Thursday, July 31, 2008

First Impression: Couldn't We Be, Phoenix Theatre, Toronto

First Impression: Couldn't We Be, Phoenix Theatre, TorontoFirst Impression: Couldn't We Be, Phoenix Theatre
A Play by Vladimir Milman; Directed by Art Babayants; Phoenix Cultural Diversity Theatre
July 26-27, 2008; Palmerston Library Theatre; Toronto, ON, Canada

Couldn't We Be
Drama (and ballroom dance): She is well-settled, 19. He is 40, no prospects for the future... Couldn't we be: two artistic maverick souls....
The plot of the play is based on a true story: two artistic souls run across each other in the contemporary world of pragmatic indifference. She is the only child of two well-settled and practically oriented parents, who have anticipated a certain life path for her, while he is a 40 years old recent newcomer to Canada, an actor with poor English and no prospects for the future. As the story develops, we can see where this takes the two maverick souls.
Couldn’t We Be

Anyone who has experienced immigration knows that it is not easy. The culture shock, language barrier, unemployment are only a few obstacles ready for a fresh immigrant. And if a newcomer is gifted and aiming for success it is often a tragedy when the great expectations aren’t met. The play "Couldn’t We Be" by Vladimir Milman presents a drama of a Russian immigrant actor that struggles to stay true to his art despite the adversity of life in an alien environment. In his search for accomplishment and creation, he sacrifices everything he holds dear, his country, his family and his love for one purpose; and that purpose is devotion to life even when it’s gone.

In the play the work of an artist is a desire to live passionately and Vikenty Varchuk is an actor who came out of obscure poverty in Ukraine and rose to stardom as an actor in Moscow, hoping to conquer the rest of the world he decides to come to Toronto. But here, at his late age and in foreign culture, he faces what many immigrants go through, he is not needed; he lives on the street and has only one activity – teaching dance to a very young woman named Julia, who is also of Russian descent. What transpires is a meeting of different generations of immigration - one Russian, that has just arrived and another that is culturally Canadian and yet spiritually Russian.

The age difference, religious backgrounds and outlooks on life are presented in lively and humorous scenes. Julia’s parents portrayed a Russian Canadian family native to Toronto with Ukrainian background and Jewish heritage. Even though Vikenty is accepted by the family and is loved by Julia, he is different; Julia has a gift of an actress - the love of life, and Vikenty wants to achieve perfection and yet is completely alone. In Toronto he is not known and the problem is how Julia and he could be together. This is a story of true love, true art and it is also a true story.

The actors conveyed emotions very naturally with pathos and heart. Jane Milman was very passionate and spirited in her expressions and danced beautifully. She was particularly honest in showing Julia’s emotions, and excitement about life. Marie Carriere Gleason was wild playing Julia’s eccentric mother, throwing tantrums and fits, many mothers can be associated with this character. Philip Soiffer portrayed a calm, understanding and wise father figure; he was a vital contrast to Julia’s mother. Peter Nelson was genuinely Russian in his portrayal of Vikenty and the Russian condition: "I expressed what is truly inside Vikenty’s heart, which is loneliness," says Peter Nelson.

There are great dances and music in the play, the director is Art Babayants. He has recently come from Moscow where he has his own musical theatre. 'Couldn’t we be' is his first dramatic production in Toronto of Vladimir Milman’s play. It is also the first time that the play is performed in English by Canadian actors. It is performed on July 27-28 at Palmerston Library Theatre. "I care for struggling artists that have to find ways to survive for the sake of art, which is why I wanted to show the story of an artist Vikenty," says Art Babayants.

Vladimir Milman dedicated the story to Leonid Grill.

2008 © Anya

links:
Phoenix Theatre New Production: Couldn't We Be
livewithculture.ca: Couldn't We Be

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Toronto Junction Arts Festival 2008 Website Launched!


The JAF 2008 has unveiled on July 24, 2008, an extensive new web site. Congratulations to the festival staff.
The main streamlines of the JUNCTIONARTSFEST 2008 are junction centennial ~ nostalgic cinema ~ historic city ~ historic mind ~ modern eye ~ street performance art ~ live stages ~ visual art ~ green village ~ kidzone.

The programming for this year's festival is in the final stages of development. In the interim please review the press release highlighting notable performances you can expect in September.

For applications that are still open, such as Green Village and Street Vendors, please go here.

Check out what is new this year!

JUNCTION ARTS FESTIVAL
September 3 to 7, 2008

Live Stage
Five-time Juno winning Canadian recording artist David Usher headlines the 2008 Junction Arts Festival: September 6 at 10pm

Juried Art Exhibition
The Visual Art Exhibits ignite the party: Beginning September 3

Junction Galleries

Installation Art

Street Performances

Green Village
The 2008 Junction Arts Festival Centennial Edition is pleased to announce its Green Village focus - HOME GREEN HOME.

Hands-On KIDZONE
The KidZone: The Junction Arts Festival welcomes the Art Gallery of Ontario (A-GO team), September 6 & 7

Historic City
The Historic City: Happy 100th to the Junction, September 6 & 7

How to Find JAF...

Toronto Junction's Rich Living Exposition of Art: the Local Option

Junction Local Option: Artist Nathan Stroud presented his work 'The Dream in High Park'The 'Junction City' Centennial Event: the Local Option Art Awards Tour
Artist: Nathan Stroud
Junction Theme: "The Dream in High Park"
Vote for Your Favourite Artists: 20 venues, 27 artists, last day - Sunday, September 7, 2008

"The blue wall at The Athens House of Beauty looks like it was made for Nathan Stroud's work 'The Dream in High Park'."
~ cr
As the Art of the Junction project continues we bring you updates and news items on activities happening at the different locations.

Guilding Adam and Eve for the Dream in the Park

The Local Option Art Awards has created some wonderful vignettes of cultural history in the Junction as part of the Centennial Celebrations.

Vera Litynsky's painting for the Organic Beet created the smiles that set the tone for this element of the Centennial Celebrations.

Darleen Adams of the Hair Lounge phoned to ask if Filip Matouina might like to show more of his work there. She had already had someone inquire about buying his original entry.

Some businesses have chosen to sponsor and artists are showing a number of pieces by the same artist. In a trade deal at Pascal's Bakery and Baguette, Nathan Stroud acquired a sheaf of gold leaf in exchange for a children's colouring book called "Peace to Colour, Draw and Sing" to which he is a contributing artist. The gold leaf will be applied to his painting of Adam and Eve (playing Titania and Bottom) on display at The Athens House of Beauty.

Several artists in this project have received offers for their work and there have already been a few sales. The West Toronto Junction Historical Society is pleased to have provided the opportunity to create these blossoms of cultural identity.

Bonnie McKenzies' painting at the West End Holistic Centre tells a wonderful story about a parrot: how something so exotic can be so inherently part of the spirit of the place is reassuring.

Olga Weiczorek's sculpture in the Relax Shack is a very complimentary relationship between art and business.

Dionne Goyette's painting is shown in a perfect niche at Taylor's Shoes.

Alan Fergusons' Junction Raider and Lisa Kristine's piece, Train of Thought at the Early Years Centre are proving to be favorites.

Ballots are available at all locations.

Cara Reeves, WTJHSCC

Please visit WTJHS.ca or Latitude 44 for a list of participating businesses.

links:
Vital Links Between Arts and Business: Toronto Junction Local Option
Explore the Local Toronto Art Scene and Vote for Your Favourite Artist

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Phoenix Theatre New Production: Couldnʼt We Be

Poster: Couldnʼt We Be: true love...true art...true story: New Production of PHOENIX TheatrePoster: New Production of "PHOENIX - Cultural Diversity Theatre" Couldnʼt We Be
true love...true art...true story
Dear Friends,

I am happy to invite you to the new production of "PHOENIX - Cultural Diversity Theatre" called Couldnʼt We Be.
I'm co-producing it with Peter Nelson, a member of Canadian Actorsʼ Equity Association, and I will be very pleased to see you there.

The plot is based on a true story: two artistic souls run across each other in the contemporary world of pragmatic indifference. Only she is the only child of two well-settled and practically oriented parents, who have anticipated a certain life path for her, while he is a 40 years old recent newcomer to Canada, an actor with poor English and no prospects for the future.

Come and see where it takes the two maverick souls and how the story ends.

Written by: Vladimir Milman (Toronto, Canada)
Directed by: Art Babayants (Moscow, Russia)
Starring: Marie Carriere Gleason, Jane Milman, Peter Nelson and Philip Soiffer

Dates/Times: Saturday, July 26 at 4 and 7 PM;
Sunday, July 27 at 2 (PWYC) and 6 PM

Location: Palmerston Library Theatre
560 Palmerston Avenue, Toronto, ON
in front of the Bathurst Subway station (exit to Markham road)
Municipal parking is available.

Tickets: $20, students/seniors - $15;
can be ordered in advanced and/or picked up at the door

See you there.

Yours,

Vladimir Milman
Information:
416-978-1671
416-633-7720
vmilman@oisa.utoronto.ca

Saturday, July 26, 2008

Toronto Junction is a Great Place to Experience the Mobile Art at the Troubadour

Portable Gallery Project, the Troubadour, Junction,Creative by artjunction.blogspot.comScreenshot + Photos of PGP: Portable Gallery Project
+ Creative by artjunction.blogspot.com
Credit: portablegalleryproject.com

One more gallery was open in the Junction on July the 7th. Google them as a 'portable gallery projects olga korper' query, and s'il vous plait the portablegalleryproject[dot]com is here. Go mobile with arts and culture and get your experience with a portable art gallery.
To the Ethers
recent works by David Bender

A series created from selected samples of recycled wood. The unique patters of the grain are framed and presented as paintings.

Monday, July 7th - Friday, August 15th 2008

Opening reception:
Saturday, July 26th, 2008

Time: 6:00-9:00

Where: THE TROUBADOUR
3071 Dundas St. West
Toronto, ON, Canada

"As a culture we love wood immensely; the consumption of our forests for this love is insatiable."
~ David Bender on ideas behind "To The Ethers"

PGP Olga Korper Edition
1/4” re-creation of the Olga Korper Gallery located in the west end of Toronto. PGP’s version is contained within a 10x15” traveling case.

Information:
647-228-2366
info@portablegalleryproject.com

Comment Puis-je Arriver au La pointe de Bâby? Location, Location, Location

Heritage Toronto Walks: Baby Point, screenshot of spacing torontoScreenshot of Spacing Toronto: Heritage Toronto Walks: Baby Point
Credit: Spacing Toronto

In a compliment to the Nabob's Retreat tour we have another walking treat today, Bâby Point (prounounced 'Babby'). Heritage Toronto Neighbourhood Walks gives us a free tour of Baby Point - 10, 000 Years of History. La pointe de Bâby is just around the corner!

Bâby Point: 10,000 Years of History


Saturday, July 26 - 1:30 PM

Explore some of Toronto's First Nations and French history with this tour of the area named after the estate of James Bâby, an early French settler. Hear about the Seneca village of Teiaiagon, the Carrying Place trail and the first French fort in what is now Toronto.
Tours will be offered in English and French.

LEADERS: La Société d'histoire de Toronto
START POINT: SW corner of Jane St and Bâby Point Road /Annette Street
FINISH POINT: Near Old Mill Subway Station
LENGTH: Approx. 2 - 2 ½ hours
FOCUS: Historical, natural, architectural
DIFFICULTY: Long walk with slopes, many stairs and some rough ground

Info: 416-338-1338 or www.heritagetoronto.org

Visite:
Samedi 26 Juillet 2008 – Nos lieux de mémoire

Nos lieux de mémoire : visite guidée gratuite à Bâby Point et les forts français. Samedi 26 juillet. Départ à 13h30 au coin Jane et Baby Point Road.

Le patrimoine de la pointe Bâby est un des plus riches au Canada. Au cours des quatre derniers siècles, cette région fut à la fois un lieu d’habitation, de passage et de commerce pour les Sénécas (Iroquois), les Mississaugas (Ojibway), les Français puis les Anglais.

Contact : info@sht.ca

Découvrir leur histoire, reconnaître leur architecture et apprécier leur ambiance.
Bon voyage!

Nabob's Retreat: Final Two Weeks of Toronto Junction Summer Walking Tours

Photos by Olena Sullivan from the Heritage Toronto Neighbourhood Walk:
West Toronto Junction

Credit: Heritage Toronto

The title "Nabob" was a corruption of the native appellation nawab (official rank-holder in the Mughal occupational and social hierarchy). It was used to address a type of British gentleman living in the subcontinent in the 18th and 19th century known for his unequivocal love for the native aristocratic lifestyle, and who adopted some indigenous mores alien to the British cultural context.
Credit: highbeam.com, from Marg, A Magazine of the Arts, by Sharma, Jyoti P.

Take a free tour "Nabob’s Retreat" an odyssey through wealth and power in the Junction
Saturday, 1:30 p.m.
Meet at the Junction City Square & Train Platform
2960 Dundas Street West at Pacific Avenue, after the Mariachi Guadalajara Band performance at the Summer Concerts in the Junction series.
WEST TORONTO JUNCTION HISTORICAL SOCIETY
CENTENNIAL SUMMER WALKING TOURS -- FINAL TWO WEEKS:
NABOB’S RETREAT

Saturday, July 26, and August 2, 1:30 pm, leaving the recreated railway station at Pacific and Dundas, the West Toronto Junction Historical Society presents "Nabob’s Retreat" an odyssey through wealth and power in the Junction.

The walking tour leaves the station by Vine Avenue, hits the commercial strip on Dundas, passes the site of “Historic City” at this year’s Junction Arts Festival, stops by Martin’s Flowers, the oldest business in the Junction, visits Malta Village and strolls down Clendenan Avenue toward the architectural splendour of Nabob’s Retreat (Evelyn Crescent, Evelyn Avenue and Woodside.)

Our host, once again, is Junction journalist AB Rice, with the personal tale of his home on Clendenan Ave., his life, his family and his reporter’s eye on the lives of the Junction tycoons. He is joined by among others Dr. John Taylor Gilmour, A.B.’s boss.

Highlights include:

[V] Avenue Hotel
Where they closed the bars and the site of "Historic City" and
Boom Times Cabaret, Heart of the Junction Talk Show
[V] Martin’s Flowers
From bakery to florist; from brass bands to floral costumes
[V] Mansions and their Masters:
"The Birches" and the Heintzmans
"Oaklands" and Robert McCormack
"Campbell House" and Archie Campbell
[V] Ravina Gardens
Home of the Champions
[V] Annette School
With a tale of pacifism, heroism and tragedy
[V] Nabob’s Retreat:
Victorian, Edwardian, Queen Anne,
Art Nouveau and Art Deco opulence.

And much more!

Bring sensible shoes and a sense of adventure.
Tour is about an hour and 1/2 and ends at Lakeshore Park near the Runnymede Subway station.

For more info, contact WTJHS at 416-763-3161,
email: westjunction@bellnet.ca or
visit our website at www.wtjhs.ca

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Jerome Jenner Fine Art at SMASH Tonight: Toronto LOWBRAU Premier Exhibit

Jerome Jenner Fine Art hosts first LOWBROW exhibit July 24, 2008 at SMASH, 2880 Dundas Street West, the Toronto JunctionScreenshot: JeromeJenner.com: NEWS / EVENTS
LOWBRAU June 24th 7:00pm-11:00pm

Jerome Jenner Fine Art hosts its first LOWBRAU pop-surrealist extravaganza tonight. This event will feature 20 lowbrow artists for a one night exhibition at Smash Industrial Salvage Depot at 2880 Dundas Street West.

N E W S / E V E N T S

LOWBRAU SHOW_001
20
LOWBRAU
ARTISTS

OPENING
NIGHT
JULY
24th
7PM TO 11PM

SMASH
2880, Dundas Street West in the Junction
Toronto, Ontario, M6P 1Y8
Google Maps
T 905 484 0173
E jeromejenner@jeromejenner.com
W http://www.jeromejenner.com/main.html

On July 24th Jerome Jenner Fine art will be hosting its first official Lowbrow exhibit.
We will be featuring twenty artists from all over the world in one night blast at the Junction of Toronto.
This event will showcase the raw talent from artists like Martin Wittfooth to our newest addition Hiroshi Hirakawa. All of these artists artwork will be complemented by industrial salvage from Argentina and beyond to frame and showcase with powerful visuals.
Credit: Jerome Jenner Gallery

About Jerome Jenner Fine Art
Jerome Jenner Fine Art is a modern contemporary gallery showcasing the best artists in the lowbrow art seen today. The Jerome Jenner Gallery is located in side of the biggest industrial salvage depot in Toronto called SMASH Industrial Salvage. This new brand of mix marketing will be showcasing the relationships between old and new.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Vital Links Between Arts and Business: Toronto Junction Local Option

The Junction City Centennial Event: the Local Option Art Awards, poster by artjunction.blogspot.comThe 'Junction City' Centennial Event: the Local Option Art Awards
Vote for Your Favourite Artists: 20 venues, 27 artists, last day - Sunday, September 7, 2008

We continue our series of publications "Explore the Local Toronto Art Scene..." about one of the West Toronto Junction Historical Society (WTJHS) Centennial initiatives. As we promised, we are giving you all the details of the Local Option Art Awards Tour.
Historical Societies are by nature interested in the origins or people, things and the relationships they precipitate. Central to the prosperity that created "Junction City" was the dynamic relationship between business and the arts.

With the Local Option Art Awards and the "Junction City" Trains the WTJHS has recreated a flourishing relationship between art and business for the Centennial year.

A beating pulse awoke in the heart of the Junction when it became clear that the business community wanted to ensure that every artist who had responded to our call had a place in the Junction. 20 businesses are hosting 27 artists.

Pat Schnurr of Picture it Framed is the treasurer for the Junction Forum for Art and Culture (JFAC) and chose 4 photographs of last years Arts Festival by artist Luke Tymowski.

Metamorphosis by Olga Weiczorek chosen by The Relax Shack clearly shows how successful the art has dovetailed with the businesses. Rhonda Noland's triptych is a great companion for it.

Filip Matovinas' painting fit The Hair Lounge like a hand in a glove.

We would like to thank The Hair Lounge, Kaleidoscope Photography, Environment Matters and Latitude 44 for fundraising for the WTJHS at the opening of CONTACT on May 3rd.

Ciara Bracken Roche of The Agora Mediterranean Cafe selected a painting by Norma Roberts.

Pascal's Bakery and Baguette is showing works by Emma Goodman and David Crighton. Pascal Abboud and his wife Ranina Saker have lived and worked in the Junction for 7 years. Pascal is currently secretary of the Junction Business Improvement Area (JBIA) and hope the Centennial will be of benefit to the whole community.

Victor Latchman of Taylors Shoes was instrumental in creating the JBIA 35 years ago. It was the second BIA in the world: Bloor West Village being the first. It took about a year to set up the JBIA, there were 8 or 9 members then, now there are over 100. Victor has chosen to show a painting by Dione Goyette.

Neill Cunningham of Pandemonium is Acting Chair of the JBIA and we are indebted to him for his understanding of the vital role the WTJHS can play in promoting JBIA objectives for the mutual benefit of both organizations. Works by Alison Fleming and Jim McDonald are on display in his window.

The photographs by Emmanuel Mifsud at Super Submarine are a delightful experience when you appreciate the juxtaposition through the window.

Blockbuster is getting rave reviews for David Crightons' compilation of Junction storefronts.

The Early Years Centre is hosting 7 artists; Taelor Branco, Kara Bogaz-Gol, Alan Ferguson, Lea Jonus, Rebekah Clarke Robinson and Jim McDonald. Lisa Kristines' Train of Thought - Peace train was the front runner coming out of the Centennial Weekend.

Triple Z Roti has welcomed 4 artists; Tongson Chen, Olga Sadowy, Sam Sueshi Miya and Brian Anderson.

The blue wall at The Athens House of Beauty looks like it was made for Nathan Strouds' work ' The Dream in High Park'.

Optometrist Dr. Feldman and Associates have chosen 2 pieces by Caitlyn Chismore which were another brilliant match.

Phil's Expresso Bar is hosting 2 drawings by Nathan Stroud. One - a view from his window. A moment held in time.

The Hole in the Wall will house a monochrome painting in the window based on an historic photo of the Junction. The painting is already on display in the bar.

The story of the parrot exhibited by Bonnie McKenzie at the West End Holistic Centre is one of the best surprises as to how something so exotic could have a truly Junction theme.

Mark Furmans' photographs of alleyways exhibited in the entrance to Shox Bar and Grill came from conversation with Gus and chance meeting with Mark. Street art at it's best.

Vera Litynsky painted a picture especially for The Organic Beet and those were the smiles that set the tone that continues to hum through the Junction because of this WTJHS Centennial initiative.

Tia Gillespies' work is on display at Latitude 44 Gallery as is 'The Spirit of the Junction' sculpture to be presented to a voting member of the public.

We would like to acknowledge the tremendous support of Janet and Mary Ann Di Bernardo and Mariposa county artist Micheal Reeves for making this project possible. The WTJHS is also very appreciative of the offer made by Janet and Mary Ann to host a silent auction fundraiser us on Thursday, October 23rd 2008. Donations are being gratefully accepted.

Real to Reel Productions, Hairy Tarantula and Traxx have generously supported the Local Option Schools projects and Post and Beam Reclamation loaned us the key to "Junction City" for the inaugural ceremonies. Urbanscape Gallery has and will again be exhibiting historic images of the Junction on behalf of the WTJHS and JFAC. Martin Scott of Forever Interiors has facilitated a wonderful Centennial initiative: "Junction City" trains for the benefit of the WTJHS and in support of local artists and businesses. If you would like to help make the trains please contact Martin Scott at 416-291-2001.

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all the members of the JBIA and the artists who have given us their support. Please pick up an Art Awards map and ballot at any participating business, fly a flag to celebrate the art of democracy or buy a "Junction City" Train to help keep the WTJHS rolling along.

Many thanks again,

Cara Reeves, WTJHSCC.
photos:

Toronto Junction City Centennial Event: Local Option Art Awards, Artist: David Crighton; photo by artjunction.blogspot.comThe 'Junction City' Centennial Event: the Local Option Art Awards Tour
Entry #: 10
Artist: David Crighton
Junction Theme: "My Junction" - a "Community of the Crossroads"

Toronto Junction City Centennial Event: Local Option Art Awards, Artist: Lisa Kristine; photo by artjunction.blogspot.comThe 'Junction City' Centennial Event: the Local Option Art Awards Tour
Entry #: 6
Artist: Lisa Kristine
Junction Theme: "Train of Thought" - the Peace Train

Toronto Junction City Centennial Event: Local Option Art Awards, Artist: Mark Furman; photo by artjunction.blogspot.comThe 'Junction City' Centennial Event: the Local Option Art Awards Tour
Entry #: 8
Artist: Mark Furman
Junction Theme: "...Source of Inspiration..."

Toronto Junction City Centennial Event: Local Option Art Awards, Artist: Bonnie Mackenzie; photo by artjunction.blogspot.comThe 'Junction City' Centennial Event: the Local Option Art Awards Tour
Entry #: 34
Artist: Bonnie Mackenzie
Junction Theme: "Saving Christmas"

Friday, July 18, 2008

Local News: Summer in the Toronto Junction City

Poster: The Junction Arts Festival 2008, photo by artjunction.blogspot.comPoster: The Junction Arts Festival 2008 JUNCTIONArtsFEST.COM
Photo: artjunction.blogspot.com
Summertime brings great free outdoor activities to the West Toronto 'Junction City'. The Junction Forum for Art and Culture continues to present the Free Summer Concert Series in the Junction.

West Toronto Junction City Presents Free Summer Concerts and Family Fun

EVERY SATURDAY from June 14 to August 2, 2008
at the Junction City Square & Train Platform
2960 Dundas Street West at Pacific Avenue, Toronto, ON

Events, Marketplace, Workshops

10:00 am
[V] The Junction Market
[V] The [murmur] - Audio Junction Story Collectors Project
[V] Period Costumes - Dress-up & Photos
[V] Toronto Aerial Dance - Free Circus Lessons


12:00 pm
Live Concert

1:30pm
West Toronto Junction Historical Society Walking Tours

The concert tomorrow, July 19, will feature a Latin and Andean music. The Imbayakunas band comes to the Junction City. Their music allows the listener to escape on an exotic voyage to a South American traditional Native community.


Website Screenshot: The Imbayakunas Latin and Andean MusicThe Imbayakunas Music Website Screenshot
Credit: The Imbayakunas

About: The Imbayakunas
"The Imbayakunas" - Keeping Andean Traditions Alive Through Song
"When I made the decision to form ‘The Imbayakunas’ music group, I knew my ancestors would be proud", remarks Patricio Chiza. Mr. Chiza is the musical director and founder of The Imbayakunas Music Group from Ecuador. "I come from a strong and vibrant Native Andean culture. Both my mother and father raised myself and my siblings to understand and appreciate our traditions. Although there was and still exists racism against Native people, my parents never relinquished their pride and dignity in the face of adversity and discrimination."
In 1998, Patricio Chiza began his dream of forming a music group that would highlight the wondrous sound of the Andes. Each musician is from Ecuador and shares a love of performing. Their music continues to evolve and can be described as a World Music fusion between traditional Andean sounds and contemporary Latin rhythms. The music of The Imbayakunas is infectious; Latin American and North American audiences alike are drawn to the musical mix of pan flutes, guitar, violin, charango and drums.
The Imbayakunas Music Group has worked hard to make their mark as entertainers. They have gained much notoriety while performing at various festivals, private functions, shopping centres and benefit events. Through their work over the years, they have become the best known local presenters of Andean music in Canada. The Imbayakunas have recorded and released 10 CD's to date and showcase a wide repertoire of musical sounds spanning from traditional Andean San Juans to cover versions of classics such as "Hotel California" by The Eagles.
"Anytime I have the opportunity to show the world the beauty that is Andean Music, it is a privilege and my pleasure", says Patricio Chiza. The Imbayakunas success is a dream come true.
For general information please contact:
Junction Forum for Art and Culture
Tel: 416-767-5036
Email: junctionartsfest@on.aibn.com
Web: www.thejunctioncity.com

For historical walk information please contact:
Neil Ross,
Centennial Committee Chair
West Toronto Junction Historical Society
Tel: 416-760-9057
Email: neilr@auracom.com
Web: www.wtjhs.ca

Local news in brief

The Foundation Vegan/Vegetarian Restaurant: new inspiration for healthy and green living in the JunctionThe Foundation is coming: new inspiration for healthy and green living in the Junction
Photo: artjunction.blogspot.com
Never doubt that
a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change
the world. Indeed. It is the only
thing that ever has.
Margaret Mead

junctioner: A New Restaurant
Posted by Louis
Reviews: http://www.dinehere.ca/restaurant.asp?r=126

Poster: Margret's Scrumptious Brunch
Photo: artjunction.blogspot.com
Margret's Scrumptious Brunch

Join us every Saturday & Sunday
for Brunch starting June 7th
from 10AM to 3PM
@ Margret
2952 Dundas Street West

DJs, Acoustic James, Awesome Food, Delicious Drinks & More!
It's just the east side of the Junction City Square & Train Platform.

Community Picnic at Baird Park, Keele Street, TorontoPoster: Community Picnic at Baird Park
Photo: artjunction.blogspot.com

Community Picnic at Baird Park
July 19, noon - 2:00pm
275 Keele Street, Toronto, ON
Nearest Major Intersection: Annette St & Indian Rd

junction-parents.blogspot.com: The Imagination Library
A community initiative to launch during this year's Junction Arts Festival.
Credit: http://junction-parents.blogspot.com

insidetoronto.ca: Junction expatriates invited to community reunion
"Junction expatriates are invited "home" to celebrate with old friends and neighbours at a community reunion during the Junction Arts Festival, as part of the neighbourhood's centennial celebrations this year."
BY LISA RAINFORD

dine.to: Recent Openings
June 24, 2008
"Espresso Mi Vida opens at 392 Pacific Avenue in the Junction, serving up sumptuous South American food.
Dundas Street West is seeing a definite increase in cafes, as well. The Sweet Potato (2995 Dundas Street West), The Beet (2945 Dundas Street West), Crema Coffe Co (3079 Dundas Street West), and Rawlicious (3092 Dundas Street West) have all opened. Rapid heartbeats and increased energy at all hours can already be detected in the area."

by Stephanie Dickison

artjunction.blogspot.com: Explore the Local Toronto Art Scene and Vote for Your Favourite Artist
The Local Option Art Awards is a unique exhibit of community art celebrating the Centennial of West Toronto Junction.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Explore the Local Toronto Art Scene and Vote for Your Favourite Artist

The Junction City Centennial Event: the Local Option Art Awards, poster by artjunction.blogspot.comThe 'Junction City' Centennial Event: the Local Option Art Awards
Vote for Your Favourite Artists: 20 venues, 27 artists, last day - Sunday, September 7, 2008

Explore the local art scene in the West Toronto Junction Historic District, Ontario through this summer with the Junction Forum for Art and Culture along with the Junction Business Improvement Area, and the West Toronto Junction Historical Society.
The Local Option Art Awards is a unique exhibit of community art celebrating the Centennial of West Toronto Junction, the only district of Toronto that was once an independent city. "The Junction has always represented a marriage between business and the arts," says Cara Reeves who is coordinating the project for the West Toronto Junction Historical Society in partnership with Janet and Mary Ann DiBernardo of Latitude 44 Gallery. "We asked the community to submit art with a Junction theme. Junction businesses enthusiastically agreed to exhibit the work. The winners will be chosen by public vote over the Centennial year. We wish to thank Mariposa County artist, Micheal Reeves, for sponsoring this WTJHS initiative."

Voting will close on Sunday, September 7, at 2:30 pm, the last day of the Junction Arts Festival. The winners of the "Local Option for Art Awards" to be announced at the WTJHS Local Option Gala on Thursday, October 23 at Latitude 44 Gallery, 2900 Dundas Street West.

In addition, 'Spirit of the Junction' -- a sculpture by celebrated artist Reid English will be awarded to a voting member of the public.

"The central element in this project is choice," she continues. "20 businesses along Dundas Street West from just East of Keele and West of Quebec are hosting the works of 27 artists. This experiment in democratic flexibility has generated an astonishingly coherent and vibrant presence in the Junction as part of the Centennial celebrations. As a Historical Society member, I'm particularly pleased with the way the Junction's past is reflected in the imagery."

The relationship between the artists and the business community is already blossoming into sales for some of the artists involved in the Art Awards Tour. Anyone from anywhere is invited to vote for their favourite artist.

For more information, list of venues please go to www.wtjhs.ca or www.latitude44gallery.ca.
Phone: 416-769-2900.

Credit:
West Toronto Junction Historical Society (WTJHS): A non-profit, charitable, volunteer organization. It was formed in 1980 by a group of local residents with the active support of the City of Toronto Planning and Development Department and Councillor David White. It was then incorporated in 1981 as an affiliate of the Ontario Historical Society.

Latitude 44 Gallery ~ Framing ~ Decor: With 25 years of corporate and retail framing experience,
Latitude 44 is proud to have served and continues to serve both corporate and residential clients for all their framing, art and decor needs.

Junction Forum for Art and Culture (JFAC): It was incorporated as a non-profit group in February 2004. The annual Junction Arts Festival is the main project of the JFAC, an arts presenting body. 2008 marks the 16th year for the Junction Arts Festival, and the 100th anniversary of the Junction becoming an independent city (City of West Toronto, April 14, 1908).


Next week we will give you the details of the Local Option Art Awards Tour.

The Local Option Art can be viewed at the following participating Dundas Street West businesses:
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Friday, July 04, 2008

Busy Summer Weekends at the Toronto Junction City Square

Summer Events 2008 in the West Toronto Junction, photos by artjunctionPhoto: Summer Events 2008 in the West Toronto Junction

Summertime brings great free outdoor activities to the West Toronto Junction District. The Junction Forum for Art and Culture continues to present the Free Summer Concert Series in the Junction.

West Toronto Junction City Presents Free Summer Concerts and Family Fun

EVERY SATURDAY from June 14 to August 2, 2008
at the Junction City Square & Train Platform
2960 Dundas Street West at Pacific Avenue

Events, Marketplace, Workshops
10:00 am
[V] The Junction Market
[V] The [murmur] - Audio Junction Story Collectors Project
[V] Period Costumes - Dress-up & Photos
[V] Toronto Aerial Dance - Free Circus Lessons

12:00 pm
Live Concert

1:30pm
West Toronto Junction Historical Society Walking Tours

The concert tomorrow, July 5, will feature a Junction's local dysfunct band performing everything from Ska, Reggae, and Funk to Progressive and Alternative rock music.

About: dysfunct
Alternative / Ska / Progressive
dysfunct was formed in the Junction in late 2006, consisting of Elias Hilman-Huchetson on the DRUMS, Kvesche Vardo Be on the BASS guitar, and Dillon Hall on the GUITAR. They play everything from Ska, Reggae, and Funk to Progressive and Alternative rock. They more recently have added Hunter Blair on the SAX, and also sometimes play with Kevin Mistica on the TROMBONE from The GoodRats Radio. vardo and Dillon have been writing together for years and have been in serveral acts together such as A.D.D. and GLE . dysfunct has shared the stage with bands like The Good times, The Superstitions, Stop Drop n' Skank, One Night Band, 'Phil Allister'(-CEA), Cheapsuits, The Thundermonks, Corporation, The Clementones, The Johnstones, the Miles and many more. As well they have recorded and created beats on many hiphop tracks for "Sci Young" and his producer Adam Hall.

July 12: Ritmo Flamenco Dance
July 19: The Imbayakunas
July 26: Mariachi Guadalajara Band
August 2: To be Announced

After a concert at 1:30 pm join our free Centennial walking tours of the "Junction City", walk the streets of the Junction with the men and women who built it:

youtube.com: Walking Tour: Calrton-Davenport
Junction Mayor G.W. Clendenan (acted by Gib Goodfellow) and Junction journalist A.B. Rice (acted by Neil Ross) come back to life to share some fascinating tidbits from Junction history.
Credit: JunctionWalk
The West Toronto Junction Historical Society would like to thank producer and WTJHS volunteer Cristina Senjug for shooting and editing this video of the historical walking tour of Carlton-Davenport. Watch this space for Cristina's next video of the Annette Indian Road tour. Cristina was assisted by artist Peter LIU Gang. The WTJHS is grateful for their contribution in publicizing our events and the history of the Junction.

July tour highlights:
RACES, RELIGION AND BOWLS: RECREATION IN THE JUNCTION
  • James Hall: Junction and Democracy
  • The Carlton Race Course
  • Masons, The Library and Stained Glass to Die For
  • Glimpse of the Junction Theatre District
  • The Legend of Minerva Reid
  • Mayor Baird: Lust for Parkland
  • Lawn Bowling: the National Craze
  • Western School and the Legend of Miss Cherry
  • The Willoughby Estate
  • The Carrying Place (Indian Road)
links:
myspace.com: dysfunct
radio3.cbc.ca: dysfunct
supernova.com: Dysfunct | Reggae, Ska, Alternative | Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Every Saturday from June 14 to August 2, 2008 starting at 10am, the Junction Train Platform will be alive with entertainment and activities for everyone to enjoy. Local businesses will gather in the Junction Market, where you can also get a circus lesson from Toronto Aerial Dance Theatre, take an historical walking tour courtesy of the West Toronto Junction Historical Society or contribute a story to murmur. All of this will be centred around the noon concerts representing the wide range of cultures making up the Junction. We've been dressing-up the platform area the last few weeks as well - students from the Academy of Realist Art have completed an historic-themed mural and some landscaping has been added to the area to green-it-up. So come up to the Junction for brunch, then head over to the Junction Train Platform to see what's going on.

Tuesday, July 01, 2008

Rejuvenate the Junction Residents' Association Is the Best Way to Meet Y[our] Neighbours

The West Toronto Junction Community Meeting 2008 Poster, photo by artjunctionjunction community 2.0[08] @ artjunction.blogspot.com
Junction community meeting poster
Credit: junctioneer: West Toronto Industry and community, building by building, street by street
Dear Junctioner & Junction-Parents:
What a wonderful initiative for the Junction community to undertake, and it's so great that Tony will be there to share and help renew the Junction Residents' Association.
Thank you for your time and see you IMBY – yes, in my backyard.

Information: The West Toronto Junction Community Meeting
junction community meeting
Wednesday, July 2nd 7:00 pm


At the Troubadour Bar patio 3071 Dundas St. West
(at Quebec Ave. South side of Dundas)

A meeting to talk issues, chat about the
community – and meet each other and discuss
a residents association so the community
can have a joint voice.

IT’S
Your
Junction
links:
breakingprojects.com/junctioneer: junction community meeting Wednesday July 2nd 7:00pm
nytimes.com: Meet Your Neighbors, but Just Not in Person
Matthew Goldstein of LifeAt, a social networking site for people who live in apartment buildings.
urbanstrategies.com: Residents, developer join up at Junction
Neighbours back Options for Homes' condo towers proposal after learning the costly extras would be eliminated
blogto.com: The Junction: Home to The Gathering Space
by Laura Mendes
urbantoronto.ca: A place to discuss issues that are local in nature: Urban Toronto Forum > Greater Toronto Discussion > Neighbourhood Node> The Junction
readingt.readingcities.com: The Junction: Hip Arts Hangout
by Amy Lavender Harris
flickr.com: a photowalk through the Junction: Madhava Enros,
Rannie “Photojunkie” Turingan, Will Pate, Jay Goldman

www.thewestbend.ca/twbca: Bloor Dundas ‘Avenue’ Study: Kick-Off Public Meeting
Tuesday, July 8, 2008 6:30 p.m. Saint Joan of Arc - Gymnasium 1701 Bloor Street West.


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