Royal City Rag, June 19 – Guelph Symphony Orchestra And The Culture Vultures

CFRU’s Royal City Rag on June 19 was dedicated to the great Guelph arts and culture scene.

In the first hour, Simon Irving, artistic director of the Guelph Symphony Orchestra joining us to discuss the orchestra’s upcoming 10th season, 2010 – 2011. Tickets can be purchased from the River Run box office, 519-763-3000.

The orchestra is also presenting its 7th Music in the Park outdoor concert on Sunday, June 27 at the Riverside Park Bandshell, beginning at 3 p.m.

The concert, featuring a selection of light classics for the entire family, is entitled “An Afternoon at the Proms”. Expect to hear a varied selection of  the English music you might hear at a Prom concert in London. That means, everything from Elgar to the Beatles. Don’t forget to bring your own lawn chair and rug. Feel free to bring flags, costumes and funny hats!

This is the GSO’s “thank you” to the community for its continuing support. Sounds like a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. You won’t want to miss it!

Guelph Symphony Orchestra’s Music in the Park
When: Sunday June 27, 2010 at 3 p.m.
Where: Riverside Park Bandshell

Visit the Guelph Symphony Orchestra website, www.guelphorchestra.ca for more information about upcoming performances.

Listen to Hour 1:

Culture Vulture Marie Zimmerman on Royal City Rag

In the second hour, we were joined by our culture vulture Marie Zimmerman for our regular monthly chat about the Guelph art scene. This month we focused on Toronto’s Artscape and the mentoring program they are setting up for Guelph, the new Guelph Civic Square and the upcoming Art on the Street on July 17. We also included some cool music from artists appearing at this year’s Hillside Festival. Day tickets are still available for the festival and can be purchased by following the links on the festival website.

One event that we didn’t have a chance to mention is the retirement of Sally Wismer from the Guelph Arts Council after 22 years as Executive Director. To celebrate her contribution to the organization as well as the larger community, the Board of Directors is hosting an informal reception on Tuesday, June 29, 2010, at the River Run Centre, 35 Woolwich Street in Guelph.  The public is warmly invited to drop between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to share memories with Sally.  Official remarks will begin at 5.15 p.m.  An RSVP is encouraged.
 
In lieu of gifts, Sally has asked that a fund be created to support Guelph Arts Council in the years ahead.  Anyone wishing to make a contribution towards the fund can visit the Guelph Arts Council website Donations page or contact the office at 519-836-3280 or gac@sentex.net.  Forms will also be available for at the June 29 event.  All contributions are tax receiptable.

Listen to Hour 2:

Music:
Madison Violet, No Fool For Trying from No Fool For Trying
Elisa Randazzo, Can’t Afford My Peace Of Mind from Bruise And Butterflies
James Gordon, Whistlewing from My Stars Your Eyes
Elgar, Pomp and Circumstance March No 1 (Land Of Hope And Glory) London Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Davis Conductor
Elgar, Enigma Variations, No. 9 Nimrod, London Symphony Orchestra, Colin Davis Conductor
Jon Redfern, I Love The Sun from May Be Sometime
Finlay Quaye with William Orbit, Dice from The Epic Years
Grand Analog, Take It Slow (Spaces & Places) from Metropolis Is Burning
Laura Marling, What He Wrote from I Speak Because I Can
Jason Collett, Love Is A Dirty Word from Rat A Tat Tat
Stars, Fixed from The Five Ghosts

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Guelph Arts Council Historical Walking Tours 2010 – From April 25

Guelph Arts Council Historical Walking Tours 2010 – Start April 25

"The Ward" tour, June 2009 (courtesy Guelph Arts Council)

Spring is in the air these days, and that means it’s just about time for the start of Guelph Arts Council’s popular annual walking tours.  These guided tours, which are offered on selected Sundays between April 25 and October 17, trace Guelph’s heritage through its architecture, its people, and the stories that contribute to this City’s unique character.

There are normally six Guelph Arts Council walking tours, each of which explores a different area of historic Guelph, although, this year, Where Guelph Began, which encircles the original Market Square area laid out by John Galt in 1827, will not be offered because of construction and road closures in that area of the City. 

The other five  tours offered in 2010 include:

• Downtown Walkabout which covers Guelph’s current Downtown
• The Slopes of the Speed which explores the slopes of the Speed River where many of Guelph’s largest and most distinguished historic homes are located
• Altar and Hearth which covers the area west of Downtown and includes several historic stone churches and many historic homes representing a variety of architectural styles
• Brooklyn and the College Hill  which focuses on one of Guelph’s early industrial sections on the south side of the Speed River, as well as the area that developed around the Ontario Agricultural College
• Ward One Guelph  which covers the area southeast of the downtown, between the Speed and Eramosa Rivers, and features a diversity of historic architecture and the diversity of peoples who formed Guelph.

All tours start at 2 p.m. from different locations.  They take about two hours to complete and cost $3 per person. Tour booklets are available for $5 each at the Guelph Arts Council office and several other retail locations.

For other information, please contact the Guelph Arts Council office at 147 Wyndham Street North, Suite 404, Guelph, or phone (519) 836-3280; Fax (519) 766-9212; email gac@sentex.net.

 

Guelph Arts Council Historical Walking Tours 2010 

Tour I:  Where Guelph Began
This tour encircles the original Market Square area of almost twenty-four acres laid out by John Galt in 1827.  Serving as the focal point for Guelph’s early social and business life, the area also contains the sites of many of Guelph’s first buildings.
Dates:  Due to street construction and numerous road closures, this tour will not be offered during 2010.

Tour II:  Downtown Walkabout
The present downtown centre of Guelph, with its wide main street, provides a compact walking tour which includes many buildings and sites of considerable historical and architectural interest. 
Dates:  April 25, May 30, August 15, September 19                Time: 2 p.m
Starts:  Guelph Civic Museum, 6 Dublin Street South, Guelph
Cost:    $3 per person.  (Fee does NOT include admission to Guelph Museums)
 
Tour III:  The Slopes Of the Speed
This tour explores the slopes of the Speed River between Norwich and Macdonell Streets, where many of Guelph’s largest and most distinguished historic homes are located. 
Dates:  May 2, June 6, August 22, September 26               Time: 2 p.m
Starts:  Guelph Public Library, 100 Norfolk Street, Guelph
Cost:    $3 per person. 
 
Tour IV:  Altar And Hearth in Victorian Guelph
This tour provides a glimpse of the Victorian era in Guelph.  Covering the area west of Norfolk Street, between Essex Street and London Road, the tour includes several historic stone churches and many historic homes representing a variety of architectural styles.
NOTE: This tour is offered in two parts [(lower) and (upper)] on alternating dates.
Dates:  May 9 (lower), June 13 (upper), August 29 (lower), October 3 (upper)                Time: 2 p.m
Starts:  Tour (lower) Guelph Civic Museum, 6 Dublin Street South, Guelph
               Tour (upper) Guelph Public Library, 100 Norfolk Street, Guelph
Cost:    $3 per person.  (Fee does NOT include admission to Guelph Museums.)
 
Tour V:  Brooklyn And The College Hill
This tour takes participants to the south side of the Speed River to explore one of Guelph’s early industrial sections, formerly known as Brooklyn, as well as the College Hill area that developed around the Ontario Agricultural College.  The tour includes some of the city’s best examples of masonry and stone carving. 
Dates:  May 16, June 20, September 5, October 10                Time: 2 p.m
Starts:  McCrae House, 108 Water Street, Guelph
Cost:    $3 per person. (Fee does NOT include admission to Guelph Museums.)
 
Tour VI:  Ward One Guelph
This tour of the area southeast of the downtown, between the Speed and Eramosa Rivers, reveals the rich variety of historic architecture and the diversity of peoples who formed Guelph.  Particular attention is devoted to residential/industrial proximity and the city’s early Italian community.
Dates:  May 23, June 27, September 12, October 17                Time: 2 p.m
Starts:  Tytler School, Toronto Street entrance (off York Road near York Road Park)
Cost:    $3 per person.

For other information, please contact the Guelph Arts Council office at 147 Wyndham Street North, Suite 404, Guelph, or phone (519) 836-3280; Fax (519) 766-9212; email gac@sentex.net.

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Doors Open Guelph 2010 – April 24

Doors Open Guelph – Guelph’s Finest Buildings Open Their Doors For Free Public Tours

On Saturday, April 24, Guelph residents and visitors will have the opportunity to participate in the annual celebration of the City’s history and architectural heritage.  Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., several of Guelph’s finest buildings, many of which are not normally open to the public, will open their doors for free public tours.  Guided tours will be available at each site, led by knowledgeable tour guides who will talk about the site’s history and important architectural features. Guides will also pass on some of the interesting stories associated with each site.
 
A joint undertaking of Guelph Arts Council, Heritage Guelph and City of Guelph Tourism Services, Doors Open Guelph 2010 is partnering for the first time with the Guelph Hiking Club which is offering its first Trails Open Hike to coincide with Doors Open.  The Guelph event is also part of Doors Open Ontario, an Ontario Heritage Trust province-wide initiative to celebrate community heritage.  Once again, the Guelph event has the distinction of launching the Ontario Doors Open season, among the first of more than 50 such events across the province.
 
For more information about sites and tours and some tips on how best to plan and enjoy the day, pick up a Doors Open Guelph 2010 brochure at various locations around the City (e.g Visitor Information Centre, Guelph Public Library, Guelph Civic Museum) or visit the Doors Open Guelph website at www.guelpharts.ca/doorsopenguelph; or contact Guelph Arts Council by telephone at (519) 836-3280, or e-mail gac@sentex.net.

Site descriptions and images, courtesy of Guelph Arts Council

Hammond Radio Museum                                                       
595 Southgate Drive (off Laird Road)
washrooms, accessible, parking
 
Founded in 1982 by Fred Hammond, one of the founding members of Guelph’s Hammond Manufacturing, the Radio Museum houses an extensive collection of rare and historically significant pieces. 

The 2000+ items exhibited reveal the development of radio throughout the past 100 years.  Included are crystal radios, early tabletop and broadcast, early wireless, military and Amateur Radio equipment. 
 
Homewood House                                                                                         
19 Woodycrest Drive (off Waterloo Avenue)
street parking

This Italianate-style house was built c. 1855 by J.J. Kingsmill. His son, Charles Kingsmill, was the first director of the Canadian Navy which is celebrating its centennial in 2010. 

Purchased by the current owner in 1984, this house has been lovingly restored, retaining many original features such as the entrance tower, interior shutters, stained glass windows and fireplace. 
 
Wellington Brewery                                                         
950 Woodlawn Road West
washrooms, accessible, parking

The oldest independent microbrewery in Canada, Wellington Brewery was founded early in 1985.  Since then, it has grown steadily, winning local and national awards for its time-honoured, traditional beers produced in small batches, using all-natural ingredients, a lot of care and patience. 

The brewing facility and the Iron Duke House will be part of the Doors Open Guelph tour.

The Frank Hasenfratz Centre of Excellence in Manufacturing, Linamar Corporation
700 Woodlawn Road West
washrooms, accessible, parking

Opened in September 2009, this state-of-the art centre is the home of innovative product and process technology.

The focal point of learning and leadership development to create a knowledgeable collaborative community, the facility features many eco-friendly design elements such as an open concept atrium foyer, retractable skylights, extensive use of recycled materials, a reflective pond and dual living walls.
 
Ignatius Jesuit Centre                                                                      
5420 Highway 6 North
washrooms, parking
 
Arriving in Guelph in 1852, the Jesuits helped build Church of Our Lady and other local parishes before establishing a novitiate on this site in 1913. The original building, destroyed by fire in 1954, was replaced by what is now called Orchard Park Centre.

A retreat centre, organic farm, labyrinth, willow dome, stations of the cosmos and walking trails complete this bucolic 600-acre setting.
 
St. Philopateer Coptic Orthodox Church                                         
Located at Ignatius Jesuit Centre
5420 Highway 6 North
washrooms, parking
 
Originally Ignatius Great Hall in Orchard Park Centre, this space has been transformed by liturgical art into the home of St. Philopateer Coptic Orthodox Church. 

The Copts (or Egyptians) are defined as the modern sons of the Pharaohs.  Their religious background helped them to eagerly accept Christianity and enjoy its depth through their ascetic life, meditation and studying of Holy Scripture. 

 

 

 

Woodlawn Cemetery Lodge, Woodlawn Memorial Park
760 Woolwich Street
washrooms, parking
 
This 1883 Vernacular Gothic brick structure was built as the home of the Union (now Woodlawn) Cemetery keepers, and remains so to this day.

Guelph architect John Day’s design fee for the lodge, a stable, greenhouse and coach house (still in use) was $58.  Especially attractive are the original oval front doors, mouldings, trim, hand-turned banister and interior window engravings. 
 
Islamic Society of Guelph                                                                  
126 Norwich Street East
accessible, parking
 
This attractive small church of non-conformist design, incorporating classical features, was built in 1856-57 for a group of Scottish Congregationalists, and is the second oldest of Guelph’s remaining stone church buildings. 

In 1882, it was sold to the Disciples of Christ who occupied it until 2008 when it was purchased by the Islamic Society of Guelph and converted to a mosque. 
 
Canadian Pacific Caboose 436994                                                           
Located on siding close to St. George’s Church (enter off Woolwich Street)
street parking
 
Built in 1941, this wooden-body caboose served the Canadian Pacific Railway for more than 40 years.  For the past 15 years, it has been and continues to be beautifully restored by members of the Guelph Historical Railway Association.  The inside is now a railway museum on wheels, reflecting the glory days of railroading in the mid-20th century.
 
Trails Open: The Radial Line Trail and the Guelph Escarpment         
Hikes start at Eramosa River Park (Lawrence Avenue off York Road west of Victoria)
parking
 
The Radial Line Trail is one of Ontario’s first rails-to-trails projects, completed by the Guelph Hiking Trail Club in 1971 to link Guelph to the Niagara Escarpment. But Guelph has its own Escarpment within the City, with fossilized coral reefs towering over the Trail in places.  Walk the railbed of the legendary, electric Toronto Suburban Railway and visit the site of Speedwell Station. 
 
40-minute hikes every hour on the hour until 3 p.m.; more challenging 90-minute hikes at 10.30 a.m. and 1.30 p.m. Bring suitable shoes for walking and dress for the weather.

For more information about sites and tours and some tips on how best to plan and enjoy the day, pick up a Doors Open Guelph 2010 brochure at various locations around the City (e.g Visitor Information Centre, Guelph Public Library, Guelph Civic Museum) or visit the Doors Open Guelph website at www.guelpharts.ca/doorsopenguelph; or contact Guelph Arts Council by telephone at (519) 836-3280, or e-mail gac@sentex.net.

Site descriptions and images, courtesy of Guelph Arts Council

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Royal City Rag – October 3

It was another busy Royal City Rag on October 3.

In the first hour we talked to Virginia Gilham from Friends of the Guelph Public Library about their upcoming giant book sale taking place the weekend of October 24-25. You should also check out the wonderful live version of James Gordon’s Library Song, written especially for the Guelph Public Library’s 125th anniversary, a year or so ago. One of his best humorous political songs.

Later in the hour, Sally Wismer from Guelph Arts Council joined us on the phone to talk about upcoming arts events and the arts council’s new award for young artists.

In the second hour we hooked up with Ryder Ball, one of the singers taking part in Ken Whiteley’s Incredible One-Day Gospel Choir at Three Willows Church on October 4 at 7.30 p.m. Tickets are $20 advance, $25 at the door. You can buy them online at www.all-together-now.ca.

In the final half hour, we chatted with activists Matt Soltys and Sam Ansleis from the group that occupied the proposed business park site at Hanlon Creek about their decision to occupy the site, and their take on the talk of intimidation  that has dogged this issue since the occupation ended.

Don’t rush to disregard what these young activists have to say. Its too easy to write them off as immature idealists who don’t really understand the issues. Also, check out their recent editorial in the Guelph Mercury if you get a chance.

Royal City Rag will continue to follow this developing issue. There is a lot of information about the Hanlon Creek Business Park development process that has never made it out into the mainstream. We’ll endevour to bring that to you.

Music:
Cuff The Duke, Like The Morning from Way Down Here
James Gordon, The Library Song (Live/Demo)
The Acorn, Crooked Legs from Glory, Hope, Mountain
Ken Whiteley, Sing With Me from Gospel Music Makes Me Feel Alright
Billy Bragg, You Woke Up My Neighborhood from The Essential Billy Bragg
Proclaimers, I’m on My Way (Live) from Notes and Rhymes Deluxe Edition (Import)

Listen to the show:

Part 1

Part 2

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Coming Up On Royal City Rag… Wake Up… Get Coffee… Tune In To CFRU 93.3fm!

We have another packed show lined up for October 3. In the first hour of the show we’ll be talking to Virginia Gilham from Friends of the Guelph Public Library about their upcoming giant book sale taking place the weekend of October 24-25. We’ll also talk to Sally Wismer from Guelph Arts Council about some arts events to check out during October.

In the second hour we’re going to hook up with Ryder Ball, one of the singers taking part in Ken Whiteley’s Incredible One-Day Gospel Choir at Three Willows Church on October 4 at 7.30 p.m.

Ken Whiteley and The Incredible One-Day Gospel Choir
Sunday, October 4, 2009 at 7.30 p.m.
Three Willows United Church
577 Willow Road
Guelph, Ontario

TICKETS: $20 advance, $25 at the door
ON-LINE: www.all-together-now.ca
OUTLET: Ground Floor Music
13 Quebec Street, Guelph, ON, 519-827-1444

Hanlon Creek Downstream In The Spring (Photo: Bob Gordon)

Later in the second hour we’ll be chatting with activists Matt Soltys and Sam Ansleis from the group that occupied the proposed business park site at Hanlon Creek about why they decided they had to make such an overt political statement, and get their take on the talk of intimidation  that has dogged this issue since the occupation ended. Check out their recent editorial in the Guelph Mercury if you get a chance.

Royal City Rag, Saturdays from 7-9 a.m. on CFRU 93.3fm. Don’t miss it!

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Royal City Rag – September 12

Royal City Rag on September 12 had everything, one of our best ever shows. Community issues, local politics, arts, music, books… it was all there, with some fine music selections thrown in for good measure.

During the first hour we talked to Karen McKeown from Healthy Landscapes at the The City of Guelph about the Cool Communities tree rebate program.  The project is aimed at encouraging homeowners to plant trees for energy conservation.  Shade trees planted on the southern and western sides of a home can save 25–40%, and reduce peak energy demand in summer by up to 30%. By planting trees, homeowners also improve their neighbourhoods by cleaning the air, decreasing pollution, attracting pollinators, and increasing biodiversity.

The project is being launched as a pilot by Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests (LEAF), an award-winning, Toronto-based urban forest non-profit organization and is supported by both Guelph Urban Forest Friends (GUFF) and the City of Guelph. Funding has been provided by the Ontario Power Authority’s Conservation Fund. For more information on the Cool Communities project, including a list of participating nurseries, visit www.yourleaf.org/coolcommunities. The program runs from September 12-13 and September 19-20. To take advantage of the discount, and save up to $100, please visit one of the participating nurseries.

Bob Gordon joined us on the phone to provide an update on the Hanlon Creek Business Park, this week pointing out how a proposed condo development, 1291 Gordon Steet, is also raising concern amongst environmentalists because of the potentially serious impact it may have on a neighbouring wetland. Expect to hear more ab0ut 1291 Gordon Street and the continuing furore around the HCBP on upcoming shows. 

Finally, in the first hour, Jennifer, Marsaye and Wendi joined us to chat about Guelph Community Singers, who officially came to life on September 16 at the Guelph Youth Music Centre.

In the second hour, we had the first of what will be a regular chat with  Sally Wismer from Guelph Arts Council about upcoming arts events in Guelph, including Schmoozefest taking place on September 22 and their innovative FourPerformance Pass, the perfect gift, and, a great deal for anyone interested in the performing arts. 

Later in the hour, Ed, Sarah and John joined us to wax lyrically about some of the classic rock from the 70s including Fanfare the Common Man, Live and Let Die and Born to Run. 

Euphoric Flight

The event is a collaboration between the Guelph Symphony Orchestra and Euphoric Flight,  a pop-rock band formed this year from an outstanding line-up of Guelph musicians including the wonderful guitarist John Tonin.

Rockin’ with the GSO which takes place at the at John F. Ross High School’s E.L.Fox Auditorium on September 19 at 8.00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased from riverrun.ca or the River Run Centre box office at 519-763-3000. Promises to be great fun. 

We wrapped everything up with a phone chat with Drew Hayden Taylor who you can catch in the Adisokaun area at the Eden Mill’s Writers Festival on September 20.

A great show. I hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed putting it together.

Music:
Sarah Jane Morris, Mad Woman Blues from Love & Pain
Johnny Cash, What Is Truth? from The Legend
Steve Earle and The Del McCoury Band, Pilgrim from Mountain
Les Paul and Mary Ford, Chicken Reel from The Ultimate Collection
Emerson Lake and Palmer, from Fanfare For The Common Man  (Live in Montreal)  from Youtube
Billy Joel, Scenes From An Italian Restaurant from Live At Carnegie Hall 1977
Royal Wood, Don’t Fall Apart from The Lost and Found EP

Listen to the show:
Part 1

Part 2

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Guelph PerFOURmance Pass Takes To The Stage This fall

This is a terrfic idea and a great deal for anyone interested in the performing arts.

The Guelph PerFOURmance Pass brings together four local performing groups and offers four different performances for the price of three.

The Guelph Chamber Choir, Guelph Concert Band, Guelph Symphony Orchestra and Royal City Musical Productions have all come together to create the Pass, which takes the form of a voucher booklet from which one show can be selected from a list of eligible performances by each organization. The voucher can be exchanged for a ticket at River Run Centre where the Pass is on sale and where all eligible performances will take place.

Four high quality performances at the very special price of $79. 

The eligible performance dates stretch from October 25, 2009 to May 2, 2010,  with the full purchase value of the Pass in place until  late February 2010.  

Details of all eligible performances are available at guelphchamberchoir.ca, guelphorchestra.ca, guelpharts .ca/guelphconcertband , rcmpi.com, and at riverrun.ca. To purchase a Pass, call River Run Centre (519) 763-3000 or visit riverrun.ca.

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Guelph Arts Council Schmoozefest – September 22

Guelph Arts Council are holding another Schmoozefest on September 22 from 5 -7 p.m. at Guelph Little Theatre , 176 Morris Street (off York Road), Guelph.

Anyone involved or interested in the arts is invited – visual, performing, heritage or literary arts, including artists, organizations, businesses,
consumers, students and media representatives. It’s a great opportunity to network and connect, and promote various artistic endeavours. 

Those attending are encouraged to bring flyers, posters, business cards and other materials to share with fellow Schmoozers. There will also be a few 2-minute “spotlight” opportunities which can be booked in advance through the Guelph Arts Council office.   A number of individuals and groups have already signed up, representing an interesting cross-section of the arts in Guelph.

For more information or to book a spotlight, contact Guelph Arts Council at (519) 836-3280 or gac@sentex.net .

Catch Sally Wismer on CFRU 99.3fm’s Royal City Rag on September 12

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Coming Up On Royal City Rag… Phew, What A Scorcher!

We’re not talking about the weather here although September has, so far, been wonderful.

We have a packed show lined up for September 12 featuring Healthy Landscapes Karen McKeown from The City of Guelph on Cool Communities, an update on the Hanlon Creek Business Park issue with Bob Gordon and, finally, Guelph Community Singers. And that ‘s just the first hour!

In the second hour, we’ll be talking to Sally Wismer from Guelph Arts Council, Rockin’ with the GSO and, then, catching up with Drew Hayden Taylor on the Eden Mill’s Writers Festival.

Phew, what a scorcher, indeed!

Royal City Rag, Saturday 7-9 a.m. on CFRU 93.3fm. A great way to start your Saturday!

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Guelph Arts Council Walking Tours Resume On August 16

Guelph Arts Council’s guided walking tours resume on August 16, and continue each Sunday up to and including October 18.

These popular, award-winning tours trace Guelph’s heritage through the architecture, the people and the stories that help define the city for both residents and visitors. 

The program is made possible thanks to support from the Downtown Guelph Business Association.

There are six Guelph Arts Council walking tours, each of which explores a different area of historic Guelph. 

• Where Guelph Began encircles the original Market Square area of almost twenty-four acres laid out by John Galt in 1827, and includes the sites of many of Guelph’s first buildings.
• Downtown Walkabout covers Guelph’s current Downtown.
• The Slopes of the Speed explores the slopes of the Speed River where many of Guelph’s largest and most distinguished historic homes are located. 
• Altar and Hearth (offered in two sections – upper and lower – on alternating Sundays) covers the area west of Downtown and includes several historic stone churches and homes representing a variety of architectural styles.
• Brooklyn and the College Hill focuses on one of Guelph’s early industrial sections on the south side of the Speed River, as well as the area that developed around the Ontario Agricultural College.
• Ward One Guelph. New this year, Ward One Guelph covers the area southeast of the downtown, between the Speed and Eramosa Rivers, and features a diversity of historic architecture and the diversity of peoples who formed Guelph.

All tours take about two hours to complete and cost $3 per person.  Tour booklets are available for $5 each from the tour guides, the Guelph Arts Council office and several other retail locations. 

For tour dates, departure location or other information, please contact the Guelph Arts Council office at 147 Wyndham Street North, Suite 404, Guelph, phone (519) 836-3280, e-mail gac@sentex.net, or check out the Council’s website at www.guelpharts.ca/guelphartscouncil.

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Guelph Arts Council Artist Relief Fund

Guelph Arts Council is pleased to announce that the criteria and application process for the Artist Relief Fund have now been established to provide short-term financial assistance to local artists living with debilitating health issues.

In order to be eligible for assistance through the Guelph Arts Council Artist Relief Fund, applicants must be professional artists living in Guelph or Wellington County and earning their primary income through their artistic endeavours.  Applications will be received and reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Guelph Arts Council Artist Relief Fund Committee, with the prime criterion being the need for funds rather than the quality of artwork.

The amount awarded each year will be dependent on the number of applicants, the specific needs of each eligible artist and the amount of money available.  The maximum amount available for each individual application is $500.

The creation of the Guelph Arts Council Artist Relief Fund in 2008 was in response to a growing realization of the plight of self-employed artists whose health leaves them unable to work and, unfortunately, also unable to collect unemployment insurance or other government benefits.  The emergency financial assistance provided through this fund is made possible by donations that Guelph Arts Council receives throughout the year.

Guidelines and application forms as well as a comprehensive list of additional resources are available from the Guelph Arts Council office or can be downloaded here.

Visit Guelph Arts Council online at www.guelpharts.ca.

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Historical Walking Tours 2009

Guelph Arts Council historical walking tours of Guelph’s historic core area are scheduled on selected Sundays, April through October.

• Tour I: Where Guelph Began: This tour encircles the original Market Square area of almost twenty-four acres laid out by John Galt in 1827. Serving as the focal point for Guelph’s early social and business life, the area also contains the sites of many of Guelph’s first buildings.
  Dates: April 26, May 31, August 16, September 20
  Time:  2 p.m.
  Starts: Guelph Civic Museum, 6 Dublin Street South, Guelph
  Cost:   $3 per person. (Fee does NOT include admission to Guelph Museums.)
• Tour II: Downtown Walkabout: The present downtown centre of Guelph, with its wide main street, provides a compact walking tour which includes many buildings and sites of considerable historical and architectural interest.
  Dates: May 3, June 7, August 23, September 27
  Time:  2 p.m.
  Starts: Guelph Civic Museum, 6 Dublin Street South, Guelph
  Cost:   $3 per person. (Fee does NOT include admission to Guelph Museums.)
• Tour III: The Slopes of the Speed: This tour explores the slopes of the Speed River between Norwich and Macdonell Streets, where many of Guelph’s largest and most distinguished historic homes are located.
  Dates: May 10, June 14, August 30, October 4
  Time:  2 p.m.
  Starts: Guelph Public Library, 100 Norfolk Street, Guelph
  Cost:   $3 per person.
• Tour IV: Altar and Hearth in Victorian Guelph: This tour provides a glimpse of the Victorian era in Guelph. Covering the area west of Norfolk Street, between Essex Street and London Road, the tour includes several historic stone churches and many historic homes representing a variety of architectural styles.
  NOTE: This tour is offered in two parts [(lower) and (upper)] on alternating dates.
  Dates: May 17 (lower), June 21 (upper), September 6 (upper), October 11 (lower)
  Time:  2 p.m.
  Starts: Lower:  Guelph Civic Museum, 6 Dublin Street South, Guelph; Upper: Guelph Public Library, 100 Norfolk Street, Guelph
  Cost:   $3 per person. (Fee does NOT include admission to Guelph Museums.)
• Tour V: Brooklyn and the College Hill: This tour takes participants to the south side of the Speed River to explore one of Guelph’s early industrial sections, formerly known as Brooklyn, as well as the College Hill area that developed around the Ontario Agricultural College. The tour includes some of the city’s best examples of masonry and stone carving.
  Dates: May 24, September 13 at
  Time: 2 p.m.
  Starts: McCrae House, 108 Water Street, Guelph
  Cost:  $3 per person. (Fee does NOT include admission to Guelph Museums.)
• Tour VI: Ward One Guelph (NEW TOUR): This tour of the area southeast of the downtown, between the Speed and Eramosa Rivers, reveals the rich variety of historic architecture and the diversity of peoples who formed Guelph.  Particular attention is devoted to residential/industrial proximity and the city’s early Italian community. 
  Dates: June 28, October 18
  Time:  2 p.m.
  Starts: Tytler School, Toronto Street entrance (off York Road near York Road Park), Guelph
  Cost:   $3 per person.  

Walking tour booklets are available, at $5 each, for all tours either from the tour guides or from the Guelph Arts Council office.

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Doors Open Guelph 2009 – April 25

On April 25 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. you are invited to step inside some of Guelph’s finest heritage buildings, many of which are not normally open to the public. Once again, owners and managers of public buildings, churches, businesses and private homes have generously agreed to “open their doors” for guided tours.

No registration is required, and it’s free!

A joint undertaking of Guelph Arts Council, Heritage Guelph and City of Guelph Tourism, Doors Open Guelph 2009 is also part of part of Doors Open Ontario, an Ontario Heritage Trust province-wide initiative to celebrate community heritage. The Guelph event has the distinction of being the first in some 50 Doors Open events taking place across Ontario during 2009. Join us to celebrate and increase awareness of this city’s tremendously rich architectural and historical heritage.

Sites for 2009:

Bikram’s Yoga College of India Studio
126 Woolwich Street
street parking or city lots

This serene space, formerly concrete fur storage, is now a hot yoga studio and event space with a roof-top patio.  Its rough limestone walls and original maple floor joists are enhanced with subtle lighting and natural elements like river stones.  Rough Muskoka hemlock pillars form supporting beams in the change rooms. The original ashlar limestone walls with arched window openings have been revealed at the back of the studio.

Alma Gallery
133 Wyndham Street North
washrooms/accessible/street parking or city lots

Located in the historic Alma Block (1868), this vibrant contemporary art gallery opened in 2008.  It offers changing exhibitions featuring a diversity of fine art work produced by artists from the region and beyond.  For Doors Open Guelph 2009, the gallery is presenting a special exhibition highlighting significant Guelph architecture as seen through the eyes of local artists working in different media.

New City Hall
1 Carden Street
washrooms/accessible/street parking or city lots

Just completed, Guelph’s New City Hall is a fine example of balance and harmony between new architecture and old.  In addition to much-needed new office and program spaces, the building incorporates both the restored Provincial Winter Fair heritage wall (1900) as part of the front façade, and the old Fire Hall as an anchor for the northwest corner of the new structure.

Hastings House
120 Northumberland Street
street parking or city lots

This Neo-Classical Vernacular two-storey limestone house was built c. 1875, although its deeds can be traced back to the Canada Company and Guelph’s beginnings. For many years, the house was owned by George Hastings (Guelph mayor 1909-10) and family.  It was purchased by the current owners in 1989, and carefully restored, including such features as the wooden soffits and fascia.

The Boathouse
116 Gordon Street
washrooms/accessible/parking

Built c.1930, this building features elements of pavilion-style architecture, with its upturned eaves and wooden brackets. The site on which it is located has a long association with the river, including a boat rental operation under the proprietorship of members of opera singer’s Edward Johnson’s family.  In 1997, through a public/private partnership, the building was renovated for use as an ice-cream parlour.

St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church
115 York Road
washrooms/parking

In 1952 a group of dedicated individuals bought land for a Guelph Ukrainian Catholic church which was subsequently constructed 1954-1963 to the designs of Toronto architect Ewhen Gren. Nine patrons and an active congregation have ensured the growth and prosperity of the parish.  The three onion domes are a local landmark, and the liturgical art of iconography beautifies the interior.

Guelph Little Theatre
176 Morris Street
washrooms/accessible/parking

This building represents the redevelopment of a former manufacturing business into a community theatre. Begun in 1997, the conversion, carried out largely by volunteers, has provided Guelph Little Theatre with a 288-seat auditorium for the mounting of its theatrical productions as well as a workshop for the building and storing of set materials, a costume room, and a lobby for welcoming patrons.

Westminster-St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church
206 Victoria Road North
washrooms/accessible/parking

Designed by local architect Richard Pagani, the graceful sanctuary of this church is a product of the 1950s-60s infatuation with custom-shaped, laminated-wood roof beams.  In 2003, another local architect, J. David McAuley, complemented the concave curves of the sanctuary roof in his design for a handsome addition, roofed with convex curves.

Guelph Correctional Centre
785 York Road
accessible/parking

When it was built as the Provincial Penitentiary in 1909, this facility was regarded as the best  equipped gaol in Canada. Architect John Lyle chose a restrained form of Classicism for the building. Above the front door is a carved relief of the scales of justice. The correctional centre was closed in 2005(?), and will become part of Guelph’s York Lands redevelopment.

Tiger Boys Museum
Guelph Airpark, Skyway Drive (off York Road)
parking

Established in 1970 by two Canadian aviation enthusiasts (the “Tiger Boys”), this informal, private aircraft museum features several meticulously-restored De Havilland Tiger Moth and Fleet Finch aircraft, both of which were used extensively for training during World War II.  There are 32 vintage aircraft, a myriad of aviation artifacts, and numerous model aircraft at this  unique site in Guelph Airpark (1954).

Text and images courtesy of the Guelph Arts Council

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Royal City Rag – April 8

The Culture Vultures, Lynn and Daniel, were back in the studio for our monthly trip around the Guelph arts and cultural scene. As always, there is a lot going on. We’ve tried to cover as many of the events as possible and have including the major event links below.

 

Daniel’s Picks:

• Spark of Brilliance Choir performance – Apr 13
• Doors Open Guelph 2009 – April 25
• AIDS Committee of Guelph-Wellington Red Ribbon gala and Art Auction – April 25
• Guelph Creative Arts Association, Spring “Made for You” Art & Craft Show – April 25
• Guelph Arts Council Walking Tours – Start on April 26
• Storytelling at the Boathouse – 2nd Wednesday of the month until December

 

Lynn’s Picks:

• Guelph Jazz Festival Sounds Provocative Art Auction, E-Bar – April 17
• Doors Open Guelph – April 24
• Still Standing, Significant Architecture in Guelph & Region, Alma Gallery
• Curator’s Choice: Treasures from Local Museums, Archives & Art Galleries, Guelph Civic Museum – Until September 27
• Village People, River Run Centre – April 30
• Ed Video courses

Jan’s Picks:

• Community arts brain storming meeting, 10 Carden St – April 14
• Martin Sexton at War Memorial Hall, University of Guelph, $25 – April 17
• Spoken word and Latin music – April 17
• Sam Turton and Jane Lewis Community Singalong – April 17
  Bon Appetit, 259 Grange Road, Unit 6, Guelph (Plaza at Victoria & Grange by Planet Bean), 519-515-0522
  Hosted by Sam Turton & Jane Lewis with songbooks so you can join in!
  Singalong website: www.all-together-now.ca
• Eliza Gilkyson, Riverview, 5 Queen Street, Guelph – April 24 at 8.00 p.m.
  Limited seating. Tickets available at Thomas Entertainment, 60 Baker St, Guelph, 519-822-1451
• Mary Gauthier, Riverview, 5 Queen St, Guelph – April 25 at 8.00 p.m.
  Limited seating. Tickets available at Thomas Entertainment, 60 Baker St, Guelph, 519-822-1451
• The James Gordon Pipe Street Songbook launch, 10 Carden St – April 26

Music:
James Gordon, Weapons Of Mass Instruction from Endomusia
Martin Sexton, Glory Bound from Black Sheep
Eliza Gilkyson, Emerald Street from Beautiful World

Listen to the show:

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Coming Up On Royal City Rag – The Culture Vultures

Join us on March 4 for our monthly trip around the Guelph art scene with the Culture Vultures.

As always, there is a lot going on in Guelph.

This week we are pleased to welcome a new Culture Vulture, Lynn Broughton, to Royal City Rag!

Join Lynn, Daniel and myself, Wednesday March 4 from 6-7 p.m. on CFRU 93.3fm, Guelph’s Campus Community Radio Station.

Listen live on CFRU 93.3fm or after the fact via the website or CFRU archive.

Promises to be lots of fun.

Jan Andrea Hall

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Draw for Guelph Arts Council’s Fête Romantique – January 29

There are still a few tickets left but time is running out for anyone wanting to get tickets for Guelph Arts Council’s popular Fête Romantique fundraiser.

The draw to decide the winners of the Grand-Prize elegant dinner for six and 30 other fabulous prizes will take place on Thursday, January 29, 2009, 4:30 p.m. , at the Guelph Arts Council office.

The public is warmly invited to attend.

Presented on Valentine’s Day, the much-sought after Grand-Prize elegant dinner for six will be co-ordinated by Platters Catering and served by members of Guelph Arts Council in one of the area’s wonderful heritage homes. A chauffeur-driven limousine will transport the lucky winner and guests to the dinner site.

The funds raised by Fête Romantique are an essential part of Guelph Arts Council’s annual budget, ensuring the continuation of its trademark services and programs in support of arts and heritage in the Guelph area.

Fête Romantique tickets cost $15 each or 2 for $25, and are available from GAC board members or at the following locations:

• Framing and Art Centres – 987 Gordon Street and 30 Carden Street
• Surroundings, 27 Macdonell  Street North
• Guelph Artisans store in Old Quebec Street, 55 Wyndham Street North
• Guelph Arts Council office, 147 Wyndham Street North suite 404

Please contact Guelph Arts Council at 519-836-3280, gac@sentex.net or visit guelpharts.ca/guelphartscouncil for more details.

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Royal City Rag, October 15 2008 – The Guelph Studio Tour

The Guelph Studio Tour show.

The 23rd Guelph Studio Tour takes place the weekend of October 17-19 2008. The studio tour features a collective of artists with studio and exhibition spaces in and around downtown Guelph.

The show featured great interviews with three of the artists on the tour; painter Josef Kratochvil, woodworker David Atkinson and artist blacksmith Graeme Sheffield.

THE 23rd GUELPH STUDIO TOUR EXHIBITION WEEKEND
OCTOBER 17 – 19, 2008
Friday: 7-9 p.m.
Saturday: 10 am – 6 p.m.
Sunday: 11 am – 5 p.m. 

The 23rd Annual Studio Tour Group Show “Guelph and the 100 Mile Diet” is at the Guelph Civic Museum through October 26, 2008.

Visit the Guelph Studio Tour website to learn more about the tour and the artists involved.

Music:
10 c.c. – Art For Art’s Sake from How Dare You?
David Lanz – Painting The Sun from Painting The Sun
Tanya Davis – Art from Gorgeous Morning

The audio for this show is no longer available on the website.  If however you wish to hear it again, please contact us at info@royalcityrag.ca. Thank You.

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Guelph Studio Tour, October 17-19

The 23rd Guelph Studio Tour takes place the weekend of October 17-19 2008.

The studio tour features a collective of artists with studio and exhibition spaces in and around downtown Guelph.

Join us on Royal City Rag on October 15 to learn more about the tour and the artists involved.

THE 2008 EXHIBITION WEEKEND – OUR 23rd ANNIVERSARY
OCTOBER 17 – 19, 2008
Friday: 7-9 p.m.
Saturday: 10 am – 6 p.m.
Sunday: 11 am – 5 p.m. 

The 23rd Annual Studio Tour Group Show “Guelph and the 100 Mile Diet” is at the Guelph Civic Museum through October 26, 2008.

You can visit the Guelph Studio Tour website to learn more about the tour and the artists involved.

The submission deadline for new artists for the The 2009 (24th annual) Studio Tour is January 31, 2009.

Submissions can be sent to:
The Guelph Arts Council Office
147 Wyndham St. N.,
Guelph, ON N1H 4E9

Or contact David Atkinson at 519-824-0974 

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Guelph Arts Council Artist Relief Fund

This is great news!

 

As part of the very successful fundraiser for Guelph artist Sue Richards on September 13, 2008, Guelph Arts Council announced that it is in the process of establishing the Guelph Arts Council Artist Relief Fund to assist local artists who are dealing with debilitating health issues.

 

The creation of this fund is in response to a growing community realization of the plight of self-employed artists whose health can leave them unable to work and, unfortunately, also unable to collect employment insurance or other government benefits.  For some time, Guelph Arts Council, in its role as a resource to and advocate for artists in the Guelph area, has been exploring opportunities to provide emergency financial assistance to artists who find themselves in this unenviable position.

 

Now, thanks to a recent anonymous donation, Guelph Arts Council is able to move forward on this initiative.  A partnership is being established with The Guelph Community Foundation who will manage the fund, and detailed criteria are being developed.  Eventually, the annual interest from this fund will be used to make awards.

 

At the September 13 event, Guelph Arts Council Executive Director Sally Wismer noted that it would take some time to build up the fund to the point where enough interest will be generated.  She added that the Council “will be looking for donations to ensure that we can increase the fund as quickly as possible.”

 

Anyone interested in making a donation or obtaining more information should contact Guelph Arts Council at 519-836-3280 or gac@sentex.net.  For more information about Guelph Arts Council and its role in the community, visit www.guelpharts.ca/guelphartscouncil.

 

Kudos to the Guelph Arts Council for setting this up.

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Fall Arts Schmoozefest… Nothing to do with the election

Fall Arts Schmoozefest …

They are labelling this as a schmoozefest not a schnoozefest.

Its nothing to do with the forthcoming general election which, this year, with all the Elizabeth May Debate exclusion schenanigans can hardly be called a schnoozefest…

With the advent of September comes Guelph Arts Council’s Fall Arts Schmoozefest. Scheduled for Tuesday,  September 23, 2008 , this popular Guelph Arts Council event takes place at The Bookshelf Greenroom, 41 Quebec Street, in downtown Guelph. Gathering time is 5 to 7 p.m.

Anyone involved or interested in the arts is invited — visual, performing, heritage or literary arts, including artists, organizations, businesses, consumers, students and media representatives. It’s a great opportunity to network and connect, and promote various artistic endeavours.

Those attending are encouraged to bring flyers, posters, business cards and other materials to share with fellow Schmoozers. There will also be a few 2-minute “spotlight” opportunities which can be booked in advance through the Guelph Arts Council office.  A number of individuals and groups have already signed up, representing an interesting cross-section of the arts in Guelph.

For more information or to book a spotlight, contact Guelph Arts Council at (519) 836-3280 or gac@sentex.net.

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Guelph Arts Council: spOtlight on the Arts – June 6-8

Guelph Arts Council are offering a Virtual Open House this coming weekend as part of the spOtlight: Celebrate Our Artists Weekend, June 6 to 8, 2008

Anyone interested in learning more about the arts and heritage scene in Guelph and Wellington County is warmly invited to visit www.guelpharts.ca or www.wellingtonarts.ca.

Discover the more than 150 artists and arts groups who are featured on the site; check out upcoming arts and heritage events; see what’s making news on the cultural scene in this region.

Find out why close to 10,000 unique visitors are visiting this website every month, and, at the same time, join in the celebration of the diversity and breadth of artistic output and accomplishments in Guelph and Wellington County.

This first-ever spOtlight: Celebrate Our Artists Weekend is taking place in Cambridge, Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo and Stratford. An initiative of the Ontario Ministry of Culture and produced by Ontario Arts Council, the festival will feature more than 100 free activities in the region.

For more information about the spOtlight weekend, look for a copy of the 20-page spOtlight: official festival guide at the Guelph Arts Council office, 147 Wyndham Street, Suite 404, Guelph or call (519) 836-3280.

You can also visit www.guelpharts.ca or www.wellingtonarts.ca and www.spotlightfestival.ca.

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