HURRICANE HAZEL 1954
by Joyce Ernyes
Inspired by "Stranded" by Marion Blum
As daybreak dawned that cold October morning, Anika and her mother cautiously ventured out from their log cabin on Lake Negwan. A vicious wind, propelling torrential rain, had battered the area throughout the night. Now, only an eerie calm remained.
Lake Negwan was located in a remote area of Quebec, accessible only by a series of waterways. Anika's family occupied the land during the summer months, as did many generations of their indigenous ancestors. It was paramount, however, that no one remained beyond mid-October as ice could form rapidly, causing hazardous conditions for travelers.
Anika's father and older brother had set out the previous week, in order to hunt as they made their way south. Anika and her mother were to leave shortly thereafter, navigating a more direct route.
As the women assessed the ravages of the storm, a feeling of uneasiness enveloped Anika's mother. Being of Algonquin heritage she believed that her spirit guide was warning her of impending danger.
Approaching the water's edge, they were gripped by fear upon discovering that their canoe—and only means of transportation—had disappeared. Realizing the magnitude of their predicament, should the canoe not be found; they frantically searched the shoreline, but to no avail.
Then, as the mist over the water dissipated, their precious red canoe became visible, nestled among the tall reeds—on the opposite side of the lake.
With no means of communication and no means of retrieving the canoe, they knew that they were STRANDED.
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Artist's Statement:
Marion has enjoyed taking classes, learning different art skills, from many accomplished artists, who have shared their artistic styles and methods. She works with a variety of mediums but mainly paints in acrylic. Working with oils, encaustic, and collage mixed media allows for so much creativity as Marion likes incorporating all types of interesting objects and ideas into her creations.
She finds motivation from the beautiful rural surroundings, urban life and loves to travel and discover inspiration for her art during those journeys. Art is therapeutic and gives her a sense of relaxation. Her creativity provides an outlet from a hectic lifestyle which allows her to focus on her art.
During Marion's professional career she had the privilege to create Multi-Sensory Environments for
individuals to help them find their inner creativity and provide an escape from the pressures of daily life.
Bio:
Marion has had the privilege of displaying her art in both group and solo exhibitions. She's won a number of awards for her art through the South Simcoe Arts Council. Her involvement in creating a major art project in Markham led to the piece being purchased and put on permanent display at their City Hall.
Most recently she has been awarded a position to exhibit her art at the McMichael Gallery in Kleinburg. Marion has sold many pieces of her art over the years, locally and abroad.
You can view Marion's work on her Instagram @sensory.art