We first came to Bonavista together in 2017 when I was invited to Newfoundland to create a collection of wallpaper, and Johnny’s first visit was over 20 years ago when he backpacked and hitch hiked across the island. We had no idea at the time, but little seeds had been planted.
During the pandemic, we had a lot of conversations and reflections about the things that are important to us. Like many people, we recognized how fleeting life can be and decided we would like to create something different for our next chapter. We came back to Bonavista for 6 weeks in the summer of 2022 and during that trip, made our decision to make the move. Our cross-Canada move from Ontario to Newfoundland has been a unique and life-changing journey of a lifetime.
Bonavista is a truly special place, located within the spectacular UNESCO Discovery Global Geopark. The Bonavista Peninsula is a region of wild, natural beauty and we regularly experience feelings of enchantment and wonder. There is a well established arts and creative community here including Union House Arts in Port Union which I am thrilled to be a board member of. There’s also the Bonavista Biennale, which is a public art event taking place every two years on the peninsula. People here are authentic, kind, generous, hearty, soulful and have a great sense of humour. We have made lots of new friends, some of whom have lived here their whole life and others who have moved here like us. We are embracing any opportunity to have new experiences and learn about our new home.
We acknowledge that the land we occupy is a part of Ktaqmkuk (the island of Newfoundland), traditional unceded Mi’kmaw territory. We also acknowledge with respect the diverse histories and cultures of the Beothuk, Mi’kmaq, Innu and Inuit of this province. We commit ourselves to learning and becoming better allies in the spirit of truth and reconciliation.
We understand our responsibility to be a part of caring for this special place and feel incredibly grateful and lucky to be here.
