Artist Retreats

I have been researching artist retreats in Ontario.

The first one I found is called Bridgewater Retreat  and it is located in Tweed Ontario.

Hidden among the trees, alongside the beautiful Skootamata River are over 6 acres of nature at it's best. 1850's Riverfront Log Home, 1820's Log Lodge, 2 studios, 16 cedar cabins and over 1,000 feet of River front provide the perfect setting for a art-filled relaxing getaway.

It was formerly known as Schneider School of Fine Arts (established in 1963). Canadian artists, many hailing from Toronto, Montreal, and other urban centres, spent their art holidays here.

While researching the origins of this wonderful retreat I learned a great deal about Mary Schneider.

Highly involved in the Ontario arts scene, Mary Schneider also served as director of the Madoc Art Centre, taught at the Artists' Workshop, was a member of the Ontario Society of Artists and the Colour and Form Society, and founded the Mary Schneider Art Club. For the Canadian centennial celebration, Schneider was commissioned to create a series of prints of famous Canadian scenes. In recognition of her accomplishments, the artist was awarded the Polish Golden Cross of Merit in 1969. Students of the Ontario College of Art and Design continue to benefit from the scholarships she established upon her death, including the Mary Schneider Juried Art and Design Award, and the Roman and Mary Schneider Foundation Scholarship.

Bridgewater Retreat  is definitely on my list of places to visit this summer!