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Bearinger Farm - Mannheim
This painting is near and dear to my heart. This was my grandparent’s farm where my mother was born. Later my Aunt Jessie and her husband Howard Bearinger took over the farm and raised their seven children here. Every summer I spent my summer holidays at the Mannheim farm. I loved it so much. We had such a great time there. Later my cousin David and his wife Debbi lived there and raised their girls on this acreage. A few years ago the farm was sold. I was saddened but understood. Then the new owners came in and cleared the property of the old black spruce trees, the barns, silos and storage bins and the house. I was devastated. It was like a mortal blow to my heart. I asked my family if anyone had photos of the barns, the house? Anything? Nothing could be found other than a little piece here or there in the background of family snapshots.. until my great nephew found a photo of his Dad combining wheat and in the background was this image. The photo was small so Dave did his magic and printed out a clear 11” X 17” photo for me to work from. I had to paint this. It was a labor of love. When I paint I put a part of me in each image and the painting becomes a part of me. Forever in my heart and mind. I have made this one of my latest Limited Edition prints so I can share this reminder of our life on the Bearinger Farm at Mannheim. It is available to family but also the public.
S/N 200 copies, 4 A/P – image size is 12” X 32” – Regular retail $150.00 plus applicable Tax
S/N 200 copies, 4 A/P – image size is 12” X 32” – Regular retail $150.00 plus applicable Tax
A Pair of Farm Horses
Long before the tractors and other farm machinery were invented the only source of power for the tiller of the soil was sheer muscular power. Men, women and children all worked from dawn till dusk in the fields, the barns or sheds. First to help lighten the work load was a yoke of oxen, then a team of horses. Steam power created great change too.
Everyday farmers liked horses because they were intelligent and adaptable to change. Most farmers didn’t own pure bred registered stock but rather had rag tag teams of draught horses or mules. Sometime they even put the buggy horse to work in the field as well.
These are the heads of a team that work hard day in and day out. Love them for their strong bodies and big hearts. Hope you will too.
Edition size 100 s/n limited edition prints – image size: ” X ” - each $ pending
Everyday farmers liked horses because they were intelligent and adaptable to change. Most farmers didn’t own pure bred registered stock but rather had rag tag teams of draught horses or mules. Sometime they even put the buggy horse to work in the field as well.
These are the heads of a team that work hard day in and day out. Love them for their strong bodies and big hearts. Hope you will too.
Edition size 100 s/n limited edition prints – image size: ” X ” - each $ pending
Burgundy Lady Slipper
Dave and I attended the London Orchid Society Show in March of 2008 at the Western Fair Complex. That’s where we saw this big, bold beauty.
I couldn’t wait to get back to the studio to see how our photos turned out. They were awesome. I couldn’t wait to begin painting them, but alas, I had commissions to do first.
I have a warped sense of humour, the cartoonist in me I guess. When I look at this bold orchid I see a well-to-do man in a burgundy smoking jacket welcoming his guests to his home. This type of orchid consumes flies and other flying insects for the protein. The insects are trapped in the nectar and can’t get out. After a struggle to survive, they die.
Like all things in life, there are two sides . . . the beauty and the ugliness . . everything in balance.
I like to look at the beauty and the humour. What about you?
- Jenny
Original - 9 3/4" x 10 3/4"
Print size - 9" x 10"
I couldn’t wait to get back to the studio to see how our photos turned out. They were awesome. I couldn’t wait to begin painting them, but alas, I had commissions to do first.
I have a warped sense of humour, the cartoonist in me I guess. When I look at this bold orchid I see a well-to-do man in a burgundy smoking jacket welcoming his guests to his home. This type of orchid consumes flies and other flying insects for the protein. The insects are trapped in the nectar and can’t get out. After a struggle to survive, they die.
Like all things in life, there are two sides . . . the beauty and the ugliness . . everything in balance.
I like to look at the beauty and the humour. What about you?
- Jenny
Original - 9 3/4" x 10 3/4"
Print size - 9" x 10"
Calico Barn
Dave and I like to go for drives around Elgin County country side whenever we can. We always have our camera ready. I try to paint every day and every day I see something new, in a different light or a different season. My Life will not be long enough to paint all that I love here in the country side of Elgin County. In October of 2008 we were driving back from east Elgin, taking the back roads. We were on the road to the St. Thomas Golf and Country Club. We followed the curves and there on the south west side was this barn. The fields were dull browns and harvest gold but the old barn shone a myriad of brilliant, dappled calico colours in the golden sunlight. Shades of red oxide, scarlet, alizarin crimson, magnesium blue, inky Paynes grey and raw sienna. Who knew rusted steel could look so good? I loved the texture of the harvested fields and the leafless sumacs. Old barns are disappearing at an alarming rate. It is my mission in life to preserve our vanishing, ever changing rural landscape for the next generation to appreciate.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: ” X ” - each $ pending
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: ” X ” - each $ pending
Christmas Caboose
When I was 16 I worked at Paul’s Food Bar next to the L&PS Railway Station on Talbot and Moore St. in St. Thomas. I took coffees over to the staff and the BX Tower. Almost everyone in St. Thomas had a relative or neighbor that work on the rails. St. Thomas was the Railway Capital.
The London Port Stanley Railway delivered coal and oil from Port Stanley to St. Thomas and London. Passengers from London rode on their line in the summer to visit the beach and the famous Stork Club. Today a dedicated crew of volunteers restore and operate the Port Stanley Terminal Rail. They offer rides to St. Thomas and back, murder mystery dinners, visits with the Easter Bunny, Easter Egg hunts and at Christmas a ride on the Christmas Express. You can even book a dinner for a private party. This painting shows the caboose decked out for the Christmas season. Check it out for yourself. The ride is awesome.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 9” X 14” - $100.00
The London Port Stanley Railway delivered coal and oil from Port Stanley to St. Thomas and London. Passengers from London rode on their line in the summer to visit the beach and the famous Stork Club. Today a dedicated crew of volunteers restore and operate the Port Stanley Terminal Rail. They offer rides to St. Thomas and back, murder mystery dinners, visits with the Easter Bunny, Easter Egg hunts and at Christmas a ride on the Christmas Express. You can even book a dinner for a private party. This painting shows the caboose decked out for the Christmas season. Check it out for yourself. The ride is awesome.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 9” X 14” - $100.00
Coach Dad & Plowman Son - Ford Tractor
The county held their match in 2009 at the farms of Tom Bradish near Talbotville. Dave and I got up and hurried through breakfast and gathered our cameras and loaded my scooter. We were off and what a fine day it was. The turnout of plowmen was excellent. We had a wonderful day. 2010’s county match was held on Sparta Line in August. We went for an hour but then had to leave to get to Milton for the heavy horse event at the Country Heritage Park, but that’s another story. I loved both the antique horse plowing and the many and varied antique tractors and plows. Such an assortment to please any and all fans particular fancy!
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 13 1/2” X 18” - each $135.00
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 13 1/2” X 18” - each $135.00
Corn Crib on Marsh Line - Dunwich
Dave and I often travel Marsh Line on the way to his sisters or when we go to West Lorne.
I like country roads because there is so much to see.
We spot Red-tailed Hawks, pheasants, wild turkeys, geese and ducks not to mention families of white tailed deer. The fields, the swampy areas and the bush are different every time we motor down the road.
I loved the look of the old corn crib and the little sheds, the trees and the field.
Because we live with these images every day we tend to take them for granted. I hope scenes like this will be here for my children and their children to enjoy as much as Dave and I do.
Our rural landscaping is changing and I want to record what we have here and now. - Jenny
I like country roads because there is so much to see.
We spot Red-tailed Hawks, pheasants, wild turkeys, geese and ducks not to mention families of white tailed deer. The fields, the swampy areas and the bush are different every time we motor down the road.
I loved the look of the old corn crib and the little sheds, the trees and the field.
Because we live with these images every day we tend to take them for granted. I hope scenes like this will be here for my children and their children to enjoy as much as Dave and I do.
Our rural landscaping is changing and I want to record what we have here and now. - Jenny
Donald Graham & Marianne
Wallacetown Fair wouldn’t be the same without Don Graham and his Percheron horses. Don once delivered milk in Dutton. He has given hay rides for years at Christmas time throughout the village and can always be see showing at the fair. The truck in the background is just as familiar as the horses, as McDonald Trucking has been here forever.
What would we ever do without them?
Mary Anne is braiding the mane and adding the fancy ribbon pieces.
I fondly remember my father’s father sitting down on a kitchen chair with me standing between his knees while he braided my hair. He would ask what kind of braids and how many I wanted. Did I also want ribbons and where? He was accustom to grooming horses and told me a little filly like me wasn’t much different with two exceptions. I didn’t bite him nor did I kick and stomp my feet on his shins and toes. After I was done I received a linseed lozenge or a scotch mint. Yum! Yum!
Those were the days.
What would we ever do without them?
Mary Anne is braiding the mane and adding the fancy ribbon pieces.
I fondly remember my father’s father sitting down on a kitchen chair with me standing between his knees while he braided my hair. He would ask what kind of braids and how many I wanted. Did I also want ribbons and where? He was accustom to grooming horses and told me a little filly like me wasn’t much different with two exceptions. I didn’t bite him nor did I kick and stomp my feet on his shins and toes. After I was done I received a linseed lozenge or a scotch mint. Yum! Yum!
Those were the days.
Garnet Solitaire - Woodland Setting
Jenny writes: “When Dave popped THE question in 1966 the diamond of choice was a solitaire . . one diamond perched on top of a gold pedestal. Alas my fingers were too short and heavy (arthritis) that the style didn’t suit. Instead I chose an old fashioned setting that was exactly what made my hand look good and my heart sing.
Years later we were out walking in the beautiful Carolinian forest and ravines near Backus-Page House and John Pearce Park. We were taking photographs of flora and fauna so when the cold winter winds blew, I could sit in my cozy studio and paint delicate woodland blooms while remembering our wonderful day in the woods. This lovely single red trillium, so alone amongst the other white flowers, reminded me of those solitaire rings and the deep red hue was akin to a garnet . . .ergo the title . .”Garnet Solitaire – Woodland Setting”.
When the sun shines and the birds are singing and the floor of the forest turns green dotted with blooming wild flowers, why not take a stroll on the many trails around Backus-Page and discover for yourself the beauty of nature and the woodland setting.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: ” X ” - each $ pending
Years later we were out walking in the beautiful Carolinian forest and ravines near Backus-Page House and John Pearce Park. We were taking photographs of flora and fauna so when the cold winter winds blew, I could sit in my cozy studio and paint delicate woodland blooms while remembering our wonderful day in the woods. This lovely single red trillium, so alone amongst the other white flowers, reminded me of those solitaire rings and the deep red hue was akin to a garnet . . .ergo the title . .”Garnet Solitaire – Woodland Setting”.
When the sun shines and the birds are singing and the floor of the forest turns green dotted with blooming wild flowers, why not take a stroll on the many trails around Backus-Page and discover for yourself the beauty of nature and the woodland setting.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: ” X ” - each $ pending
Girl in Eyelet Dress
Dave had an Ontario Town Crier’s Competition in Amherstburg to coincide with a special anniversary at Fort Malden.
The Black Museum was also celebrating and the park was full of people in various period outfits.
I asked this young girl’s father if I could photograph his children with a view to doing a painting of either or all.
Every time the children saw me they stood at attention and looked their perfect best but that was not what I was after.
The day was long and the sun was hot. As the event wound down we all became weary. Then I spotted the girl in the white eyelet dress. She was tired and bored and her feet were sore from walking around bare foot. She settled down on a chair and I took several shots as the sun reflected off of her wayward, kinky, curly hair. What a sweet heart.
It is moments like this we remember . . . the imperfections of being a child rather than the stiff posed model.
I loved painting the frothy feminine eyelet lace and the young girl’s puckered brow and pursed lips. A glimpse of another era . . . an idyllic time . . . a carefree childhood of simple pleasures. What every child deserves.
TA! TA! For now. –Jenny
The Black Museum was also celebrating and the park was full of people in various period outfits.
I asked this young girl’s father if I could photograph his children with a view to doing a painting of either or all.
Every time the children saw me they stood at attention and looked their perfect best but that was not what I was after.
The day was long and the sun was hot. As the event wound down we all became weary. Then I spotted the girl in the white eyelet dress. She was tired and bored and her feet were sore from walking around bare foot. She settled down on a chair and I took several shots as the sun reflected off of her wayward, kinky, curly hair. What a sweet heart.
It is moments like this we remember . . . the imperfections of being a child rather than the stiff posed model.
I loved painting the frothy feminine eyelet lace and the young girl’s puckered brow and pursed lips. A glimpse of another era . . . an idyllic time . . . a carefree childhood of simple pleasures. What every child deserves.
TA! TA! For now. –Jenny
Harvard Fly By
I painted this Harvard fly-by, in the cross formation, to honour the men and women who served in the RCAF during WW II. My father-in-law joined the RAF and when Canada entered the war he transferred to the RCAF. Our good friend Lorne Spicer was also a fly-man. Today this area that was once the No. 4 Fingal Bomb and Gunnery School is now managed by the Lower Thames Conservation Authority. My painting shows the service road entrance looking south off Fingal Line.
The Fingal Wildlife Management Area was once a military base used by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). In 1965, the area was acquired by the Ministry of Natural Resources, and has since been restored to wildlife habitat and opened to the public. At 293 hectares, and scattered with 27 km of trails, the site is popular with naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts who can come to see the remnants of the RCAF base, wildflowers, birds and other wildlife.
The restoration of the site has been a long process that has included the removal of military infrastructure and the restoration of the natural area. Ponds were constructed, trees and shrubs were planted, and hedgerows, food and cover plots and brush piles were created. Along with deciduous and coniferous forests and plantations, tall grass prairies and ponds, the site contains approximately 160 hectares of active agricultural land that is used for demonstration purposes. From Elgin Tourism website
“No. 4 Fingal Bombing & Gunnery School was built as a unit of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan established for the royal Canadian Air Force at a site west of Fingal in Southwold Township. The School operated from November 25, 1940 to February 17, 1945, during that time over 6,000 non-pilot aircrew members graduated from the school. The Fingal Bombing & Gunnery School, with its main station in Fingal, also included bombing ranges in Dutton, Melbourne, Frome and Tempo. There was also a Marine Section at Port Stanley and bombing and gunnery ranges on Lake Erie.”
Quote from The Fingal Observer, April 15, 1941, Fingal Bombing School fonds, R6 S6 Sh4 B1 F3 – Elgin County Archives
Edition size 300s/n limited edition prints – image size: 13 1/2” X 19” - each $145.00
The Fingal Wildlife Management Area was once a military base used by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). In 1965, the area was acquired by the Ministry of Natural Resources, and has since been restored to wildlife habitat and opened to the public. At 293 hectares, and scattered with 27 km of trails, the site is popular with naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts who can come to see the remnants of the RCAF base, wildflowers, birds and other wildlife.
The restoration of the site has been a long process that has included the removal of military infrastructure and the restoration of the natural area. Ponds were constructed, trees and shrubs were planted, and hedgerows, food and cover plots and brush piles were created. Along with deciduous and coniferous forests and plantations, tall grass prairies and ponds, the site contains approximately 160 hectares of active agricultural land that is used for demonstration purposes. From Elgin Tourism website
“No. 4 Fingal Bombing & Gunnery School was built as a unit of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan established for the royal Canadian Air Force at a site west of Fingal in Southwold Township. The School operated from November 25, 1940 to February 17, 1945, during that time over 6,000 non-pilot aircrew members graduated from the school. The Fingal Bombing & Gunnery School, with its main station in Fingal, also included bombing ranges in Dutton, Melbourne, Frome and Tempo. There was also a Marine Section at Port Stanley and bombing and gunnery ranges on Lake Erie.”
Quote from The Fingal Observer, April 15, 1941, Fingal Bombing School fonds, R6 S6 Sh4 B1 F3 – Elgin County Archives
Edition size 300s/n limited edition prints – image size: 13 1/2” X 19” - each $145.00
Hector McNeil -1984 IPM
J.D. Ross Farm, Teviotdale, Wellington County Match – © J. Phillips
Dave and I went to see Mom and Dad at the ploughing match. The air was crisp, you could hear the squeak of the leather and the clink of the harness chains and the quiet snuffle of the horse with a “Gee” and a “Haw” cried forth now and again. Sometimes you could hear a ploughman holler,”Bess get over there!”
I loved those sounds!
The eyes had a feast as well. There were colourful tents to house the various displays, many with corporate flags snapping in the breeze, while country folk and city alike took in the demonstrations of agricultural prowess. Farmers view big hulking equipment with bigger price tags while sales reps try to pry more bank dollars from him, while his spouse eyes the exhibits of handiwork and culinary arts.
The nose, every once in a while, receives some slightly malodorous whiff that is followed swiftly by tantalizing odours from the food booths . . . . the candy concessions . . the popcorn machines. . there’s something for everyone.
Hector McNeil, a well-known auctioneer, ploughed with a team of Belgian horses. Rags hanging from the bits flap in the breeze to keep away the pesky flies.
I love the pageantry of the whole event. I have attended ploughing matches since I was a child in the 1950’s. Time flies when you are having fun and we were that day!
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 12” X 18” - each $135.00
Dave and I went to see Mom and Dad at the ploughing match. The air was crisp, you could hear the squeak of the leather and the clink of the harness chains and the quiet snuffle of the horse with a “Gee” and a “Haw” cried forth now and again. Sometimes you could hear a ploughman holler,”Bess get over there!”
I loved those sounds!
The eyes had a feast as well. There were colourful tents to house the various displays, many with corporate flags snapping in the breeze, while country folk and city alike took in the demonstrations of agricultural prowess. Farmers view big hulking equipment with bigger price tags while sales reps try to pry more bank dollars from him, while his spouse eyes the exhibits of handiwork and culinary arts.
The nose, every once in a while, receives some slightly malodorous whiff that is followed swiftly by tantalizing odours from the food booths . . . . the candy concessions . . the popcorn machines. . there’s something for everyone.
Hector McNeil, a well-known auctioneer, ploughed with a team of Belgian horses. Rags hanging from the bits flap in the breeze to keep away the pesky flies.
I love the pageantry of the whole event. I have attended ploughing matches since I was a child in the 1950’s. Time flies when you are having fun and we were that day!
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 12” X 18” - each $135.00
Hepburns Horses – 1940 IPM.jpg
In 1940 Mitch Hepburn was Premier of Ontario. The war was on but the International Plowing Match was still held. It was important to boost morale, but primarily to show people the most efficient and productive methods of producing food for the home front and overseas.
The Royal Canadian Air Force used the buildings of the newly constructed Ontario Hospital in St. Thomas for a Technical Training Centre. This was the site of the first International Plowing Match in Elgin County.
Premier Hepburn’s horses led the opening parade. Bill Tapsell, Hepburn’s foreman was the driver. Bill’s brother Dell drove for Budweiser. The horses were featured on the 1940 program for the International Plowing Match and all the horses were recent champions at the World Competition in Chicago.
---
Jenny appreciated all the time and technical advice she received from Bill Tapsell, Ken Smith of the London Free Press, the helpful staff at the Military Museum and Johanns Graphics. Original was bought by Paul Hepburn.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 12” X 24” - each $145.00
The Royal Canadian Air Force used the buildings of the newly constructed Ontario Hospital in St. Thomas for a Technical Training Centre. This was the site of the first International Plowing Match in Elgin County.
Premier Hepburn’s horses led the opening parade. Bill Tapsell, Hepburn’s foreman was the driver. Bill’s brother Dell drove for Budweiser. The horses were featured on the 1940 program for the International Plowing Match and all the horses were recent champions at the World Competition in Chicago.
---
Jenny appreciated all the time and technical advice she received from Bill Tapsell, Ken Smith of the London Free Press, the helpful staff at the Military Museum and Johanns Graphics. Original was bought by Paul Hepburn.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 12” X 24” - each $145.00
Hibiscus Blossom
Roseanne, my neighbour here on Dutton’s main street, had a huge hibiscus potted plant in her window.
Every time I went by I looked for the changes in the many buds. I saw this particular one bloom. My, the colours were great. Raspberry and peach. This appealed to my senses.
I took photos of many of the buds at various stages. They were all gorgeous.
This is one I did in water colours.
The petals remind me of a diaphanous dancer’s dress. Love it!!
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: ” X ” - each $ pending
Every time I went by I looked for the changes in the many buds. I saw this particular one bloom. My, the colours were great. Raspberry and peach. This appealed to my senses.
I took photos of many of the buds at various stages. They were all gorgeous.
This is one I did in water colours.
The petals remind me of a diaphanous dancer’s dress. Love it!!
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: ” X ” - each $ pending
Honouring Elgin’s Past Provincial Ploughing Matches
Jenny’s painting features a weathered ploughman and his team of Clydesdale horses ploughing at a provincial match. Onlookers from both city and country observe and compare each entry. In the background is the famous tent city with exhibiters’ flags flapping in the brisk fall breeze; glimpses of attendees’ pickups, autos and RVs.
Can you feel the excitement?
The first Provincial Ploughing Match in Elgin County was held in 1940 on the grounds of the newly constructed Ontario Psychiatric Hospital, across the road from then Premier Mitch Hepburn’s own farm. Mitch’s Liberal government leased the yet unoccupied hospital to the federal government for a technical training centre for the Canadian Air Force. The surrounding Hospital farm lands were ideal for the tented city and the ploughing competitions. Hepburn’s eight horse Clydesdale hitch led the opening parade.
Artist Jenny Phillips’ grandfather, uncle and father traveled from Waterloo County to compete with their teams of horses. Jenny’s grandfather won a prize and her fourteen year old father took home the youngest ploughman prize.
Later at the 1960 match held in Springfield, in the eastern section of Elgin, Jenny’s father again competed. The Springfield match held the first ‘Queen of the Furrow’ competition with Linda Prong, from Elgin, capturing the crown. Linda, her coach/father-in-law, Ray Prong and Minister of Agriculture (1956-1961) Wm. A. Goodfellow, MLA for Northumberland, are seen in the painting, to the left of the plough team. 1960 was also the launch year for the John Deere 3010 New Generation tractor. The Elgin Ploughman’s Association has a similar restored tractor that will be raffled off in 2010.
In 1985 St. Thomas and Elgin again hosted a provincial match, this time behind the Ford Motor Assembly Plant at Talbotville. The RV Park that is enjoyed by so many each year was initiated there in 1985 and to honour the twenty-fifth anniversary of that occasion, Jenny has included an RV and a bit of a camper by the right rumps of the horses.
In 1985 both Jenny and her father had commercial exhibits; Jenny for her art work depicting the rural lifestyle and her Dad with his hot tub business. Jenny won first prize for her popular exhibit and is extremely honoured and excited to be a part of the 2010 International Ploughing Match September 21-25 in St. Thomas and Elgin County.
Elgin has a history of great, enthusiastic farmers and ploughmen, both at the township, county and provincial levels. These men and women will again bring focus and honour to their community while educating and entertaining the urban and rural visitors. Plan to attend for a great time.
Jenny Phillips was the feature artist for the 2010 International Ploughing Match. Original oil on canvas sold before the match. Some limited edition prints are still available.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 12” X 18” - each $145.00
Can you feel the excitement?
The first Provincial Ploughing Match in Elgin County was held in 1940 on the grounds of the newly constructed Ontario Psychiatric Hospital, across the road from then Premier Mitch Hepburn’s own farm. Mitch’s Liberal government leased the yet unoccupied hospital to the federal government for a technical training centre for the Canadian Air Force. The surrounding Hospital farm lands were ideal for the tented city and the ploughing competitions. Hepburn’s eight horse Clydesdale hitch led the opening parade.
Artist Jenny Phillips’ grandfather, uncle and father traveled from Waterloo County to compete with their teams of horses. Jenny’s grandfather won a prize and her fourteen year old father took home the youngest ploughman prize.
Later at the 1960 match held in Springfield, in the eastern section of Elgin, Jenny’s father again competed. The Springfield match held the first ‘Queen of the Furrow’ competition with Linda Prong, from Elgin, capturing the crown. Linda, her coach/father-in-law, Ray Prong and Minister of Agriculture (1956-1961) Wm. A. Goodfellow, MLA for Northumberland, are seen in the painting, to the left of the plough team. 1960 was also the launch year for the John Deere 3010 New Generation tractor. The Elgin Ploughman’s Association has a similar restored tractor that will be raffled off in 2010.
In 1985 St. Thomas and Elgin again hosted a provincial match, this time behind the Ford Motor Assembly Plant at Talbotville. The RV Park that is enjoyed by so many each year was initiated there in 1985 and to honour the twenty-fifth anniversary of that occasion, Jenny has included an RV and a bit of a camper by the right rumps of the horses.
In 1985 both Jenny and her father had commercial exhibits; Jenny for her art work depicting the rural lifestyle and her Dad with his hot tub business. Jenny won first prize for her popular exhibit and is extremely honoured and excited to be a part of the 2010 International Ploughing Match September 21-25 in St. Thomas and Elgin County.
Elgin has a history of great, enthusiastic farmers and ploughmen, both at the township, county and provincial levels. These men and women will again bring focus and honour to their community while educating and entertaining the urban and rural visitors. Plan to attend for a great time.
Jenny Phillips was the feature artist for the 2010 International Ploughing Match. Original oil on canvas sold before the match. Some limited edition prints are still available.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 12” X 18” - each $145.00
Lady Slipper & Ferns
From the early days when Mrs. Jamieson traveled through the wilderness writing letters back home, along with her sister who sketched the botanicals, folks have been interested in unusual flowers. They gathered species to take back to England. They sketched and painted these various orchid beauties in their natural setting. Today because of development, pollution and the loss of bogs and ideal growing conditions, many like this tropical orchid of the lady slipper family, no longer grow in the wild. We are fortunate Ontario still has natural patches of the yellow, pink and some of the showy lady slippers. There may be others unknown to me. We, as citizens of Ontario, need to protect key areas like our wetlands and bogs, our woodlots and our water sources. We have much here, in this province, but without change, in the blink of an eye, species could disappear.
Dave and I were at an orchid show in London (2008) and I didn't get the name of this orchid but I liked its style. I would encourage each and every Ontarian to turn off the television and take a quiet walk on the wild side in a nearby conservation area, bush lot or park. Discover nature and rediscover yourself.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 8 3/4” X 10 3/4” - each $135.00
Dave and I were at an orchid show in London (2008) and I didn't get the name of this orchid but I liked its style. I would encourage each and every Ontarian to turn off the television and take a quiet walk on the wild side in a nearby conservation area, bush lot or park. Discover nature and rediscover yourself.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 8 3/4” X 10 3/4” - each $135.00
McIntyre Feed Lot
Many years ago I used to attend the Aylmer Market with my paintings, Barbie doll clothes and little wooden toys that David made. I had my table beside my Mom and Dad’s hot tub booth. I got to know all the regular vendors over the eight years I attended the market.
One of those vendors was the Cookie King from Appin. My kids were all small then and they consumed cookies faster than I could bake them. One day I needed a box of cookies and I didn’t want to wait till market on Tuesday, so I drove up Currie Road to Appin. I always carried my camera with me so I didn’t miss any great shots. Was I ever glad I did that day.
How many of these old feed lots like this are left? Not too many.
I love the abandon look of the place with the weeds sprouting up every where. Notice the old-fashioned gas pump, a real collector’s item today. I know the feedlot had a colourful history but this was about the old style rambling buildings and fences.
This is just another part of our agricultural scenery that’s disappearing.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: ” X ” - each $ pending
One of those vendors was the Cookie King from Appin. My kids were all small then and they consumed cookies faster than I could bake them. One day I needed a box of cookies and I didn’t want to wait till market on Tuesday, so I drove up Currie Road to Appin. I always carried my camera with me so I didn’t miss any great shots. Was I ever glad I did that day.
How many of these old feed lots like this are left? Not too many.
I love the abandon look of the place with the weeds sprouting up every where. Notice the old-fashioned gas pump, a real collector’s item today. I know the feedlot had a colourful history but this was about the old style rambling buildings and fences.
This is just another part of our agricultural scenery that’s disappearing.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: ” X ” - each $ pending
Old Tobacco Barns - Pioneer Line, Aldborough
I was running late as I pushed our old Econoline van down Pioneer Line west to Rodney for a swim meet. I had a van full of swim competition gear as well as the entire Dutton swim team. I noticed a particular scene that I had been eyeing for some time. The sun gilded everything with a magical golden hue so I quickly pulled the van over to the shoulder and parked. I grabbed my camera and started shooting scenes of the old tobacco barns. Tobacco was first farmed in the western end of Elgin around the turn of the century. That was so long ago but the memories live on. The barns are now torn down but I can see them still in my mind every time I drive west on Pioneer Line. Life is so fleeting we have to capture the now, because who knows what tomorrow holds.
While I was lost in the wonder of the scene before me, my frustrated daughters and the other swim team members were changing into their swim suits behind make-shift beach towel privacy screens. The girls kept calling “Mo-th-er, how could you? Now? We’ll miss the meet and lose by default!!!”
I took the shots I wanted and scampered back to the driver’s seat and fired up the van. The team members and their towels flew into the van and we arrived with minutes to spare. By the way, the team won their races. I like to think it was because I had them all pumped up and ready to go. Great memories.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 8” X 24” - each $145.00
While I was lost in the wonder of the scene before me, my frustrated daughters and the other swim team members were changing into their swim suits behind make-shift beach towel privacy screens. The girls kept calling “Mo-th-er, how could you? Now? We’ll miss the meet and lose by default!!!”
I took the shots I wanted and scampered back to the driver’s seat and fired up the van. The team members and their towels flew into the van and we arrived with minutes to spare. By the way, the team won their races. I like to think it was because I had them all pumped up and ready to go. Great memories.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 8” X 24” - each $145.00
Purple & White Orchids
I know orchid folks will know all the Latin names for the different orchids but most of my customers refer to them by colour. I did take Latin in high school and actually did quite well in that regard . . . but that was a long time ago. Back in those days of yore, we girls all dreamed of a dance corsage with blooms like these. Great bragging rights if a fella’ forked over enough cash for a showy spray of orchids.
These beauties were not from someone’s corsage but rather growing in a pot. Dave and I enjoy going to shows like the annual March Orchid Show at Western Fair sponsored by the London Orchid Growers. What a feast for the eyes. Hundreds of orchids from around the world, rare local ones too, are to be found here in abundance.
This is a great place to get close and personal with exotic blooms that would otherwise be found in tropical rainforests or remote, barely accessible areas. I came away from that show on an ultimate high . . .almost a sensory overload. It is a great way to chase away the winter blahs.
Hope you too appreciate their beauty. These blooms never wilt or fade.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 10 3/48” X 13 1/4” - each $140.00
These beauties were not from someone’s corsage but rather growing in a pot. Dave and I enjoy going to shows like the annual March Orchid Show at Western Fair sponsored by the London Orchid Growers. What a feast for the eyes. Hundreds of orchids from around the world, rare local ones too, are to be found here in abundance.
This is a great place to get close and personal with exotic blooms that would otherwise be found in tropical rainforests or remote, barely accessible areas. I came away from that show on an ultimate high . . .almost a sensory overload. It is a great way to chase away the winter blahs.
Hope you too appreciate their beauty. These blooms never wilt or fade.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 10 3/48” X 13 1/4” - each $140.00
Sheep Judging
Wallacetown Fair Grounds -
One of my favourite places to find potential painting subjects is Wallacetown Fair. This wonderful historic country fair is full of colour, history, people and excitement. When my kids were teenagers they would argue about the excitement because they thought it was hokey. However, as adults, they love to come back and connect with their roots, meet old friends and talk over old times. The children all love the fair because Mom and Dad can afford to treat them to all of the rides. There aren’t that many and . . the kids also love to see all the animals up close.
This painting came about because there was a handy parking spot right near the sheep judging area and I have mobility problems. That year I didn’t get to see the heavy horses or a whole lot. Sometimes the weather was threatening and there was a chill in the air but you could smell the fried onions from the Lions booth and now and then, a whiff of horse manure. Don’t laugh. I like all those scents because they trigger memories.
I like the shape and texture of the sheep’s’ fleece and the way the shepherds control their sheep to show the best lines.
What do you like about the fair?
Do you have special childhood memories of Wallacetown Fair? I do.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 8 9/16” X 18” - each $125.00
One of my favourite places to find potential painting subjects is Wallacetown Fair. This wonderful historic country fair is full of colour, history, people and excitement. When my kids were teenagers they would argue about the excitement because they thought it was hokey. However, as adults, they love to come back and connect with their roots, meet old friends and talk over old times. The children all love the fair because Mom and Dad can afford to treat them to all of the rides. There aren’t that many and . . the kids also love to see all the animals up close.
This painting came about because there was a handy parking spot right near the sheep judging area and I have mobility problems. That year I didn’t get to see the heavy horses or a whole lot. Sometimes the weather was threatening and there was a chill in the air but you could smell the fried onions from the Lions booth and now and then, a whiff of horse manure. Don’t laugh. I like all those scents because they trigger memories.
I like the shape and texture of the sheep’s’ fleece and the way the shepherds control their sheep to show the best lines.
What do you like about the fair?
Do you have special childhood memories of Wallacetown Fair? I do.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 8 9/16” X 18” - each $125.00
Sunflowers & Monarch
Artist Vincent van Gogh was famous for his missing ear and his colourful paintings of rural life. I would never compare my work to that of van Gogh, but we both had a love of sunflowers and the rural landscape.
I tried for a van Gogh feel to the sunflowers but did the butterfly in great detail for a contrast . . . my style versus van Gogh’s.
I was lucky enough a number of years ago to see the original “Starry Night” at the ROM in Toronto. It was a Toulouse Lautrec and Vincent van Gogh joint exhibit. I went because the show was a once in a life time opportunity. I came home a fan of both artists’ genius.
I stood mesmerized by the twinkling stars. At that time artists had to grind their own pigments and blend their own paints. How did Vincent achieve those vibrant luminous colours? His madness in later years came from exposure to toxins in those homemade paints . . . something I don’t need to worry about with all the new restrictions and regulations for the production of art supplies. That doesn’t mean I’ll be exempt from madness . . . just that I won’t be able to blame it on the paint.
Hope you appreciate my sunflowers and the butterfly. I love all things bright and beautiful. What a sight to see a large field of sunflowers . . .or giant Russians leaning against the side of a weathered barn. Keep your eye out for more sunflower paintings.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 16” X 16 1/8” - each $145.00
I tried for a van Gogh feel to the sunflowers but did the butterfly in great detail for a contrast . . . my style versus van Gogh’s.
I was lucky enough a number of years ago to see the original “Starry Night” at the ROM in Toronto. It was a Toulouse Lautrec and Vincent van Gogh joint exhibit. I went because the show was a once in a life time opportunity. I came home a fan of both artists’ genius.
I stood mesmerized by the twinkling stars. At that time artists had to grind their own pigments and blend their own paints. How did Vincent achieve those vibrant luminous colours? His madness in later years came from exposure to toxins in those homemade paints . . . something I don’t need to worry about with all the new restrictions and regulations for the production of art supplies. That doesn’t mean I’ll be exempt from madness . . . just that I won’t be able to blame it on the paint.
Hope you appreciate my sunflowers and the butterfly. I love all things bright and beautiful. What a sight to see a large field of sunflowers . . .or giant Russians leaning against the side of a weathered barn. Keep your eye out for more sunflower paintings.
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 16” X 16 1/8” - each $145.00
Casey Estate
The Casey Estate is the first limited Edition print in artist, Jenny Phillips’, “Elgin County Heritage Collection” and her first major work in watercolours. In January of 1993 for health and environmental concerns, as well as a desire to meet new challenges, Jenny made the change from painting in oils to watercolours. Her attention to detail and the vibrancy of each new painting won the approval from old and new clients alike.
This gorgeous Italianate Georgian mansion is coveted by almost every Elgin woman, but not all would relish the upkeep of such a place.
Lisa, our youngest daughter, lived around the corner on John Wise Line at one point, and I know she too loves this house.
- Jenny
This gorgeous Italianate Georgian mansion is coveted by almost every Elgin woman, but not all would relish the upkeep of such a place.
Lisa, our youngest daughter, lived around the corner on John Wise Line at one point, and I know she too loves this house.
- Jenny
The McIntyre Hotel circa 1900
“The McIntyre Hotel circa 1900” is the second limited edition print in artist Jenny Phillips’ new “Elgin County Heritage Collection” and her second major work in watercolours. In January 1993 for health and environmental concerns as well as a desire to meet new challenges, Jenny made the change from painting in oils to watercolours. Her attention to detail and the vibrancy of each new painting wins approval from old and new clients alike.
This is Main Street, Dutton in the early 1900’s with its wooden boardwalk, mud streets and the Old McIntyre Hotel. The McIntyre House Hotel is one of the oldest buildings on Main Street. In 1875 A McMillan built the Dominion House. In 1881 W. Nelson managed the hotel under the name Nelson House and purchased it in 1883. J.H. McIntyre bought the hotel in 1888 and changed the name to the McIntyre House Hotel. The name remains today. There were 26 bedrooms, several sample rooms, a dining room and a livery stable out back. The stables were reached by passing through an archway at the north end of the building. Travelling salesmen set up their wares in the sample rooms at the front of the hotel. The lovely overhanging porch is gone now and the hotel barely resembles the picturesque building of a gentler time. Numerous owners have made their changes and gone on to other things but the memories remain.
Edition size 200 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 11” X 15 3/4” - each $135.00
This is Main Street, Dutton in the early 1900’s with its wooden boardwalk, mud streets and the Old McIntyre Hotel. The McIntyre House Hotel is one of the oldest buildings on Main Street. In 1875 A McMillan built the Dominion House. In 1881 W. Nelson managed the hotel under the name Nelson House and purchased it in 1883. J.H. McIntyre bought the hotel in 1888 and changed the name to the McIntyre House Hotel. The name remains today. There were 26 bedrooms, several sample rooms, a dining room and a livery stable out back. The stables were reached by passing through an archway at the north end of the building. Travelling salesmen set up their wares in the sample rooms at the front of the hotel. The lovely overhanging porch is gone now and the hotel barely resembles the picturesque building of a gentler time. Numerous owners have made their changes and gone on to other things but the memories remain.
Edition size 200 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 11” X 15 3/4” - each $135.00
The Old Canada Southern Railway Station
This is the back view of the historic Canada Southern Railway Station, looking northwest. This station and rail yard was once the hub of a multi-rail business in St. Thomas. The following text is quoted from the North American Railway Hall of Fame website . . . .
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“The former Canada Southern Railway station in St. Thomas, Ontario ... was built by American railway promoters between 1871 and 1873 to serve both as the local station and as the headquarters of the company. As such, this large and impressive Italianate-style structure served as the symbol of the railway. After 1878 this regional rail line was controlled by the New York Central Railroad and, from 1883 until 1930, under the aegis of one of its subsidiaries, the Michigan Central Railway. Subsequently, the lease was transferred back to the New York Central until 1968 at which time the line was amalgamated into the Penn Central which went bankrupt in 1976. The company was reorganized as Conrail, which owned it until 1983 when it was purchased jointly by the Canadian Pacific Railway and Canadian National Railways. The St. Thomas station functioned throughout most of this period as the company's administrative headquarters and the location of its main shops and yards..."
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Almost every family in St. Thomas and surrounding area had a relative or two who worked for the railroad. A century ago the railroad was king. Who would have, fifty years or more ago, believed that the rails would be abandoned, ripped up and sold for salvage? For further information on this historic landmark visit www.narhf.org
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 10” X 20” - each $145.00
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“The former Canada Southern Railway station in St. Thomas, Ontario ... was built by American railway promoters between 1871 and 1873 to serve both as the local station and as the headquarters of the company. As such, this large and impressive Italianate-style structure served as the symbol of the railway. After 1878 this regional rail line was controlled by the New York Central Railroad and, from 1883 until 1930, under the aegis of one of its subsidiaries, the Michigan Central Railway. Subsequently, the lease was transferred back to the New York Central until 1968 at which time the line was amalgamated into the Penn Central which went bankrupt in 1976. The company was reorganized as Conrail, which owned it until 1983 when it was purchased jointly by the Canadian Pacific Railway and Canadian National Railways. The St. Thomas station functioned throughout most of this period as the company's administrative headquarters and the location of its main shops and yards..."
--
Almost every family in St. Thomas and surrounding area had a relative or two who worked for the railroad. A century ago the railroad was king. Who would have, fifty years or more ago, believed that the rails would be abandoned, ripped up and sold for salvage? For further information on this historic landmark visit www.narhf.org
Edition size 300 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 10” X 20” - each $145.00
The Spicer Trail
I have always loved woodland flowers, especially our provincial flower, the trillium. Each spring Dave and I like to go for rides looking for patches of white in the emerging greenery in our local forests. When our children were younger and we both had better health, our family of six would go camping and hiking. We hiked the Grandfather Mountains of North Carolina, the Alleghany Mountains of Pennsylvania, the Gatineau Hills at Wakefield, just a half hour north of Ottawa and Hull, Quebec, as well as Reserve Falls in Ontario. My favourite location of all is John E. Pearce Park and the lands surrounding Backus Page House Museum in Dutton Dunwich.
I painted this to honour our friend Lorne Spicer, a veteran of WWII and a naturalist of note here in Elgin County. Lorne along with Arthur McCormick, Ted Suckley, Gord Longhurst, Neva and Ian Carmichael, Frank Latanzzio, Jamie Littlejohn, the St. Thomas Field Naturalists and others went around the county finding excellent examples of our native trees. With the assistance and skill of Catherine Spratley they produced self-guiding maps for each area of Elgin County. The Spicer Trail sign is located across from John E. Pearce Provincial Park between Backus Page and historic St. Peters Church. There are several other trails in close proximity – The Canada Trail and the newly opened wetlands Mary Storey Trail. This new trail loops around some wetland ponds and even has a viewing tower. All trails are clearly marked. Parking is at Backus Page or on the roadside.
Please note: depending on time of year and weather some portions of the area may be damp to very wet. Dress accordingly. Take nothing but pictures leave nothing but foot prints. Lorne’s son Tom and wife Janet, enjoy hiking and bird watching. I asked them to comment on what may be found along Spicer Trail.
Tom wrote:
“Here are some of the things we saw on Spicer trail on our walk in early September.
Trees: Basswood, sugar maple, black locust, Walnut, yellow birch, American beech tree, ash, black cherry, black maple and Juniper.
Plants: Perriwinkle, ferns, touch-me-nots, goldenrod, mushroom, toadstools, Virginia creeper.
Birds and animals: Chickadees, blue jays, downy, hairy and red-bellied woodpeckers, (we sometimes see pileated woodpeckers and yellow bellied sapsuckers, but not on this walk) white-tailed deer, squirrels, catbird, yellow-rump warblers, house wrens, cardinals, chipmunk, blue birds, crows, monarch butterflies.
The trails are marked with signs. There is a beautiful stream that has a small bridge to cross. There are small hills and valleys, stumps and old logs and beautiful green mosses, as well as several different types of fungi.”
Original acrylic on canvas Sold – some limited edition prints are available.
I painted this to honour our friend Lorne Spicer, a veteran of WWII and a naturalist of note here in Elgin County. Lorne along with Arthur McCormick, Ted Suckley, Gord Longhurst, Neva and Ian Carmichael, Frank Latanzzio, Jamie Littlejohn, the St. Thomas Field Naturalists and others went around the county finding excellent examples of our native trees. With the assistance and skill of Catherine Spratley they produced self-guiding maps for each area of Elgin County. The Spicer Trail sign is located across from John E. Pearce Provincial Park between Backus Page and historic St. Peters Church. There are several other trails in close proximity – The Canada Trail and the newly opened wetlands Mary Storey Trail. This new trail loops around some wetland ponds and even has a viewing tower. All trails are clearly marked. Parking is at Backus Page or on the roadside.
Please note: depending on time of year and weather some portions of the area may be damp to very wet. Dress accordingly. Take nothing but pictures leave nothing but foot prints. Lorne’s son Tom and wife Janet, enjoy hiking and bird watching. I asked them to comment on what may be found along Spicer Trail.
Tom wrote:
“Here are some of the things we saw on Spicer trail on our walk in early September.
Trees: Basswood, sugar maple, black locust, Walnut, yellow birch, American beech tree, ash, black cherry, black maple and Juniper.
Plants: Perriwinkle, ferns, touch-me-nots, goldenrod, mushroom, toadstools, Virginia creeper.
Birds and animals: Chickadees, blue jays, downy, hairy and red-bellied woodpeckers, (we sometimes see pileated woodpeckers and yellow bellied sapsuckers, but not on this walk) white-tailed deer, squirrels, catbird, yellow-rump warblers, house wrens, cardinals, chipmunk, blue birds, crows, monarch butterflies.
The trails are marked with signs. There is a beautiful stream that has a small bridge to cross. There are small hills and valleys, stumps and old logs and beautiful green mosses, as well as several different types of fungi.”
Original acrylic on canvas Sold – some limited edition prints are available.
The Pumpkin Field - Bayham
While on one of our many drives traversing our scenic county of Elgin I noticed fields of varieties of squash and pumpkins. I know this isn’t Charlie Brown’s pumpkin patch where the GREAT PUMPKIN grows, but I love it never the less. These pumpkins are destined for jack-o-lanterns or amazing pumpkin pies. Bayham is at the eastern most end of Elgin County. Every turned corner reveals lush vegetation, forests and farmers’ fields. Every season offers something new. The topography is varied as well. I highly recommend a drive there. Check out the old lighthouse, the Marine Museum, the various shops & eateries, the real decommissioned submarine and the local eateries in Port Burwell. Their beach is enticing and there is boating, fishing as well as a provincial park. Not far from Pt. Burwell is Vienna, home of the Edison family. The whole area is steeped in history. I highly recommend a drive there. You won’t be disappointed.
Edition size 200 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 15 ½” X 20”- each $135.00
Edition size 200 s/n limited edition prints – image size: 15 ½” X 20”- each $135.00