New and 'unique' exhibition explores Aurora's local history

Inspirations From a Space of Healing exhibition runs from Dec. 10 to Jan. 28, featuring works by artists of the Society of York Region Artists

Newmarkettoday.ca
Dec. 7, 2022

Curated by the Aurora Historical Society and Aurora Cultural Centre, Inspirations From a Space of Healing is a new multisite exhibition located at Hillary House National Historic Site and the Aurora Cultural Centre’s temporary home on the second floor of the Aurora town hall. Running from Dec. 10, 2022, to Jan. 28, 2023, with the Virtual Gallery available until Feb. 10, it will feature work by artists of the Society of York Region Artists whose inspiration was sparked by artifacts within Hillary House National Historic Site.

“We are excited to host such a unique exhibition drawing from Aurora’s local history,” says Suzanne Haines, executive director. “Not only does this draw from the diverse artistic landscape of York Region and its surrounding area, but also from glimpses into the cultural landscape of Aurora’s past–both human and architectural.”

Built in 1862, Hillary House is recognized by the National Historic Sites and Monuments Board as one of the best and most complete examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Ontario. It was used as a doctor’s practice and family residence for over 100 years and contains a significant collection of medical instruments, books, papers, historical artifacts and household furnishings dating from the early nineteenth to the late twentieth century.

The featured artists from the Society of York Region Artists will be Bill Lunshof, Carol Walthers, Catherine Fairs, Christine Valentini, George Keltika, Hans Backer, Karin Adams, Kevin McBean, Linda Welch, Lucy Quin, Melinda Schnalzer, Sharon Nielsen, and Vikki Mikkola. The Society of York Region Artists (SOYRA) is a non-profit organization established in 1987 that provides a forum for visual artists in York Region to share knowledge, gain expertise, and promote arts and culture within the community. Exhibits are regularly displayed in local venues and members participate in juried exhibitions and a wide variety of creative events, including workshops and plein air opportunities throughout the year.

We invite the public to join us for the opening reception of Inspirations From a Space of Healing on Saturday, Dec. 10, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Hillary House National Historic Site.

For complete information about the exhibition, please visit this website.

The gallery at Aurora Town Hall (Upper Parking Lot Entrance) will be open Saturday, Dec. 10, with extended hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. We encourage guests to hop between the two venues to enjoy the art in both spaces! Click here for location information of our temporary gallery at the town hall.