The artists’ tents and music emanating from the big tent during the first Haut-Saint-Laurent Arts Festival attracted, among others, the attention of paddlers on the Chateauguay River. Over the weekend, Grove Hall became an even more enchanting site than usual as it was transformed into a meeting place for artists, artisans and musicians that sparked a festive and welcoming atmosphere throughout the festival.
The organizers of the event wanted to emphasize cultural diversity with a local flavor, free for everyone.
Another visitor, impressed by the quality of the event, stated: “It was really interesting to see such a diversity of artists in the same beautiful location. It was also obviously a huge opportunity for our young musicians of all sorts to find a welcoming stage and audience. The type of music and combinations of instruments and styles was really inspiring, and a reminder of just how creative music can be.”
As for the artists and artisans, their passion and enthusiasm was contagious. All those involved in the festival had two things in common: the quality of their products and their generosity. They talked happily about their work with visitors who were able to admire products made from alpaca fibre, handcrafted jewelry and soaps, woven baskets, woven, crocheted and glass articles made from recycled products, wooden objects and furniture, paintings, photographs, pressed flowers and poetry.
“A warm welcome from organizers, a beautiful location and a weekend of networking” allowed one of the exhibitors to meet new people and to discover the region’s artistic and musical talent. A painter and make-up artist added, “It was my first time exposing my work at an event like this. The warm atmosphere and the openness of the artists put me at ease.”
Saturday’s series of musical performances of all genres culminated with a line-up of punk rock groups. The festival rebooted on Sunday morning with a gospel service performed by Kevin Harvey, David Whyte and Jim Priemel of the Durham County Poets, who were accompanied at times by Norm Rennie and Robbie Ireland. Christopher Pennington, whose silly songs left children and adults alike with the giggles, capped off the second day.
“The Grove Hall team was absolutely delighted with the event and will continue to work on improving things for next year’s edition. A wonderful collaboration of the MRC, Elan, Grove Hall Crew and Regional Artists and Musicians! This was what events like this should be,” concluded Mark and Tina Bye, the owners of Grove Hall.
If you missed the first weekend of activities, there are still some spaces available for the second half of the festival: two contemporary dance performances on August 14 and 15. For more information, visit either www.grovehall.ca or www.arts-alive-quebec.ca or call 514-791-5100.
(Anick Lacroix)
