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Articles Tagged ‘art’

WEEKLY LUNCH PICK: Sliders at Hintonburg’s new Alpha Soul Café

See those chips? They're homemade!

If you’ve been down Wellington Street in Hintonburg over the last nine months or so, it’s safe to assume you noticed the large bright purple painted facade with yellow lettering announcing the arrival of a new café. The former location of the subdued Levonian Shirt Maker shop had become a bit of an eyesore. On the other hand, the sign did an excellent job of grabbing attention and making a statement, too. It seemed to scream: Watch Out Hintonburg, Here I Come!

I wasn’t sure what to expect.

At the end of April, the wall came down and Alpha Soul joined the neighbourhood. More than a café, it’s billed as a wine bar and an art space too. The outrageous colour palate remains — yellow walls and purple chairs create an overly caffeinated effect. But beneath its brusque exterior, there’s a warmth to the place with all of its homey baked goods, freshly brewed iced tea (lemon or mint!), and even turkey pot pie. While it’s all a bit eclectic for my taste, I respect the desire to create a unique social gathering space in a city starved for something like this.

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  |  July 25, 2011 at 9:20 am

THE WEEKENDER: Shopping, art, puppies, and thoughtful words from Roméo Dallaire

DALHOUSIE STREET SHOPPING PARTY (FREE!)

Remember, ’tis the season for the weekend to start early. This Thursday, the hipster stores on Dalhousie Street host the first of two discount-filled December shopping nights. Participating shops are offering specials, discounts, food, drinks, raffles, and other treats to celebrate the season. Who’s on Dalhousie, you ask? A few of our faves include A Guy A Girl 2 Dogs and a Cat (pet stuff, obviously), Green Light District Design (gorgeous furniture and accessories), Victoire (great clothes!), Workshop Studio (cute jewellery and lots more), and Nest (Euro kids toys). Thursday, Dec. 2, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Photo courtesy Random House Canada

THEY FIGHT LIKE SOLDIERS, THEY DIE LIKE CHILDREN
Lieutenant-General Roméo Dallaire, the man known for bringing attention to the Rwandan genocide, is now turning his attention to the plight of child soldiers. Now retired and serving on the senate, Dallaire has penned a new book that sheds light on the current situation and provides concrete solutions to eradicate it. Get involved in the discussion and hear the ideas of a man who once faced child soldiers on the battlefield — and decided to do something about this troubling phenomenon. Thursday, Dec. 2. 7 p.m. $15, $10 students and seniors. Tickets available at the door. Mayfair Theatre, 1074 Bank St. www.writersfestival.org

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  |  December 1, 2010 at 10:44 am

SHOP TALK: Lost Marbles

Photo by Angela Gordon

Take a break from the typical and enter a world of pushing-the-line humour and cutting edge originality. Simply put, Lost Marbles is a toy store for adults who are looking for unusual gifts and a hit of pop culture déjà vu.  With items ranging from ninja shaped cookie cutters to giant microbe stuffed plushies, the store is a great place for those looking to get a little off-beat with this year’s Secret Santa gift.  If humorous gifts aren’t your thing, the store also carries a variety of art books, puzzles, and board games, products that are a little more low-key, but no less unique.  The loft store in the ByWard Market is stocked floor to ceiling with items sure to please the pickiest of stocking stuffers this holiday season.

PLUS: Fans of graphic art are in for a treat this week as Ottawa-born, San Francisco-based artist Dirty Donny comes to town for the Canadian launch of his new coffee table book, Monster Revolt!  A book signing and poster show is happening on Thursday, Dec. 2 at Babylon (317 Bank St.).  Come out for a night of unconventional fun and punk rock karaoke, featuring the talents of Remi Royale and Major Entertainer Mike H.

The Look: creatively quirky; tongue-in-cheek humour

Perfect for: someone who has everything

USP: designer vinyl toys you can’t get anywhere else

55 William St., 809 Bank St., 315 Richmond Rd.; www.lostmarbles.ca

  |  November 30, 2010 at 10:50 am

The Weekender: A ’50s dance party, two terrific art events, plus three more intriguing ideas

Louis Helbig's exhibit "Beautiful Destruction" is on view at City Hall Art Gallery until Sept. 26. Photo courtesy of Louis Helbig.

FESTIVAL X (FREE!)
There are way too many awesome exhibitions (35 at last count) to list them all, so check out the website and plan to spend lots of time being inspired and intrigued over the next few days and weeks. Some of our must-see picks for the weekend: Justin Wonnacott’s freaky fish at Carleton University Art Gallery (Saturday and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.), Louis Helbig’s Beautiful Destruction shots of the oil sands at City Hall Art Gallery (from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., ending Sept. 26), and Karsh Award winner Tony Fouhse’s portraits at Karsh-Masson Gallery (Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). www.festivalx.ca

LA VENDEMMIA
Little Italy’s tasting, feasting, and stomping festival hits its peak this weekend. Our weekend picks? On Sept. 24, dozens of restaurants showcase feature lunch and dinner menus in honour of the event. On Sept. 25, head to Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana at 9 a.m. to meet up for a walking tour of Little Italy, then to Preston Hardware at 11 a.m. for a free wine-making seminar. For a full list of events visit www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia

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  |  September 22, 2010 at 11:05 am

The Weekender: A barnyard bash, a gathering in the Glebe, and four other happenings

BARNSTORM 11
Escape from the city and revel in the country air at this unique event. The annual Barnstorm party takes place in a 150-year-old barn, in a space known as “the Odditorium.” Local bands Flow 14, Ashley Newall & Friends, The Reverb Syndicate, and others get the party started; CKCU DJs offer a different vibe in another barn (aka the Chill Zone). Guests are encouraged to “BYOB and whatever makes you happy.” With lots of room for camping and campfires, strolling and swimming, Barnstorm is a great way to let off some of that urban angst. Bus transportation available ($20). Sept. 11. 6 p.m. $10. 15328 Concession 3-4, Finch, ON. www.barnstorm.ca

It's Better in the Bahamas by Sherry Garcia

CATWALK (FREE!)
Prowl through the home studios of 11 Centretown artists during the fourth annual Centretown Art Tour. Get a glimpse of the spaces inhabited by working artists (they’re usually pretty stylish) and take in loads of photography, sculpture, paintings, and more. Watch for the work of Jim Davies, a cognitive science professor at Carleton University who blends Chinese calligraphy, English text, and graffiti-style composition to create truly compelling art. And Meaghan Haughian’s fictional femmes (left) are waiting to stare you down. Sept. 12. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Various locations. www.catwalkottawa.ca

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  |  September 8, 2010 at 12:23 pm

SHOP TALK: Wall Space Gallery

This sleek gallery is abuzz with activity during the month of September. As host for the vernissage of the West End Studio Tour (W.E.S.T.), Wall Space gives visitors a chance to see works by all 20 participating artists under one roof. Visit the gallery on Sept. 16 to meet the artists, pick up maps, and plan your course. (Now in its 15th year, W.E.S.T. takes place Sept. 18 – 19 and 25 – 26 at various studios in the west end of the city.)  Just two days later, on Sept. 18, an exhibit of paintings by Katherine Jeans reveals the fleeting beauty of the natural world. Jeans, an accomplished filmmaker with Sound Venture Productions in Ottawa, launches her book A Desire to Paint What is Beautiful on Sept. 19 at the gallery. All events take place at the Westboro location.

Photography by Angela Gordon

The look: contemporary Canadian.

The labels: represented artists include Alexandra Chowaniec, Andrew King, Lori Richards, and Marjolyn Van Der Hart.

Perfect for: an uplifting art break; keeping up-to-date with up-and-coming artists; top notch custom framing.

USP: sophisticated gallery atmosphere paired with expert framing services inspires art collectors.

358 Richmond Rd., www.wallspacegallery.ca

  |  September 7, 2010 at 3:07 pm

The Weekender: Grown-up cartoons, hot air balloons, and four more long weekend events

"Twilight" is just one of the paintings by Michel Luc Bellemare that will be on view at Orange Gallery.

PIXIE DUST (FREE!)
An exhibit by artist Michel Luc Bellemare opens this Thursday as part of the 1st Thursdays Wellington West Art Walk. Bellemare, a young aboriginal artist working in Ottawa, offers a visually striking collection of large abstract paintings in the style of colour-realism. Vibrant and radiant, meditative and pleasing to the eye, Bellemare’s work actually stops you in your tracks — no mean feat if you’re doing the six-gallery crawl. Vernissage Sept. 2. 5-9 p.m. Show runs to Sept. 23. Orange Gallery, 233 Armstrong St. www.orangeartgallery.ca

GATINEAU HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL
Look up — way up — for this aeronautical adventure that draws participants from around the world to show off the best in balloon designs. If you’re more of a feet-on-the-ground type of person, catch extreme sports demos, buskers, fireworks, a midway, and concert performances by Our Lady Peace and Hedley. Sept. 3 to 6. One day wristband: Sept. 3 $24, Sept. 4-6 $18. See website for full ticket info. La Baie Park, Gatineau, 819 243-2331. www.montgolfieresgatineau.com

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  |  September 1, 2010 at 11:57 am

The Weekender: Sunday rides, country concerts, and one crafty birthday bash

DEMOLITION DERBY
If this is indeed the last day of the last SuperEx at Lansdowne, you’ve got to be here. And if you’ve got to be here, you’ve got to see the last demolition demolition derby. As the promo says “Come to Ottawa SuperEx and hit another car without having to call your insurance company!”  Categories include mini smash and pro-modified class. Grab a poutine, head for the stands and cheer on your favourite wrecks. Aug. 29. 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. $7-$12. Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St. www.ottawasuperex.com

Photo courtesy NCC

ALCATEL-LUCENT SUNDAY BIKEDAYS (FREE!)
Round up the family and hop on your bikes (or rollerblades) during the last few days of summer for some traffic-free riding. On Sunday mornings until Sept. 5, more than 50 kilometres of road are closed to cars, including Colonel By Drive from Laurier Bridge to Hogs Back Falls along the canal. The kids might protest getting up early for a ride, but they’ll thank you when they’re older. See website for road locations and closure times. 613-239-5000. www.canadascapital.gc.ca

HILOTRONS
Wakefield seems to up its cool quotient on a weekly basis. As summer draws to a close, it’s all about Wakefest, which swings into action with four days of music and dance. A highlight on the bill are the ultra-cool popsters known as the Hilotrons. Aug. 28. 8:30 p.m. $10 (earlybird); $12 at the door. 753 Riverside Dr., Wakefield, 819-459-3228. www.theblacksheepinn.com or www.wakefest.org

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  |  August 25, 2010 at 3:35 pm

The Weekender: World Press, Getting OFF, and three other hot happenings

HINTONBURG ARTS FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Hintonburg is the place to be this weekend. The Third Annual Hintonburg Arts Festival gets going Saturday at noon, when over 50 tents set up on Hinchey Avenue. Artists and vendors, belly-dancers and other street performers will be there to celebrate all things artistic. In the evening, head over to the community centre to catch a free movie — The Spy Next Door at 6:30 p.m. followed by It’s Complicated at 8:30 p.m. (Weather permitting, the later movie will be screened outdoors.) Still not tired? Then head over to Patrick John Mills Gallery for a raucous backyard bash featuring live music from The Hammerheads and Dr. Lee Percussion, film screenings, dance performances, and much more ($20 open bar). August 14, noon to midnight, August 15, noon to 5 p.m. Hinchey Avenue, www.hintonburg.com.

Horse Feathers take the stage on Saturday at the Ottawa Folk Festival.

OTTAWA FOLK FESTIVAL
You’ve got to love an event for which the advertisements around town read, “I get OFF.” Not just for the Birkenstocks-wearing crowd anymore, this summer staple brings together more than 40 local, national, and international acts for a weekend of jamming. Expect to see greats like Craig Cardiff, Horse Feathers, and The Weakerthans, as well as Tanya Tagaq, an Inuit throat singer, roots-music icon Jim Cuddy, and alternative hip hop collective Arrested Development. Aug. 13 to 15. Weekend pass $99, youth/senior $59, day pass $25-$39. Britannia Park, 1-866-9-GET-TIX. www.ottawafolk.org.

WORLD PRESS PHOTO EXHIBITION (FREE!)
Disturbing, poignant, eye opening. For the third year in a row, the Canadian War Museum hosts award-winning photographs from the prestigious World Press Photo contest. From war to natural disaster to celebration, this annual series of incredible photographs by photographers and photo-journalists provides an eyewitness record of the major world events from the past year. Decompress afterwards with a walk along the Ottawa River Parkway. Until August 29. Canadian War Museum, 1 Vimy Place, 819-776-7000, www.warmuseum.ca.

CARP GARLIC FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Who would have thought there could be an entire festival dedicated to this delicious member of the onion family? Often getting a bad rap for its potent smell, this yearly event gives reason to celebrate with more than 100 vendors on site and demonstrations that include growing, cooking, and tasting. Aug. 14 (8 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and 15 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Carp Fairgrounds, 3790 Carp Rd., 613-786-1010. www.carpfarmersmarket.com.

NAVAN FAIR
It’s fair season again! Time to pull on your cut-offs and head to the country for a few days of good old-fashioned fun. Catch classic rock concerts from the likes of Trooper and Prairie Oyster, go for a ride on the midway, and watch the tough guys tear it up in the demolition derby. Plus, for the first time this year, Jed the Mechanical Bull will be hanging around, ready to take on the most ambitious of cowgirls and cowboys. If you would rather keep two feet on the ground, visit the Baby Show on Sunday at 11 a.m. Aug. 12-15 (hours vary; see website for schedule). $10, children four to 12 $3, children three and under free (midway extra). Navan Fairgrounds, 1279 Colonial Rd., 613-835-2766, www.navanfair.com.

  |  August 11, 2010 at 1:45 pm

An adventure in urban art, a picnic with Nikki, and three other wicked weekend events

URBAN ART @ MINTO PARK (FREE!)
Check out the local art scene while basking in the sun. This fresh air market brings 50 artists and artisans together to sell their wares, which include paintings, jewellery, puppets, glassware, and more. Some of the participants are veterans, while others are looking to make a name for themselves. July 24, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Minto Park (Elgin Street at Gilmour Street). www.urbanartinmintopark.blogspot.com

Nikki Yanofsky joins the NAC Orchestra for Orchestras in the Park.

ORCHESTRAS IN THE PARK (FREE!)
Even if you cringed every time “I Believe” played against a video montage of Olympic moments last winter, you gotta give Nikki Yanofsky credit. The Montreal signer has wowed audiences with her vocal range — and managed to stay in the limelight sans tantrums or other immature behaviour that we’ve come to expect from starlets. And the outfits! (Please, o please, rock some Converse high-tops and/or sequined soccer shorts this weekend!) Nikki will be accompanied by the NAC Orchestra (Edwin Outwater, conductor). So pack a picnic and help bring a Hollywood Bowl vibe to LeBreton Flats. July 24 at 7:30 p.m. LeBreton Flats Park. www.nac-cna.ca

HERBFEST
Did you know the Herb of the Year is dill? Ever since 1995 the International Herb Association has chosen a herb to highlight, and this year dill gets to shine. Learn this and a whole lot more at the 15th annual Herbfest: A Celebration of Healthy Living. This year’s festivities start with a presentation by the much-loved Gay Cook, a chef cook-off, and a discussion with Diana Beresford-Kroeger — a botanist and self-defined “renegade scientist.” In the afternoon, sample local cheeses with a cheese sommelier, and learn about how to aid digestion with the help of herbs. Between events, listen to live music and enjoy garden tours. July 25, 9 p.m. to 5 p.m. $5, family pass $15. The Herb Garden, 3840 Old Almonte Rd., Almonte. www.herbfest.info

STING
The former Police frontman takes the stage for a stunning show that pairs this long-time talent with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. Try not to swoon as Maestro Steven Mercurio conducts the musicians through classics like “Every Little Things She Does is Magic” and “Fields of Gold.” July 25 at 8 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.). $58.30-$153.30. Scotiabank Place, 1000 Palladium Dr., 613-599-3267. www.scotiabankplace.com

THE ANDREWS BROTHERS
Who doesn’t enjoy a good comedy about men in drag? Max, Lawrence, and Patrick Andrews are rehearsing for a USO show in the South Pacific with pin-up girl Peggy Jones. The boys are just temporary stand-ins, until they learn the show’s real headliners, The Andrews Sisters, won’t be able to make it out. The show can’t go on, unless there’s some way for the stars to be replaced… July 22 to Aug. 14. $38, seniors $33, and students $23. The Gladstone, 910 Gladstone Ave., 613-233-4523. www.thegladstone.ca

  |  July 21, 2010 at 11:59 am

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