Tralee Pearce

If the numbers are anything to go by, our small towns are bursting at the seams with people who truly want to build a better tomorrow.

The local art scene explodes this fall with a greater number of juried shows, country studio tours and buzzy events than we’ve seen in a long time.

Delve into Mono artist Deb Menken’s vibrant florals, abstracts and rugged landscapes.

As a student of mysticism and esoteric philosophy, artist CJ Shelton’s works reflect her love of the archetypal realm.

Emerging artist Emily Escoffrey isn’t a fan of neutrals, preferring instead to paint abstract pieces that grab the eye.

The latest thinking in garden and lawn cleanup is all about doing a little less – which in turn does a lot more for pollinators, birds and your soil.

Mulmur based painter Brad MacIver is known for his wistful landscapes and crisp still lifes that encourage a viewer to luxuriate in the subject matter.

How John and Paola Chiodo’s contemporary Caledon bungalow delivers on a teenaged dream of a tranquil life in the country.

Painter Sherry Park’s oil portraits rely on soft brushstrokes and a soulful take on realism.

Lynden Cowan’s highly detailed hyper realistic paintings require “triple-zero brushes by the boxload” to achieve.

Michael Compeau’s paintings are inspired by the lush landscapes and natural wonders that surround him.

Frieda Pereira’s love of gardening is reflected in her most recent pieces with black peonies, poppies and other flora against a creamy white backdrop.

The Creemore artist mines the emotional connections we make with the landscape and landmarks around us.

Local food pros share a few of their favourite holiday recipes, from sugar cookies to Madeleines, to brighten the cookie tray this year.

“Moody skies are one of my favourites. There’s so much going on, so much color.”

Alton artist Kayla Jackson finds her muse in the historic streets of her hometown and commits its architecture and character to canvas.

A contemporary family home melds into a Mulmur hillside and makes the case for the transportive joys of miles-long vistas and oversized windows.

Sara credits a physical move from Toronto for moves she’s been making artistically.