BARBARA SIMMONS

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Tiny Township

Fours years ago I made the decision to sell my hobby farm in Uxbridge and move to Tiny Township. Tiny was not a random choice- my partner had bought a cottage there the fall before, and I fell in love with the beach. When he suggested I follow, I said I would if there was an art community. Big laughs- you can’t spit in Tiny without hitting at least 5 painters!  I found a small house near the cottage and moved in.

As a child my family camped each summer at Killbear Provincial Park. Now I know Killbear as a Mecca for those who paint Georgian Bay’s iconic rocks, water and trees. Georgian Bay was a part of my life.

My partner likes to say that there are clear, big water lakes, and smaller, dark water lakes. Georgian Bay and the other Great Lakes fall into the big water category: endless vistas and big skies. Tiny Township has the added thrill of amazing sunsets over the water, seen from sandy beaches. It also has large tracts of forest and rolling farm fields. Beyond Midland are the 30,000 Islands, a rocky archipelago of iconic Northern Ontario beauty.

There is nothing more calming than stepping into the water of Georgian Bay and letting the waves wash away all of your cares. To me it is like the Bay has a healing vibe, and just going down to the beach makes me feel better.

The dark water lakes of Muskoka have incredible reflections in their calm water. The nearer opposite shores make for interesting vistas that wind around little islands and rocks, and their quiet water allows seating areas on the dock and easy boat rides.

All of these things inspire me. Everywhere I go I see paintings. Everywhere is the cottage country we know and love, where childhood summers are spent on the beach and in the water. From Sparkle Hour to stunning sunsets, Georgian Bay and Muskoka are unforgettable.

And THAT’s why I paint.

What’s So Special About Lafontaine Beach?

Well… I live here. Every day I walk the roads, trails and beaches with my dog. Every day I take lots of photos because I just can’t stop seeing inspiration everywhere. Every season has its beauty but summer is my favourite.