A Perfect Sunday Afternoon

Jul 20, 2010 by Natasha

Sunday is a day perfect for relaxation.
The last two weekends didn’t really allow for any downtime and rest periods, it’s been very hectic especially with Baby H’s first birthday parties.

But this Sunday couldn’t come any sooner. My family and I took a trip down to Calabogie and attended Nelly’s photography show at Barnet Cottage.

A diverse group of photos were displayed on easels and around the cottage’s walls, with some pressed onto mat boards and others transferred onto canvas. I personally liked the canvas displays, as they had a unique feel to them that matched the subject.

There was a beautiful photo of an older barn that looked abandoned and was surrounded by trees behind an old bridge. The image popped off of the mat, and I was taken in as soon as I saw the photo. I wanted to know more about the place, and what had happened to the barn since it looked completely vacant. I wanted to know more about the surroundings and more. I consider this my favourite piece on display, because the image caught my attention immediately then made me think about it, what’s beyond it and my imagination ran off with the rest.

If you’re unfamiliar with Nelly’s work, you’ll note that she has a strong interest in old and unique looking rural views. There are several barns and rustic sheds in her “Valleyscapes” sets, right along a few landscape photographs and water scenes. It probably sounds strange coming from me, a friend of hers, but I think her work is not to be missed and should be enjoyed by all!

The event itself was put on by the Calabogie Women’s institute that organized the location, time, food and entertainment. A local radio DJ and musician, Dai Bassett, was on site entertaining us with great music and cracking the odd joke here and there. His Welsh/Irish style of singing complimented the scene in which the show happened, and went along with the valley-feel of Nelly’s displayed photographs.

Barnet Cottage itself is stunning. It’s a great place to visit and enjoy the beautiful beach with clear warm water. Baby H had a great time floating around in his turtle. The park housing the cottage also has volleyball nets set up, a park for kids, a few gazebos scattered across and a butterfly garden.

All in all, I felt like I went away on a mini vacation today, and it honestly doesn’t get any better than that on a hot Sunday. The family and I will look forward to our return a few weekends form now to enjoy the views and have a picnic there.