- by Dawna Proudman

A quick trip to Grey County today reminded me of how grateful I am that I got to live in that community for 20 years. Tanya Zaryski's show at the Durham Art Gallery is FANTASTIC. The photo doesn't come near to capturing the exquisiteness of her work. Prepare to feel entranced. The show also includes an impressive display of fabric art (inspired by many of my favourite female authors) which made me think of Marjorie Klassen's recent adventures with fabric and thread. 

I dropped off a painting to Lise Gunby where I had a quick visit with her and her amazing collection of peacocks, chickens and dogs. Then lunch by the river at The Mill Restaurant with long time friend and writer Diane Ferguson, before driving up to Harrison Park in Owen Sound for a celebration of poets who were published in the SPIKE anthology this year. My apologies to those I couldn't stay to hear read but I very much wanted to see the Rae Johnson exhibit at the Tom Thompson Art Gallery but it turns out that gallery  is not open on Sunday .... a small fly in my ointment easily recovered from since my next stop was to visit with Liz Zetlin in her lovely garden. And then a picnic supper with Suzanne Sloan.

Perfect weather for a grand outing. It sounds hectic when I write it down but each visit felt quite rich and complete and I feel very much restored.