the Town of Bird Cove.
For those of you that missed the performance, you can drop by sometime for a cup of tea from the Dark Tickle Company and listen to the music. There is opportuntiy for Rural Newfoundland & Labrador to exchange talents, hosting a multitude of learning vacations.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
Twitter/LiveRuralNL
Moose Antlers Make Quite the Entrance – Englee, NL
On a recent trip to Englee, NL my attention was drawn to the house below that had a very beautifully landscaped yard, fountain with Moose Antlers combined to make quite the entrance.
I am proud to see this unique creation by a local artist. It is great to see creative uses for a product that most people would just throw away. Moose are in abundance on the Great Northern Peninsula. Males shed their antlers each season to conserve energy, as well their antlers can be obtained during Moose Hunting season in Fall/early Winter.
There is value in producing unique products. I have seen antlers used to form a large chandelier at the Tuckamore Lodge, Main Brook. There are also a select few with the talents to tediously carve from the moose antler.
This past weekend, my two friends showed me a unique product made from a wooden tree with deer antlers - a Coat Tree.
We have an opportunity to produce unique products made from moose antlers. We can develop a cottage industry around them and make high-end coat trees, chandeliers, entrance posts, and others. We have talented people in our rural economies that could produce during the Fall/Winter these products from sale on-line or at local gift shops.
There are simple solutions that can help our rural communities survive and thrive. With the appropriate partnerships and involvement by stakeholders we can change the state of our economy.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
Twitter/LiveRuralNL
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GNP Craft Producers Launches Website – Shoal Cove East, NL
GNP Craft Producers Launch New Website: www.gnpcraft.com
Visit them for a unique offering as they specialize in sealskin products.
Products are locally made. The pleated sealskin boots are made by a local resident in her early 80′s. She has been producing the boots for 7 decades. Seal skin boots protected us from the harsh winter conditions and damp weather.
You may want to pick up the “Out of Necessity – The Story of Sealskin Boots in the Strait of Belle Isle“.
I proudly wear my sealskin boots during winter. I turned a few heads at Memorial University on days walking across campus wearing sealskin prepared by my father.
Take some time to learn about our culture – the seal hunt, the impact on our economy and the art of sealskin boot making. You may be amazed with what your find out.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
Twitter/LiveRuralNL
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Local Conche Artist has Talent
I love art that comes from the local region. These past few days I have been able to visit gift shops and talk with some local artists about their wares. I have purchased a hodgepodge of Newfoundlandia, including sealskin miniatures, snowshoes, Labradorite, prints, shells, rocks, pottery and more. The region has so much to offer! Including Conche, NL – the new venue for the Centre for Textile Art at the French Shore Culture Centre.
I have purchased artwork in the past by this local Conche artist, but was greatly impressed by her newest additions displayed in the photo below:
Her work brings to life in vibrant colours the icebergs and outports. These miniature pieces of art have their own easels and can be put on display. They may remind you of a time when you saw these icebergs in person on a past visit to Rural Newfoundland & Labrador.
One can purchase these products at Stage Cove B&B and Bits-n-Pieces Cafe, Conche, NL. This business is a wonderful place to grab a cup of joe, many mouth-watering appetizers, excellent soup de jour or my favourite – a sweet dessert.
If you are fortunate enough to find yourself in Conche – please do not pass up a meal at the cafe and you too can fall in love with the talent of a local artist.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
Twitter/LiveRuralNL
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Massive Icebergs on the Loose in Goose Cove, NL – Draw Crowds
Icebergs surround the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula. They have been spotted in Conche and can be seen from Sailer Jack’s Lookout, St. Carol’s, St. Lunaire-Griqurt, L’Anse Aux Meadows, Englee, St. Anthony and Goose Cove.
I had the privilege of driving to Goose Cove, NL today. It is another picturesque Town that is not far off Route 430, a mere 8 km from St. Anthony. Although it gets much traffic, it does not see 30,000+ visitors that other attractions see. Locals know – so I encourage you to add Goose Cove, NL to your travel plans when driving the Great Northern Peninsula for your Rural Inspired Travel Experience (RITE)
Today, there is an extremely large drawing card with towering ice mountains that could be spotted from the harbour.
Here they are peeking out….
I had to get a closer look…
They were just breath-taking. On my return from the Pumley Cove Trail, I opted to take one last sneak peek of the bergs by the wintertime sleds.
There were so many wonderful photo opportunities that I’ve decided to post a second part and continue my Goose Cove Story. So hop in your car and get up to Goose Cove – before they are gone!
Live Rural NL -
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
Twitter/LiveRuralNL
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Caring for the Birds – Conche, NL
I have once again visited the sanctuary called Conche! It is one of the island’s best kept secrets that is no longer secret. Be thankful we have revealed to the world the opportunity to know the beauty that exists in this tiny town nestled at the heart of the French Shore. The 18 kms of gravel road and a little dust on your vehicle is well-worth the journey. However, I’ll save my most recent photos and share with you some from a previous trip this year that also provides a small sanctuary for the birds.
There is a Look-Out behind the French Shore Cultural Centre. A pebble trail leads you past the French Oven and outside instruction area. I believe instructional classes are held teaching various skills from the past, including French bread-making.. Most likely, the making of the bird feeders were directed just below. After carefully climbing the stairs to the Look-Out, I noticed the first colourful bird feeder. I have taken this walk several times and this was the first time these new additions were present. They are visually appealing and have attracted magnificent chirping from the birds, heightening the experience.
These small feeders are a rather small and simple addition, yet were enough to garner my attention. I thought about the beauty of design, each piece is unique. I imaged the children using their own creativity – a splash of red and a dash of blue. These young people learned several skills – woodworking, art and preservation of nature. There is value in small projects that can enhance a visitor’s experience and further build on the development of the community.
Conche certainly has several crafty artists that have cut outs of the island of Newfoundland, crabs and sea gulls posted around sheds, houses and even garbage bins. A splendid touch as you take the scenic drive. The people may be future instructors, if not presently.
Keep up the excellent work! I hope these classes continue and expand. The Live Rural NL blog wishes you every success with the opening on July 26th and of course continued operation of the French Shore Centre for Textile Art. Basket weaving does sound enticing.
If you would like to experience Conche, please contact the French Shore Historical Society @ frenchshorehs@nf.aibn.com.
One truly has to love the Life of Rural NL -
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
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News Release: The French Shore Historical Society To Launch The Centre For Textile Art
More developments in Conche, NL according to News Release:
P.O. Box 29, Conche, NL A0K 1Y0
Tele: 709-622-3500 Fax: 709-622-3510
E-mail: frenchshorehs@nf.aibn.com
For Immediate Release Contact: Joan Simmonds/Colleen McLean 709-622-3500
THE FRENCH SHORE HISTORICAL SOCIETY TO LAUNCH
THE CENTRE FOR TEXTILE ART
CONCHE, NL ———- On July 26, 2011 the French Shore Historical Society will officially open a Centre for Textile Art. The purpose of the Centre will be to encourage the art of handmade textile crafts and to promote the art and history of textile-based traditions, especially of the Northern Peninsula. The Centre will focus on the historical textile development of northern Newfoundland by acquiring, preserving and making accessible a research collection of textiles and relevant documents. It will sponsor exhibitions, conferences, symposia, oral history projects, publications, fellowships and grant funded initiatives.
Since its founding in 2000, the French Shore Historical Society has showcased textile work by craftspeople in the region, including exhibitions of hooked rugs, knitting, embroidery, and included textile objects in its permanent exhibit. It has sponsored several workshops on textile art and in 2009 added the unique French Shore Tapestry, embroidered by women from Conche, as a major part of its exhibit.
In 2010, as a foundation for developing the centre, a research project was undertaken by the French Shore Historical Society in partnership with the Port au Choix – St. Anthony Regional Council of the Rural Secretariat. The purpose of the research was to document the traditional craft skills on the Great Northern Peninsula, with particular attention to crafts using or creating textiles. An inventory of the research, done by Memorial University student Lisa Wilson, can be accessed by visiting the MUN Digital Archives Initiatives.
In the Fall of 2010 a steering committee was created and consists of:
Anne Manual – Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador
Barb Hunt- Grenfell Campus, Corner Brook
Brenda Stratton – Dept. of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
Candace Cochrane – Quebec Labrador Foundation
Denise White – Dept. of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
Gerry Pocius – Memorial University of Newfoundland
Joan Simmonds – French Shore Historical Society
Lisa Wilson – MUN Research Student
Nina Mitchelmore – Regional Planner for Rural Secretariat
Susan Furneaux – College of the North Atlantic
The French Shore Historical Society is a non-profit organization founded to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the communities of Conche , Croque, Grand Oies/St. Julien’s and Main Brook on the Northeast coast of Newfoundland. The FSHS has successfully managed many projects which have created great economic benefits, employment opportunities, and great tourism potential on the Great Northern Peninsula.
The Opening will be a Basket Weaving Workshop with Helga Gillard . Funding was provided by the International Grenfell Association through fundraising efforts of the French Shore Historical Society.
Care in Every Stitch
- Knitting at My Grandmother’s House
Knitting has been a long-lived tradition in Newfoundland & Labrador. Most people no longer have spinning wheels and wool carders to make their one homespun wool. It can be purchased and we may be headed in that direction for increase the value of our product.
My Grandmother still does some knitting, although she is spends much more time at other craftwork, which will include quilting, sewing and plastic canvas. I remember she use to crochet, as well. One afternoon, I managed to catch her knitting put down beside her bible next to her chair where one can often find her if she is not spending her day in her flower garden, vegetable garden or strawberry patch.
Knitting seems to be another rural tradition that may be on the verge of dying. My sister, my mother, my aunts and many people in the community do not knit. However, many people who have knitted a lifetime continue to do so today and are vast producers. It was a treat when my Aunt Chris (Christina) gave me two knitted pairs of stockings and a pair of vamps as a gift. They have been greatly enjoyed.
After attending a Craft Industry Development Workshop on May 19, 2011, hosted by Nordic Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with CBDC NORTIP and Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, I was able to meet other talented knitters.
One knitter in particular from the Town of Main Brook seemed quite committed to the trade. She produced some exceptional product, especially for children.
This individual loved trying different patterns and using a variety of colours. When you have a love for a craft or hobby there is opportunity to elevate hobbyists into micro-enterprises, home-based businesses or working co-operatives. It will really all depend on the craft producer or the hobbyist. Some are satisfied with small production and dis-interested in commercialization. While others may be interested in earning additional money, but not want to take on starting their own business.
I can only imagine a small child wearing this little Christening dress. There are cottage industries that can be developed on the Great Northern Peninsula. Maybe someone will become specialty producers for knitted Christening dresses and sell them at a premium. These type of ventures are happening in other parts of rural North America, where handcrafted furniture or embroidery is sold to the world. Our telecommunications highway gives us this opportunity! Unfortunately, not all areas on the Great Northern Peninsula has access to Broadband Internet, which will be a limiting factor for on-line selling for some. However, we can not let this obstacle prevent business and community development. We can work with a stakeholder that does have access to be our online broker of cultural commodities.
If you have an interest in selling your craft to the world, Live Rural NL can provide you with some advice. Drop an email to liveruralnl@gmail.com
Experience the Great Northern Peninsula -
Christopher C. Mitchelmore
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Fostering Rural Community Development Through Outdoor Murals
The Town of Flower’s Cove has been the first in the Strait of Belle Isle region to embrace outdoor art in the form of brightly colourful signs depicting local attractions. Additionally, they have posted an outdoor mural in the parking area of the White Rocks Walking Trail.
This image certainly garners attention and encourages travellers to pull-off and stop. This is an excellent form of marketing for the small town. More visitors will likely take some time to walk Marjorie Bridge, explore the Thrombolites, visit St. Barnabas “Sealskin Boot” Church, view Flower’s Island Lighthouse and stroll the waterfront. In turn, these visitors may stop to shop at one or more businesses a long the Viking Trail (Route 430) or eat at the local L & E restaurant. The Town has the opportunity to create an open-air art museum. I can envision a series of black and white paintings scattered about a vast walking area of the Town when it was known as French Island Harbour with French fishing vessels at port, the days of Rev’d. Canon John Thomas Richard, harbour front and fishing activities, logging, daily living and events of social and cultural significance.
There is much value in our rural communities posting outdoor folk art, murals and story panels. It is common in other parts of Canada and around the world. I have a few images of my travels to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and Whitehorse, Yukon.
The “Jaw”, Thanks Carolyn for informing me your very lovely hometown.
A weekend in Whitehorse! It is a pleasure to just walk around Town to see the art everywhere. Make sure you take in the Frantic Follies while you are there. Best 2.5 hours of laughter you can get for $22.50.
I have fond memories of seeing outdoor Vincent van Gogh art in Amsterdam, Tin Tin cartoons in Brussels, informative panels in Berlin, Germany; Miquelon (Territory of France) and Battle Harbour, Labrador and many interesting images and murals on my travels.
Below is a YouTube video of a mural taken place in Thunder Bay, Ontario, a city I had the opportunity to visit on my return to Rural NL.
It is quite encouraging to see the Town of Flower’s Cove embrace this means of outdoor art as it has looked at what the Town currently has, utilizing the talent and assets of community to further develop them to create sustainability.
Other Towns and Communities may wish to engage in this practise, telling stories with images, art forms and panels throughout the Great Northern Peninsula. All of these collections of oral cultures, images and artwork serves limited economic and social value if it is not shared. This is one small measure that will help build our rural regional community.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher C. Mitchelmore, liveruralnl@gmail.com
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