They came from near and they came from far to enjoy the sights and sounds of Castlegar’s own farmers market on a recent Saturday next to the Castlegar Station Museum. It was made an international event by a large group of bikers from Montana (in an ease of security protocol by the Canadian Border Agency).
Some of the riders rode Intruders which in itself should have immediately set off warning bells. But in a sign of international cooperation so close to our countries’ birthdays, warm salutations and conversation abounded between residents and visitors.
What attractions were there to see, hear, smell and taste? Glass art, rhubarb cake, frilly scarves, rock & roll, spices, cherries, honey and more.
The Station Museum was buzzing with activity, while Tim Bourchier from Rossland entertained with some tasty guitar and vocals.
The farmers market is a great way to meet, chat and learn from other market goers and sellers. In fact, a large percentage of market goers were tourists and other out-of-towners.
Catherine White, the artist behind Catherine’s Glass Studio, had beautiful stained glass and fused glass pieces on display.
Originally from Toronto where she went to art college and learned the craft of stained glass—Catherine now lives and works from her studio in Robson.
Growing up, Catherine was strongly influenced by the gallery culture of Toronto and Canada’s Group of Seven—the famous Canadian landscape impressionism painters. Her favourites were A.Y. Jackson and J.E.H. MacDonald. She had close relatives in Toronto who were strong sponsors of Canadian art, and had even had members of the Group of Seven—including A.Y. Jackson— board at their house. Catherine enjoyed visiting these relatives who had included the Group of Seven’s pieces being displayed on their walls, as well as Emily Carr’s work.
Catherine White encourages more Castlegarians to come to the farmers market.
To meet one’s neighbours and visitors is always an enjoyable experience. Learning about where your food comes from will be a welcome experience as the season progresses and more and more produce will be available.
Meeting the craftspeople and, artists behind the useful and aesthetically pleasing work opens one’s mind to a world of possibilities.