ArtsJunktion

While I was in Winnipeg last weekend I went to a really cool little place called ArtsJunktion. They started out as a way for teachers to get art supplies, taking donations of things like old tiles from construction sites, old wallpaper sample books from paint stores, bits of fabric, buttons, etc. Basically, anything people were going to throw out but creative types can use for art.

It's expanded and anyone can go. They even offer classes, exhibitions, auctions, and are looking into getting an artist-in-residence. It's free, just walk in a load up on anything you think will come in useful. All you have to do is right down approximately how many cubic feet you saved from the landfill, using that red basket as a guide.

I got a big roll of newsprint, some fabric, an old Canadopoly board game and page from a Canadian stamp collecting book. I'm going to use those last two to make a postcard book or journal to be used when I travel.

Goin' to Winnipeg

A few years back Fountain Tire came out with a terrific commercial in which the annoying Fountain Tire guy is on a plane in a loud tropical shirt, talking excitedly to the two business men in sweaters next to him about vacationing in Hawaii. They look at him strangely and inform him this plane is destined for Winnipeg. He kind of nods, looks resigned and says "Goin' to Winnipeg." Which is what I'm doing this weekend. I packed up a few crafty things; namely, the bit of leather that is destined to cover The Tell-Tell Heart because I can embroider in the car. Not that I got very far despite the six hours of completely flat prairie (If you ever travel across Canada drive the Yellowhead through Alberta to Manitoba, it's much prettier). I blame Stephen Fry's Harry Potter audio books for that.

I forgot to take a photo before I left, of course. So, consequently, I wasn't going to post anything. However, I just made a big sale and I'm pretty excited. Four books! And some of my favourites. I'm going to miss the postcard book, it looks so nice with all of mine on display. Good thing I have an idea for another one. This is definitely the best sale I've made to date, and not having sold a painting in some time it's pretty exciting. Oh, I lie, the Caryn's Kite painting is getting sold - to Caryn no less! Beauty! And on that note, here's a bit of Winnipeg for you from local band The Weakerthans. One Great City! is the name of the song, taken from the signs welcoming you to the city.