Music, art and wine jazz up fundraising for County’s south shore

Story and photos by Sharon Harrison
Whether an art lover, a wine connoisseur or someone who just appreciates a touch of jazz, Saturday afternoon brought together all three elements for the enjoyment of those wanting to take in some County culture, all while supporting a South Shore Joint Initiative (SSJI) fundraiser.

Held at the Mount Tabor shed in Milford, attendees were wined with County wines and dined with savory Jamaican patties, all while being entertained by the Paco Luviano Quartet which provided a two hour, free-of-charge jazz concert.

The little shed at the Milford fairgrounds, so many are familiar with come fair time, was packed to the rafters on the hot afternoon as the venue turned into a concert hall-cum-art gallery-cum-tasting room.

SSJI president Cheryl Anderson was thrilled with the turnout.

“Over 100 people registered and more than that came to the event which was an opportunity to hear world-class musicians for free because the Paco Luviano band was sponsored by Exultet Estates,” she said. “And while it was hot and humid, the delicious wines helped.”

While folks were content being fed, watered and entertained, the focus next was on the serious (but fun) business of fundraising, where a silent auction featured a curation of one-of-a-kind whimsical bird feeders and nesting boxes on which attendees were encouraged to bid for their favourites.

The solid pine selection were hand-crafted by talented woodworker and long-time SSJI volunteer Dick Bird using his carpentry skills over the winter. Then, 13 local artists transformed them with their individual artistic expression to create one-of-kind practical and functional, yet fun art pieces for a garden or outdoor space.

“We had 25 unique and unusual bird feeders and bird nesting boxes all made and donated by Dick Bird for offer by silent auction,” shared Anderson. “They were joined by five pieces of art from local artists, and gift certificates from Peg’s Patties, Exultet Estates and the SSJI.

While each bespoke feeder and box is meant for outdoor use in the garden and will stand-up to the elements, they could also be brought indoors to enjoy as a decorative object.

Each came with a different theme, one or two a little unexpectedly out of the (bird) box in their concept, one might even say a little fishy in one case (The Fish by Portia ‘Po’ Chapman), each exquisitely and artfully painted in their own right. Some were funky in their design, the diversity often whimsical and humorous, and whether it was traditionally plain or decoratively embellished, all were pleasing to both human and bird alike.

Whether it was butterfly dreams (by Jasmine Chapman) or flower power (by Dawn Ayer), themes included birds and bird migration, butterflies and nature elements (Nature finds a way by M.T. Rivers). There were also beach vibes (by Kyleen Badgley), a bakery (open for tweet treats), and a café just for the birds featuring Café d’Oiseaux by Cheryl Chapman. Other featured artists included Breanne Rose, Vicky Verner, Julia Cossarin, Barbara Tomlin, Cedric St Amour, Brenda van Ginkel and Mira Barnes.

“We’re thrilled that 13 talented artists answered our call to create this year’s bird feeders,” noted Anderson. “Challenging local artists to decorate a bird feeder gives them the opportunity to display their originality and creativity. SSJI is grateful for their willingness to work with us to raise funds supporting our work on the South Shore.”

As well as thanking the maker and the artists and the donors who contributed auction items, emcee for the afternoon Braydon Scully also thanked Aidan Haley and Dani Taylor, along with the many volunteers who helped out for the event, and the South Marysburgh Recreation Committee for supplying the venue.

Not only was SSJI supported in its fundraising efforts by the event, but local artists were also as each artist received $20 for their contribution for each bird feeder and nesting box sold with the rest going towards the fundraiser, so attendees were encouraged to bid high and often.

A new element to this year’s fundraiser was a selection of gift certificates for local experiences such as guided walks, along with SSJI merchandise, including tote bags, tee shirts, tea towels, bucket hats and cards, also a gift certificate for a wine tasting. As part of the fundraising initiative, a 50/50 draw was also held where the winner received a gift certificate from Exultet Estates.

After a short intermission, folks settled into the second half of the concert enjoying the wonderful sounds of the Paco Luviano Quartet, where toes were a-tapping, heads a-nodding, and few couples found a little space to dance to the enchanting and lively vibes of Mexico, experiencing the unique global music-inspired sounds delighting the appreciative audience.

Paco Luviano is the son of celebrated Mexican musician Macario Luviano. A global performer, Paco has performed or recorded with Frankie Vallie, Devine Brown, Liona Boyd, Randy Brecker and many more international artists. The group also participated in this year’s Prince Edward County Jazz Festival line-up.

“The music was fantastic,” said Anderson, “and we are so lucky to have such talented musicians come to the County for the Jazz Festival.”

The Jazz, Wine and Art fundraiser was the second for the SSJI, a not-for-profit registered charity, which also appreciated great success at its first such event with a sold-out art auction. The SSJI mission is to protect and preserve the rare and unique south shore of Prince Edward County.

Its next fundraising event will be SSJI’s first-ever square foot art show and sale. (Note: polka event has been cancelled)

To learn more about the South Shore Joint Initiative visit ssji.ca