NEWLY OPENED - The River Gallery...
NEWLY OPENED - The River Gallery on Water Street
In quaint downtown Pictou, you will find a very welcoming shop, its entrance adorned with flowers, a wooden bench and beautiful art displayed in the large front windows. This is the home of the newly opened River Gallery on Water Street.
As you enter this lovely Gallery, your senses are delighted. The sound of relaxing jazz fills the air. The odour of sweet grass, desert white sage, handmade soaps, and body mists combine to create an intoxicating scent that induces a sense of calm. Your eyes quickly dance over vividly painted walls in hues of red, blue, and yellow, contrasted with pure white walls which proudly display wild, mad, bold art including uniquely handcrafted traditional talking sticks, drums, and paintings all created by the Gallery owner, Vivianne.
I spent at least a half-hour in the most engaging and free-flowing conversation with Vivianne, “Art is a way for me to explore both my inner world, and how I process my place in the outer world. I’ve always been particularly fascinated by the power of improvisation, whether that be with a piano, a voice, a camera, or a canvas,” she continued, “Deeply listening to what is being sung, or written, or painted…the language beyond all of the chatter and noise of our oh so busy world. This is where I find my joy, my peace.” I nodded in agreement, “You are so right. We do live in a busy world. I feel blessed to live so close to the ocean which also helps calm the noise.”
Vivianne grinned, “One day, as I was reflecting on life, I asked myself the deepest of questions: If I had a choice, how would I like to die? Aside from being in the sun...by the ocean of course! So why not live like I would like to die?” She paused, “I thought a lot about 'the power of blue’, 'love of blue,' and how often 'blue' is so mesmerizing like water, like the ocean that lay before us,” I stood there captivated as she continued, “Like prayer, meditation. Reflection on the 'blue-ness' of life. The blue of water, sky, and heart,” she smiled softly, “I decided to move from Quebec to Pictou by the sea. One of the best decisions I’ve probably ever made! It's like a dream come true!" I smiled, “Welcome to Pictou! And thank you so much for chatting with me and sharing part of your story. This is a lovely space you have created. Very beautiful, calming, and inviting. I will be back.”
I left the River Gallery on Water Street not only making a new friend, but with a new appreciation for taking time to enjoy the little moments scattered throughout the day that make each one special.
I believe this quote by Mehmet Murat Ildan sums it up perfectly, “A very special day is the day when you realize that every day is very special." ❤
The River Gallery on Water Street ~ 49 Water St., Pictou NS!