A twenty-four hour period last week with Janet Hunter allowed me to cross one item off my bucket list and experience a celebration of sculpture. Thank-you Janet!
The Arts and Letters Club
Janet invited some friends and colleagues to the historic Arts and Letters Club (ALC) for their annual Christmas lunch. I was giddy to be included. Never in a million years did I think I would have the opportunity to dine within the walls of this exclusive hang-out. As I approached the front façade, I was pinching myself. I waited a minute for the front steps to clear before I started taking pictures, proud of my stealthiness. Of course, as I approached the beautiful, oversized doors, they miraculously opened. A porter welcomed me, graciously not saying a word about my behaviour. Busted.
Once inside, I experienced the magic that I had always known was held within the walls of this space. There is history everywhere. You can breathe it in with all of your senses. Organized in 1908, ALC has been housed in three different locations, has brought together various art disciplines and personalities including the Group of Seven members Vincent Massey, Marshall McLuhan, and Robertson Davies. Portraits of past club presidents, including a few women (ALC was a male-exclusive club until 1985) adorn the walls. There were three stories of art works by former members, many instantly recognizable. The venue, food, drink, and of course the company were outstanding.
The Al Green Sculpture Studio and School
The next day involved the second “Janet” invitation to the Al Green Sculpture Studio and School Open House. Al Green was a builder of the city and of sculpture. He opened the studio in 2000, affording sculptors a studio and community to produce three dimensional work. Unfortunately the members lost their benefactor in 2016, but his spirit and vision lives on in the 3000 square foot space in Leslieville. The opening in the studio allowed the viewers to experience both finished sculptures and works in process. It is an engaging space, filled with evocative art and committed artists. Janet Hunter is one of them.
Janet Hunter with her Goddesses/ Warriors
Photo Credit: Patricia M.
Check out Janet Hunter’s work and thoughtful contemporary art commentary on her website.