The Society of York Region Artists (SOYRA) to celebrate 25th anniversary. It seems like the weather has been a bit unpredictable! One moment it’s snowing and freezing, and the next, it’s raining. It’s January, and it is raining now. There is still some snow on the ground, and just last weekend, it was -14°C. It’s a bit challenging to wander in the cold around Aurora with my cameras and my 3.5-year-old.

I was afraid that my winter might be spent with my face pressed against the window. However, the cold winter days aren’t so bad anymore, because I’ve realized that on rainy, snowy, or freezing days, I can still experience more of Aurora from the comfort of being indoors.

So if you’re wondering what’s up, it’s simple—I’m embracing the changing seasons and finding ways to enjoy Aurora, no matter the weather.
I received an invitation to cover the SOYRA (The Society of York Region Artists) show at the Aurora Cultural Centre. No doubt, I’m nervous, but I’ll have Shawna Patenaude, a SOYRA member and artist, by my side to guide me. This will be my first show, aside from special family events I’ve photographed in the past. I’m going to practice journalistic photography—this time for real. We’ll see how it turns out!
The opening reception of the SOYRA 25th anniversary exhibition will take place on Saturday, January 21, 2012, at the Aurora Cultural Centre from 1–4 pm. The exhibition will run until February 5, 2012. The artwork of 62 SOYRA members, both past and present, will be displayed on all levels of the Aurora Cultural Centre building.
SOYRA was founded in September 1987 “to provide a forum for artists of all levels to exchange ideas, opinions and assist each other in the advancement of their artistic goals. This is achieved through art shows, field trips, study groups and instruction by recognized professional artists,” SOYRA.
I encourage you to visit and explore the world of art at the Aurora Cultural Centre and meet the talented artists. I’ve always had a love for art, but it took me some time to realize just how much. I’m very thankful for digital camera technology, because, as simple as a paintbrush, pencil, or crayon may be, I know I would never be able to work with them as skillfully.

In Aurora, my eyes were opened when I saw Shawna Patenaude’s solo exhibition, emerge into light, at the Skylight Gallery (Town Hall) back in October 2011. I’ve also come to realize that knowing an artist creates a unique connection between you, the art, and the artist. I encourage you to experience it for yourself – the exhibit starts on January 21, 2012, at the Aurora Cultural Centre.
COMMENTS
Shawna Patenaude said: January 17, 2012 at 01:09
“Thank you so much for the wonderful write-up Anna! I look forward to seeing you on Saturday.”
Marvin said: January 30, 2012 at 23:54
“Woohoo, good job with all your professional pictures! Your work gets you noticed, doesn’t it!”