Donald Teuma-Castelletti
PORTAGE DU FORT
July 18, 2018
An ever-evolving group of artists along the Ottawa River have made it their mission to promote both their town and its rich history, all the while inspiring local artists to start showing their work in public.
Portage du Fort’s Artistes de la Rivière have created a network of studios in their town available for touring through every weekend during the summer months, as they seek to increase tourism and the arts.
Starting up a few years ago, studios in town began opening their doors, allowing guests to not only browse their displays, but to see the artists in action. Frances Shea, one of the artists, explained that the tour has become an annual collaboration that is looked forward to by folks from across the Pontiac, Ottawa Valley and even up from the city.
Over the years, it’s evolved to grow a loyal fanbase, with customers returning each season to grow their own collections. However, selling art is just a small piece of this network – the focus is more on showcasing what the area has to offer.
“It’s not about sales, it’s more about showcasing and being accessible to people curious about local art,” said Geraldine Classen, one of the artists.
She explained that their goal is to encourage tourists to explore Portage du Fort, to take in both what is offered from the past and the present. Through the local art offerings, guests will enjoy what is currently available in town, but through their initiatives, they seek to highlight Portage’s part in Canada’s history.
They have taken it upon themselves to promote history through fundraising for commemorative plaques, detailing the architectural and cultural history of a building, that will guide guests through town. An upcoming tour on Aug. 11, in partnership with the Pontiac Historical Society, will be in support of this project.
Another highlight of their network is the informal structure, Shea stated, as artists who wish to participate are not tied to regulations, rules, or stipulations.
“We’re not tied to any organization and don’t have any rules,” said Classen.
She and Shea put an emphasis on encouraging new artists to become involved, as they are aware it is a big step to begin showing work in the first place. However, they said, it is essential for personal and artistic growth.
If someone in the area would like to show their work – paintings, sculpture, photography, music, what have you – they’re welcome to join the group along the river. Simply stop in one weekend for a chat with a participating artist and they’ll help facilitate the addition.
