Arts and Antiques Show explores creative history

Stonetown Heritage Festival attendees stopped in at Riverwalk Commons for the Arts and Antiques Show Saturday afternoon to peruse the pieces available for purchase from local artists and antique collectors.

By Emily Stewart

Coinciding with the Stonetown Heritage Festival, a variety of artwork was showcased at Riverwalk Commons.

Riverwalk Commons held the Arts and Antiques Show and Sale during Heritage Festival Weekend from July 24 to 25. The event featured works by Judith Williams, Old Soul General, J.A.R. Collectables and Stonetown Arts.

Williams, the featured artist, got lots of positive reception for her multimedia pieces featuring painted wool landscapes, gardens, animals and flowers. Members of Stonetown Arts showcased an array of needle-felted items, paintings, woodcarvings and glasswork.

Jean Rowcliffe of J.R. Collectibles held the pop-up with a purpose display that shared her collection of vintage items from her adventures. Melissa Barton, Nancy Bolton and Ann Watt of Old Soul General sold handmade items like tote bags, pouches, hand-appliqued shirts and denim with visible mending. Photographer Yousef Karsh gave a portrait of a young Queen Elizabeth and her corgis to fluffy social media influencer Ernie the Corgi.

“Together, the artists and antique exhibitors demonstrated how creativity has evolved over time while continuing to reflect the values, skills and stories of our community and the fascinating people who choose to make St. Marys their home,” Barton, also the owner of Riverwalk Commons, told the St. Marys Independent.

The event brought in plenty of visitors, including some travelling from England.

“It was wonderful to have the event part of the Heritage Festival celebrations. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming and full of conversation, with people connecting directly with local artists and vendors,” Barton said. “Events like this remind us how much our community values creativity, history and the people who keep those traditions alive.

As the annual St. Marys Heritage Festival honours local landmarks and heritage buildings, Barton wanted to celebrate the history of creativity and visual art.

“Events like arts shows in town provide an opportunity to recognize the talented people who continue those traditions today while inspiring future generations to appreciate and support handmade work. When we purchase locally made art or handcrafted items, we’re not just buying a product, we’re investing in our local economy, encouraging creativity and helping ensure these valuable skills continue to thrive in our community,” she said.

Riverwalk Commons will host the St. Marys Creative Retreat from Oct. 20-22, which will feature 21 workshops over seven locations. More information about the retreat and other Riverwalk events can be found online by visiting rwcommons.com.