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Sunday, July 08, 2012

My Camino ... Mon chemin de Compostelle Paris/Tours

Traduction en français plus bas



In their kind attempt to comfort me during emotionally difficult years, three unrelated friends mentioned their life-changing experiences while walking along the Camino route, a trail pilgrims have taken since the Midddle Ages to reach Santiago de Compostela where they believed the remains of the apostle St. James were buried.

Even though I'm a skeptical, non-practicing catholic, I could not ignore the coincidences that nudged me towards this soul-searching journey. I chose to walk the Voie de Tours, the Paris/Tours route as it passed through Gradignan, a suburb of Bordeaux, home to my friends Catherine and Jean-Paul whom I hadn't seen for 12 years. I planned to walk from Gradignan to St. Jean Pied de Port in 11 days, and then finish the Spanish section next year.

My friends, enthused about the trip, not only found a terrific guide titled Le Chemin de Paris et de Tours, but also offered to accompany me to le Barp, the first stop from Gradignan.

Still nursing the end of a bad flu caught a week before leaving Toronto, and a bit dazed from jet lag, but thrilled to reconnect with my dear friends, I carried a backpack 4 lbs heavier than the recommended 10% of my weight (after I added guidebook, lunch,and water). But I was determined to tough it out.

We started at the Prieuré de Cayac where pilgrims have stopped since the Middle Ages. Their fervent spirits seemed to be solidly entrenched within the crumbling walls, porticos, and turrets of these old buildings, and I felt as if I was going back in time, with them by my side.























With Catherine in front of the Prieuré de Cayac

We trekked through the forest, and long stretches of vineyards, past a lone farm with horses roaming freely, a small village with a stone oven, a château. And bright red poppies blooming from gravelled lanes, as if their eagerness to grow turned an arid land fertile. Catherine and I reminisced about our teenage years and sang old French ballads while Jean-Paul walked ahead, making sure we followed the guide and sign posts.























Jean-Paul trying to meditate while we're singing and chatting away.

Along the 26 kms, we met only one pilgrim who was returning from Santiago. Why didn't more people walk this route? It was so conducive to meditation.

About eight hours later, with a few breaks for lunch and snacks, we reached the gîte Jean-Paul had booked in Le Barp. My legs were strained, as if one more step would send me sprawling on the ground. What a relief to find Elisa's charming shelter with its cascading roses. With the give-away price for room and board, I could not fuss about the unkempt room. Elisa, our petite hostess made everything bearable with her big heart. She explained that welcoming pilgrims was her way of giving back after others opened their doors generously to her during long years of travels around the world.














Elisa's gîte. 20 euros a night, dinner and breakfast included.
Tel:06 83 82 15 43

The next morning, I sadly waved goodbye to Catherine and Jean-Paul who were walking back to Gradignan. They reassured me that I'd be safe, but I was somewhat nervous about walking on my own. What on earth was I thinking? Where were other pilgrims? In a panic, I recalled how deserted the road was the day before. If something happened to me, it would take a while to get help. Of course, I had my cell phone, and my walking poles with which I could slap away dogs, wild beasts or hooligans lurking from the forest, and with my black belt, and that crazy fierceness about me, I could repel a horde of thugs ...

Just keep walking, I told myself. Oddly, it was hardest when I went through the village, past houses, cars, civilization. When I stepped into the woods, it was so peaceful that a sense of well-being took over, as if I was being guided not only by all my friends who wished me well, but pilgrims who took this route over centuries. And the trees themselves, tall, solid, seemed to offer their protection.

According to my guide, the Landes, the area through which I was walking, were sandy wastelands before Napoleon ordered villagers to forest the area, which explains the linear patterns of the trees.

I listened to the crunch of my footsteps, as if I was out of my own body, looking from above at this tiny dot in the immense forest. Looking at myself in a larger world made it was easier to shed the extraneous, and live simply, purely in the moment.


I focused on the long stretch of lane ahead of me, confident, with a new sense of purpose, knowing I was walking in the right direction, which was for now, Belin-Beliet. When I arrived around 1 pm, everything was closed. I was starved, thirsty, with a sore throat, and a backpack that felt heavier with each step I took towards the Super U grocery store to buy food. After I devoured a sandwich and downed a litre of water, I tried to find my way to Le Muret, but it was confusing. The sign post pointed towards a different direction than the book. It was 2:30 pm. The sky was darkening and it was already spitting. My backpack, as if filled with lead, was now crushing my back. Walking four more hours was impossible. I stopped for the night at a Chambre d'hôte, our equivalent of a B & B. This beautiful room became my oasis.

Chambre d'hôte chez les Cléments. 70 euros a night breakfast included. Tel:05 56 88 13 17

Philippe and Françoise were wonderful hosts who took me under their wings when, the next morning, they saw me inching my way down the stairs, my back in spasms. Philippe drove me to a doctor who recommended that I stop the walk. And also to an osteopath who cracked my back into place, and as part of his holistic approach to healing, encouraged me to release the emotional baggage I was carrying. I found myself confiding in this kind healer who believed we did not meet by chance, that he was meant to help me. Another guardian angel sent my way ...
Belin-Beliet

And so I continued the journey after three days at the Cléments, but by car as my back, even though it was better, was not fully recovered. My host kindly gave me a ride to Le Muret. I stayed at Hotel Le Grand Gousier, the only accommodation in this small ghost town without even a convenience store. Its main interest was the St. Roch stone chapel, a pilgrim stop since the 12th century, with the characteristic regional architecture of that time.
St Roch chapel at Le Muret

From Le Muret, I hoped to walk, but my back was still not ready and I took a cab to Hôtel de l'Aubergade in Labouheyre. The quaint town centres around a large shaded park filled with trees that have been trained with wires to form a thick canopy of leaves. I went around the park and found the church St. Jacques de Labouheyre. The door was open, as if inviting me to go in. Inside, I stared breathless at the tall vaulted gothic ceiling. I was the only person there, and yet candles were burning in a corner of the cool, silent space, pulling me towards their flames. It was surreal, as if I was entering a mystical world that strangely felt like home.


Labouheyre

I was strolling back in the park when I saw some fellow walkers arriving. I rushed to say hello, starved by now for company. The group's friendliness was spontaneous. Michel and Michelle were staying at the pilgrim shelter, L'Abri du Pèlerin, which they recommended (20 euros per night, breakfast included. Tel: 05 58 07 04 59). Claudine invited me for a drink at her friend François's mobile home, which he drove each morning to the next stop, and then bicycled back to accompany the group on their walk. These fortunate encounters were uncanny, as if I was truly being looked after by a force beyond me. My back was better but still not fully recovered, and François drove me the following day to Onesse before he went back to meet the group. It was 7:30 am and Auberge Caule was closed. I sat on its patio, enjoying the cool breeze on my face, the climbing roses, a bright sun that announced a hot day, and wrote. Soon, a feisty woman named Rosy came out unfazed, as if used to strange people waiting that early on her patio. She welcomed me to her gîte, a family-run business that has accommodated pilgrims for many generations.























Rosy's gîte in Onesse. 20 euros, breakfast included. Tel: 05 58 07 30 01

My four new friends were staying in a spacious campground filled with mobile homes that were rented for the night. In most villages, there are choices for different budgets, the pilgrim shelters and campgrounds being usually the most reasonable options, and the choice of most pilgrims who want to meet others there. In some places like Taller, the next stop on our route, the village did not have any hotels or B & B, only one pilgrim shelter, a room with four bunk beds, bathroom and kitchenette. It was clean, and only 7 euros per night. I was surprised by the low cost of shelters for pilgrims and the eagerness of villagers to facilitate our journey.


In Taller, the lavoir where villagers used to wash their clothes.

I chose Dax as my last stop. It's a larger town from where I could take the train back to Bordeaux and Paris. Dax's rich history is visible in its impressive cathedral, its four-metres wide Roman ramparts, its hot water fountains and mud baths that to this day are famous for their healing properties. And of course, I could not resist a mud treatment to pamper my back, which felt much better now.























Fontaine d'Eau Chaude in Dax

At Dax, I parted with my new friends who were continuing to St. Jean Pied de Port and then back to the Vendée region where they are from. Our short time together had been heart-warming and inspiring. I would miss Michelle's wisdom and fortitude, Michel's sense of humour, Claudine's joie-de-vivre, and François's informative discourse on the Landes region. We promised to keep in touch.







Michelle, Michel, Claudine, François and Caroline who met us in Taller

Many people along the route have touched me in ways I may not fully understand yet. It's true that each of us had our own Camino route, with its own challenges, sometimes different from what we expected. Walking, even for only two days, was uplifting. Hurting my back, even though a tough lesson in humility, brought many incredible healing moments, and I am thankful for rediscovering the inherent goodness in people, for regaining faith in others and in myself. It was not only an enlightening journey but great visits through the small towns and villages of the Aquitaine region. I will definitely go back to finish the route by foot but better prepared this time.










TRADUCTION POUR MES AMIS FRANÇAIS


En me consolant pendant des années difficiles, trois amis qui ne se connaissent pas ont mentionné le bonheur de leurs états d'âme après avoir marché sur le Chemin de Compostelle, un sentier que les pèlerins prenaient depuis le moyen âge pour aller à Santiago de Compostelle où ils croyaient que les restes de l'apôtre Saint-James ont été enterrés.

Même si je suis sceptique et catholique non-pratiquante, je ne pouvais pas ignorer les coïncidences qui m'ont poussé vers ce voyage d'introspection. J'ai choisi de marcher sur la Voie de Tours car elle passe par Gradignan, une banlieue de Bordeaux, où vivent mes amis Catherine et Jean-Paul que je n'avais pas vu depuis 12 ans. J'ai prévu de marcher de Gradignan à Saint Jean Pied de Port en 11 jours, puis de terminer la section espagnole l'année prochaine.

Mes amis, enthousiasmés par le voyage, non seulement ont trouvé un guide formidable intitulé Le Chemin de Paris et de Tours, mais ont également offert de m'accompagner à Le Barp, le premier arrêt.

Soignant la fin d'une mauvaise grippe prise une semaine avant de quitter Toronto, et un peu étourdie par le décalage horaire, mais très heureuse de renouer avec mes chers amis, je portais un sac à dos 2 kg de plus que le 10% de mon poids qu'on m'avait recommandé (après avoir ajouté guide, déjeuner, et bouteille d'eau). Mais j'étais déterminé à tenir le coup.

Nous avons commencé au Prieuré de Cayac où les pèlerins se sont arrêtés depuis le Moyen Age. Leurs esprits fervents semblaient solidement ancrés dans les murs croulants, les portiques, et les tourelles de ces anciens bâtiments, et je sentais comme si ils étaient à mes côtés.

Nous avons parcouru à travers la forêt, de longues étendues de vignes, une ferme isolée avec des chevaux en liberté, un petit village avec un four en pierre, un château. Et des coquelicots rouges qui fleurissaient du gravier, comme si leur empressement à pousser avait fertilisé une terre aride. Catherine et moi, on a parlé de nos années d'adolescence et chanté des anciennes ballades françaises, tandis que Jean-Paul marchait en avant, s'assurant qu'on suive le guide et les balises.

Le long des 26 kms, nous avons rencontré un seul pèlerin qui revenait de Saint-Jacques. Pourquoi pas plus de gens sur cette voie? Elle est si propice à la méditation.

Huit heures plus tard, avec quelques pauses pour le déjeuner et des collations, nous avons atteint le gîte que Jean-Paul avait réservé à Le Barp. Mes jambes étaient tendues, comme si un pas de plus m'enverrait à plat sur le sol. Quel soulagement de trouver l'abri charmant d'Elisa avec ses roses qui descendaient en cascades. Avec un prix cadeau pour chambre et pension, je ne pouvais me plaindre de la chambre négligée. Elisa, notre hôtesse toute menue mais avec un grand coeur, m'a fait oublier ces inconforts. Elle a expliqué qu'en accueillant les pèlerins, c'était sa façon de retourner les faveurs que d'autres lui ont fait en ouvrant généreusement leurs portes pendant de longues années de voyages autour du monde.

Le lendemain matin, j'étais triste de dire au revoir à Catherine et Jean-Paul qui rentraient à Gradignan. Ils m'ont rassuré que je serais en sécurité, mais j'étais un peu angoissée à l'idée de marcher seule. Qu'est-ce qui m'était venu à la tête? Où étaient les autres pèlerins? Je me suis rappelé en paniquant de la route déserte de la veille. S'il m'arrivait un accident, il faudrait un certain temps pour obtenir de l'aide. Bien sûr, j'avais mon portable, et mes bâtons de marche avec lesquels je pourrais frapper des chiens, des bêtes sauvages ou des voyous qui se cachaient dans la forêt, et avec ma ceinture noire, et cette férocité folle en moi, je pouvais bien repousser une horde de brigands ...

Continue à marcher, je me suis dit. Curieusement, c'était plus difficile de passer par le village, les maisons, les voitures, la civilisation. Quand je suis entrée dans les bois, c'était si paisible que j'ai senti un bien-être doux m'envahir, comme si j'étais guidée non seulement par tous mes amis qui me voulaient du bien, mais les pèlerins qui ont pris cette voie au cours des siècles. Et les arbres eux-mêmes, grands, solides, semblaient offrir leur protection.

Selon mon guide, les Landes, la région à travers laquelle je marchais, étaient des déserts de sable avant que Napoléon ait ordonné aux villageois de planter des arbres pour créer une fôret, ce qui explique pourquoi les arbres semblaient être alignés.

J'ai écouté le crissement de mes pas comme si j'étais hors de mon propre corps, et je pouvais me voir d'en haut. Un point minuscule dans l'immense forêt. En me voyant dans un monde si vaste, c'était plus facile de laisser aller les choses qui ne sont pas importantes, de vivre simplement, purement dans le moment.

Je me suis concentré sur le long chemin devant moi, confiante, avec un nouveau but, sachant que j'allais dans la bonne direction, ce qui était pour l'instant, Belin-Beliet. Quand je suis arrivée vers 13 heures, tout était fermé. J'étais affamée, assoiffée, et j'avais un mal de gorge, et un sac à dos qui devenait plus lourd à chaque pas que je faisais vers le supermarché Super U pour acheter de quoi manger. Après avoir dévoré un sandwich et bu un litre d'eau, j'ai essayé de trouver le chemin vers Le Muret, mais j'étais confuse. La balise pointait vers une direction différente de celle du livre. Il était 14h30. Le ciel s'obscurcissait et crachait déjà quelques gouttes. Mon sac à dos, comme si rempli de plomb, écrasait maintenant mon dos. Marcher pour quatre heures de plus était impossible. Je me suis arrêtée pour la nuit dans un chambre d'hôte.

Philippe et Françoise étaient des hôtes sympas et m'ont pris sous leurs ailes quand, le lendemain matin, ils m'ont vu descendre péniblement l'escalier, mon dos en spasmes. Philippe m'a conduit chez un médecin qui a recommandé que j'arrête de marcher. Et aussi chez un ostéopathe qui a fait craquer mon dos en place, et avec sa croyance en la guérison du corps et de l'esprit, il m'a encouragé à libérer les bagages émotionnels que je portais. Je me suis confiée à ce gentil guérisseur qui croyait aussi que nous ne nous sommes pas rencontré par hasard, qu'il était censé m'aider. Un autre ange gardien envoyé sur mon chemin ...

J'ai continué après trois jours chez des Cléments, mais en voiture car mon dos, même un peu mieux, n'était pas en état pour marcher. Mon hôte m'a gentiment conduit jusqu'à Le Muret. Je suis restée à l'Hôtel Le Grand Gousier, le seul hébergement dans ce village fantôme, qui n'avait même pas un dépanneur. L'intérêt principale de ce village était la chapelle en pierre de Saint-Roch, un arrêt de pèlerin depuis le 12ème siècle, qui a une architecture caractéristique de cette région à l'époque.

De Le Muret, j'espérais marcher, mais mon dos n'était pas prêt et j'ai pris un taxi pour Hôtel de l'Aubergade à Labouheyre. La petite ville était centrée autour d'un grand parc ombragé avec des arbres dont les branches ont été entraînées avec des fils de fer pour former une voûte de feuilles. En me promenant autour du parc, j'ai trouvé l'église Saint-Jacques de Labouheyre. La porte était ouverte, comme m'invitant à y entrer. A l'intérieur, ça m'a coupé le souffle de voir le haut plafond gothique avec ses voutes. J'étais la seule personne dans cet espace frais et silencieux, et pourtant des bougies brûlaient dans un coin, m'attirant vers leurs flammes. Ce fut surréaliste, comme si j'entrais dans un monde mystique qui étrangement me donnait l'impression que j'étais chez moi.

Je retournais vers le parc quand j'ai vu des marcheurs qui arrivaient. Je me suis précipité pour leur dire bonjour, affamée maintenant d'avoir de la compagnie. La convivialité du groupe a été spontanée. Michel et Michelle allaient à L'Abri du Pèlerin, qu'ils ont recommandé (20 euros la nuit, petit déjeuner inclus. Tél: 05 58 07 04 59). Claudine m'a invitée à boire un sirop de menthe au camping car de son ami François. Il le conduisait chaque matin à l'étape suivante, puis revenait à bicyclette pour refaire le chemin avec le groupe. Ces heureuses rencontres étaient étonnants, comme si une force qui me dépassait s'occupait de moi. Mon dos allait mieux mais pas encore complètement guéri, et François m'a conduit le lendemain à Onesse avant de retourner à la rencontre du groupe. Il était 7h30 et Auberge Caule était fermée. Je me suis assise sur sa terrasse, profitant de la brise fraîche sur mon visage, les rosiers grimpants, un soleil radieux qui annonçait une chaude journée, et j'ai écrit. Bientôt, une femme exubérante nommée Rosy est sortie. Comme si habituée à voir des gens étranges sur sa terrasse, elle m'a accueillie dans son gîte, une entreprise familiale qui a accueilli des pèlerins depuis de nombreuses générations.

Mes quatre nouveaux amis étaient hébergés dans un camping spacieux rempli de camping cars qu'on pouvait louer pour la nuit. Dans la plupart des villages, il ya des choix pour différents budgets. Les abris de pèlerins et les terrains de camping étaient généralement les moins chers et sont préférés par les pèlerins car on y rencontre d'autres marcheurs. Dans certains endroits comme Taller, la prochaine étape de notre chemin, le village n'avait pas d'hôtels ou chambres d'hôte, mais un seul abri pour les pèlerins, une chambre avec quatre lits superposés, salle de bains et petite cuisine. C'était propre, et à seulement 7 euros la nuit. J'étais surprise par le coût très bas des maisons d'hébergement pour les pèlerins et l'empressement des villageois pour faciliter nos visites.

J'ai choisi Dax pour mon dernier arrêt. C'est une grande ville d'où je pouvais prendre le train pour retourner à Bordeaux et ensuite Paris. L'histoire de Dax est visible dans son impressionnante cathédrale, ses remparts romains de quatre mètres de large, ses fontaines d'eau chaude et ses bains de boue qui à ce jour sont célèbres pour leurs propriétés curatives. Et bien sûr, je ne pouvais pas résister à un traitement de boue pour mon dos, qui était beaucoup mieux maintenant.

A Dax, j'ai quitté mes nouveaux amis qui poursuivaient leur chemin jusqu'à Saint-Jean Pied de Port, puis retournaient dans la Vendée d'où ils venaient. Notre court séjour ensemble a été réconfortante et une inspiration pour moi. Je manquerais la sagesse et le courage de Michelle, le sens d'humour de Michel, la joie de vivre de Claudine, et le discours informatif de François sur les Landes. Nous avons promis de rester en contact.

Sur ce parcours, beaucoup de gens m'ont touché d'une manière que je ne puisse comprendre pleinement. Il est vrai que chacun de nous a son propre chemin de Compostelle à faire, avec des défis parfois différentes de ce que l'on attend. Marcher, même pour seulement deux jours, était une expérience édifiante pour moi. Mes problèmes de dos, même si c'était une dure leçon d'humilité, ont apporté beaucoup de moments très positifs qui m'ont fait redécouvrir la bonté inhérente des gens, et retrouver la foi en d'autres et en moi-même. Ce n'était pas seulement un voyage instructif, mais aussi de belles visites dans les villages et petites villes de la région d'Aquitaine. Je vais certainement revenir pour terminer la route à pied, mais mieux préparée cette fois.






Saturday, June 30, 2012

Tony Paglia at the Chelsea Inn

Tony Paglia, a talented singer and guitar player, has a raspy voice that can hold a world of sadness, but can also make you dance the night away. He is a passionate artist, versatile, easily switches from jazz to rock, and impresses with his focus and hard work. He is one of the few musician friends I know in Toronto who has built a successful career entirely from his singing and guitar playing.

You can see him perform with his band, The Nomads at the Windsor Casino on youtube. If you're looking for an amazing band for a special function, check his website.

And if you live in Toronto, you can enjoy his upcoming show at the Chelsea Inn's Monarchs Pub on July 13th.
















Jamming with musicians at De Sotos. Dan Bradley (guitar), Tony Paglia (vocals, guitar), Frank Sant (bass), Fernando Perri (drums).


Monday, May 21, 2012

Victoria Day Fireworks























Watching fireworks from my balcony was like having the best seat to the most amazing show ... The explosion of lights and colours was truly spectacular. I love the way the city goes crazy with fireworks fever on Victoria Day ...

Can't help adding a few quotes:

“... Fireworks had for her a direct and magical appeal. Their attraction was more complex than that of any other form of art. They had pattern and sequence, colour and sound, brilliance and mobility; they had suspense, surprise, and a faint hint of danger; above all, they had the supreme quality of transience, which puts the keenest edge on beauty and makes it touch some spring in the heart which more enduring excellences cannot reach.” Jan Struther, Mrs. Miniver

"You are born an artist or you are not. And you stay an artist, dear, even if your voice is less of a fireworks. The artist is always there." Maria Callas



Sunday, May 13, 2012

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's day to friends and mothers all over the world who have given so much of their lives for their children. I feel blessed to share the bond of motherhood with them. Having children is like creating a little miracle of love and joy, but it comes with many challenges, which women have been coping with as society and expectations change. Cheers to all mothers for the hard work they put into raising children.




Maternité by Picasso, one of my favourite mother and child paintings.


Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Daffodils by the lake

I spent the weekend by the lake, and these daffodils, so sprightly, as if announcing a bright summer, reminded me of Wordsworth's poem: "I wandered lonely as a cloud/ That floats on high o'er vales and hills,/ When all at once I saw a crowd,/ A host, of golden daffodils;/ Beside the lake, beneath the trees,/ Fluttering and dancing in the breeze ..."

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Where is spring?

Only a few weeks ago, I was in the country and this squirrel was enjoying the snow and suddenly it feels like summer, as if we've skipped spring entirely.

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Solitude

Here is a poem by Anna Akhmatova (translated from Russian) about the solitary work of the artist.


Solitude

So many stones have been thrown at me,
That I'm not frightened of them anymore,
And the pit has become a solid tower,
Tall among tall towers.
I thank the builders,
May care and sadness pass them by.
From here I'll see the sunrise earlier,
Here the sun's last ray rejoices.
And into the windows of my room
The northern breezes often fly.
And from my hand a dove eats grains of wheat
As for my unfinished page,
The Muse's tawny hand, divinely calm
And delicate, will finish it.















View from my apartment.
Doves don't eat grains of wheat from my hand
but birds dance across the sky while I sing.

Sunday, January 22, 2012

Lynda Covello at The Reservoir Lounge






















Lynda Covello, another very dear friend, and great jazz vocalist will be at The Reservoir Lounge this coming Thursday, January 26th, and also on February 14th, Valentine's day ... and guess what ... she will be with her Deep Dark Secrets ... mmhhhh ... come and find out what it's all about.

Friday, January 13, 2012

Wendy Weiler at The Reservoir Lounge















Wendy Weiler, a very dear friend is singing at The Reservoir Lounge, my favourite jazz club, on Tuesday January 17th at 7 pm. Wendy is a talented singer with a fabulous voice. You can hear a sample of it here. Please join us as it promises to be a fun evening. Way to go Wendy ...

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Happy holiday season to all

As I leave a challenging year behind, I prefer to think of all the positive things that did happen. I feel blessed with all the wonderful friends who have brightened my days with kind words, patient listening, or just a simple smile. Thank you for being there and for being who you are. These caring moments are like little stars of hope that lighten up the darkness as much as the heavy load, and inspire me to pass on the light to others. Wishing you all much love and peace for New Year 2012.

Tuesday, December 06, 2011

Freedom

Some inspiring quotes about freedom, that wonderful feeling of not being bound by conventions, expectations, the ability to live fully in the present without being tied down by the past or the future, the empowerment of being yourself, of making choices, and taking responsibility for them.

“No man is free who is not a master of himself.”
Epictetus

"Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth."
John F. Kennedy

"Love does not claim possession, but gives freedom."
Rabindranath Tagore

"Freedom makes a huge requirement of every human being. With freedom comes responsibility. For the person who is unwilling to grow up, the person who does not want to carry is own weight, this is a frightening prospect."
Eleanor Roosevelt

"For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others."
Nelson Mandela

"Art requires neither complaisance nor politeness; nothing but faith, faith and freedom."
Gustave Flaubert















Painting with my camera: a fleeting moment of wonder

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Jamming at De Sotos

We all need a break from work and daily pressures. What better way to relax than jamming at De Sotos. Tony Merante and Elizabeth Jackson have created a warm, friendly bistro atmosphere where everybody feels welcome, and many, whether they're singers, musicians, professionals or amateurs, have dropped by and let it all out at the open mic hosted by Anthony Abbatangeli, the most reliable and supportive host you'll ever meet. So, if you love music, come play and sing with us at De Sotos on Thursday evenings from 8 pm ...















Mike Meusel (Bass), Anthony Abbatangeli (guitar), Andi Duncan (vocals), John Bellisario (drums), Shaun Thomas (Sax)
















Ciaran O'Shea (guitar) and Fernando Perri (drums)
















Ray (Sax), Mike Meusel (Bass), Anthony Abbatangeli (guitar),Carlo Berardinucci (vocals), Shaun Thomas (Sax)























Sam Sharkawy (guitar), Anthony Abbatangeli (guitar), Wendy Weiler (vocals)

















Yours truly

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Back to the silence of writing

My show is over. It was such a thrill to share Mauritius with good old Toronto, especially English-speaking guests who were charmed by the island, intrigued by its multiculturalism, and thrilled by the atmosphere so français ... at Alliance Française de Toronto. It's fascinating how photos can finally explain what I could not in words to my friends.

I was touched by comments in the guest book: "Luscious, sensual, alive, lovely", "you've been given a good eye for capturing beauty", "simply breathtaking". Those from Mauritian-Canadians were very moving: "Faire moi gagne caffard", "ou ine capture l'essence de la vie mauricienne", "ça donne envie d'y retourner à la perle de l'océan indien".

To close off this show, here's an article in Le Matinal that my dear friend Helena Reich kindly wrote.

It's now time to buckle down and finish my novel. Back to the silence of writing. I totally believe in this quote from Gandhi that, "In the attitude of silence the soul finds the path in a clearer light, and what is elusive and deceptive resolves itself into crystal clearness. Our life is a long and arduous quest after Truth."

Monday, October 17, 2011

Kréolissime























Alliance Française is celebrating Creole Month with another not-to-be-missed event, Kréolissime, a celebration of dance, music and food from Mauritius and other creole-speaking countries, this coming Saturday at 8 pm at Alliance Française de Toronto, 24 Spadina Road, one block north of Bloor. Here is the invite:

Join us for a friendly and festive evening of Creole culture!

Alliance française de Toronto welcomes its members, students – and anyone who’s in the mood to party – to join us for Kréolissime!, a memorable evening of music and dance. The 17 musicians, singers and dancers of the Canaséga troupe will keep the joint jumping with a repertoire and dance moves straight from Mauritius.Tasty treats from Haiti and Guyana will also be available, and the rum bar will be open for you to sample some tropical concoctions.

Kréolissime !
October Saturday, 22nd, 8 pm – 11pm
Alliance Française de Toronto, 24 Spadina Road
5$; Free for members of the Alliance Française de Toronto + 1 guest

For reservation: Patricia Guérin at 416-922-2014, ext 35 or culturel@alliance-française.ca



Venez rejoindre l’ambiance chaleureuse et festive de cette soirée créole le samedi 22 octobre prochain !

Avant la venue de l’hiver, l’Alliance Française de Toronto propose une soirée pour se réchauffer et profiter de l’exotisme créole.

L’AFT accueille ses membres, ses étudiants et quiconque a envie de faire la fête, à l’occasion d’une soirée Kréolissime! La troupe Canaséga, et ses 17 musiciens, chanteuses et danseuses, vient chauffer l’ambiance; chants typiques de l’île Maurice et démonstration de danse sont au programme. Un stand aux saveurs créoles concocte des encas tout droit venus des îles. Et pour boire un verre, la rhumerie vous propose quelques breuvages exotiques.

Kréolissime !
Samedi 22 octobre, 20h – 23h
Alliance Française de Toronto, 24 Spadina Road
5$; Gratuit pour les membres et les étudiants de l’AFT + 1 invité

Pour réservation: Patricia Guérin au 416-922-2014, poste 35 ou culturel@alliance-française.ca


Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Media coverage for photo exhibition on Mauritius

Mauritius off the beaten path is getting much attention from the francophone media in Toronto, as well as in Mauritius.

CBC's French television, Le Telejournal Ontario showed a short 30 second clip of the exhibition on October 5th.

I was interviewed by Eric Cader on Pot Pourri, the French program at CIUT 89.5 FM, U of T's radio station, and also by Marjorie Murphy on CJBC 860 AM, Radio Canada's morning show, Y a pas deux matins pareils.

You can also read articles on the exhibition in two French newspapers in Toronto. Guillaume Garcia wrote 'L'Île Maurice, loin des touristes, près du coeur' in L'Express and Raphaël Lopoukhine wrote 'L'Île Maurice, loin des sentiers battus' in Le Métropolitain.

Pamela Glass, a great journalist, and a dear friend who writes for the magazine WorkBoat, also known as Pamela de St. Antoine, the Washington correspondent for Weekend newspaper in Mauritius, wrote an article about my show.


Île Maurice, hors des sentiers touristiques se fait parler d'elle à travers le média francophone ainsi qu'à l'Île Maurice.

Radio Canada, la chaîne de télévision française du Canada, a montré pour 30 secondes quelques photos de l'exposition sur Le Telejournal Ontario.

J'ai aussi fait une entrevue avec Eric Cader sur Pot Pourri, l'émission française de CIUT 89.5 FM, radio de l'Université de Toronto, et Marjorie Murphy sur CJBC 860 AM, l'émission du matin de Radio Canada, Y a pas deux matins pareils.

Des articles sur l'exposition ont paru dans deux journaux français de Toronto. Vous pouvez lire celui de Guillaume Garcia, 'L'Île Maurice, loin des touristes, près du coeur' dans L'Express et celui de Raphaël Lopoukhine 'L'Île Maurice, loin des sentiers battus' dans Le Métropolitain.

Pamela Glass, une amie et une excellente journaliste pour le magazine WorkBoat, qui est aussi connue sous le nom de Pamela de St. Antoine, la correspondante de Washington pour le journal Weekend à l'Île Maurice, a écrit 'Mauritius on display in Toronto'.

Thursday, October 06, 2011

Thank you for a wonderful opening reception
































Au vernissage avec Patricia et Audrey


Thanks to all who came to the opening reception of Mauritius, off the beaten path at Galerie Pierre-Léon on October 5th. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to over a hundred guests who made this evening a very special one. And thanks to Alliance Française de Toronto, especially Audrey Sommier, Patricia Guérin and Geneviève Trilling for being wonderful coordinators, and thanks to Jean-Claude Duthion, the departed director who chose this exhibition for Galerie Pierre-Léon, and thanks to the new director, Patrick Riba for his support. It was such an overwhelmingly positive evening and a great pleasure to share a little bit of Mauritius with you all.

For those who have not had a chance to see the show, it will be on until October 31st at Galerie Pierre-Léon, Alliance Française de Toronto, 24 Spadina Road (one block north of Bloor).

Merci à tout le monde d'être venu au vernissage à la Galerie Pierre-Léon. Votre présence en si grand nombre m'a vraiment touché. Merci à l'Alliance Française de Toronto, en particulier, Audrey Sommier, Patricia Guérin et Geneviève Trilling pour avoir été des superbes coordinatrices culturelles. Merci à Jean-Claude Duthion, l'ancien directeur qui a choisi cette exposition pour la Galerie Pierre-Léon, et merci au nouveau directeur, Patrick Riba pour son encouragement. C'était une soirée fantastique et c'était un plaisir de partager un tout petit peu de l'île Maurice avec vous.

Pour ceux qui n'ont pas eu l'occasion de voir l'expo, elle continue jusqu'au 31 octobre à la Galerie Pierre-Léon, Alliance Française de Toronto, 24 Spadina Road. 

Friday, September 16, 2011

Mauritius Off the Beaten Path

















Alliance Française of Toronto is celebrating International Creole Month with Mauritius, Off the Beaten Path, a photography show by Peggy Lampotang at Galerie Pierre Léon, 24 Spadina Road, from October 5th to 31st, 2011.

Mauritius is one of many Creole-speaking countries. Haiti, Guadeloupe, among others, share similar Creole heritage through French colonization. The language was developed by African slaves who worked on sugarcane plantations and helped with the construction of roads and buildings. Creole, considered a vernacular French, is now recognized as an official language.

Colonized by the French in 1715, and later by the English from 1810 to 1968 when it gained its independence, Mauritius is a country where inhabitants of French, African, Indian, and Chinese origin are united through the Creole language. The melding of races has created a general population, also called Creole, which forms a large part of its working class.

To live in Canada, photographer Peggy Lampotang left this lush island with its azure ocean, but the island has never left her. You may have heard of Mauritius, its famous blue penny stamp, its extinct dodo bird, the miracle of its economic growth, or perhaps enjoyed lying on its pristine beach, the one where Prince William spent his holidays. But beyond this enchanting façade, there are faces of people going about their daily chores, faces that the photographer invites you to discover off the beaten path.

In spite of its financial success and its skyscrapers, Mauritius still harbours makeshift houses assembled from panels of old corrugated aluminum where some live with so little that one is surprised by their warmth. These children who wander freely in the ocean, these fishermen who throw their nets at the crack of dawn, these street vendors who sell fruits, tomatoes, chicken, and noodles, their faces are sometimes marked by a hard life, but their resourcefulness and survival instinct prevail. Does their inspiration come from the intuitive communion with the natural wilderness, and the ever-present ocean?

Exhibition Opening : Wednesday October 5th at 6:30 pm at Alliance Française de Toronto, 24 Spadina Road
RSVP à culturel@alliance-francaise.ca or 416 922 2014 ext 37



Île Maurice hors des sentiers touristiques


L’Alliance Française de Toronto célèbre le mois créole avec Île Maurice, hors des sentiers touristiques, une exposition de photos de Peggy Lampotang à la Galerie Pierre Léon. Alliance Française de Toronto du 5 au 31 Octobre, 2011.

L’île Maurice, Haïti, la Guadeloupe et bien d’autres, partagent le même héritage créole issu de la colonisation française. Le créole a été développé par les esclaves d’origine africaine qui travaillaient dans les champs de cannes à sucre ou à la construction de rues et de bâtiments. Le créole, considéré comme un patois français, est maintenant devenue une langue officielle.

Colonisée par les français en 1715, puis par les anglais de 1810 à 1968, l’année où elle obtient son indépendance, l’île Maurice réunit des habitants d’origine française, africaine, indienne, et chinoise par une langue commune, le créole. Ce brassage donne naissance à la population dite créole qui fait largement partie de la classe ouvrière de l’île.

Pour vivre au Canada, la photographe Peggy Lampotang a quitté cette île verdoyante avec son océan d’azur, mais cette île, elle, ne l’a jamais quitté. Vous avez peut-être entendu parler de l'île Maurice, de son fameux timbre ‘blue penny’, de son dodo disparu, ou du miracle de sa croissance économique, ou vous avez peut-être eu le plaisir de vous allonger sur ses belles plages, là où le Prince William a passé ses vacances. Mais derrière cette façade féerique, il y a le visage, les visages de ce peuple, qui s’en va à son labeur, des visages que ce photographe vous invite à découvrir hors des sentiers touristiques.

Malgré son succès financier et ses gratte-ciels, l’île Maurice abrite encore des maisons assemblées de vieux panneaux en tôle où les gens vivent avec si peu qu’on s’étonne de leur nature chaleureuse. Ces enfants qui gambadent librement dans l’océan, ces pêcheurs qui lancent leurs filets à la première lueur du matin, ces vendeurs qui nous offrent leurs fruits, tomates, poulets, et nouilles, aux visages sont parfois marqués par une vie dûre, mais des visages qui montrent une force et un esprit de survie. Leur inspiration vient-elle de cette communion intuitive avec la nature sauvage et l'infini de l’océan?


Vernissage : mercredi 5 octobre à 18h30 à l’Alliance Française de Toronto, 24 Spadina Road.
RSVP à culturel@alliance-francaise.ca ou 416 922 2014 poste 37


Saturday, September 03, 2011

Mauritius
















Mauritius is very much on my mind these days. I visited the island with intense emotions a few weeks ago. First there was the high school reunion, which you can see on youtube thanks to Andy Wilkinson, our videographer extraordinaire ... This article in a Mauritian newspaper also sums up the wonderful time. It was so heart-warming to reconnect with school friends, and so awesome to go back in time, singing old songs, and feeling like a teenager all over again.

During my stay, I was lucky to meet a few talented artists, writers, and photographers who are changing the creative landscape of the island by sharing their giftedness with others. Their generosity and open-mindedness was inspiring.

Krishna Luchoomun, an accomplished visual artist who believes in bringing other artists together in non-conventional shows, put together a collective exhibition Art in the Forest by artists from countries along the Indian Ocean. It was a fascinating experience to walk through the damp forest, breathing in its earthy smell, and discovering a tree resplendent in aluminum foil, sleeping beauty waiting in her white bed, fat dodo birds gazing at us ... Ahhh conceptual art ... how it tickles our senses and imagination.

Barlen Pyamootoo, a brilliant writer who obtained the French literary prize, Prix du Roman Francophone for his book Benares, also directed a movie from the same book, that was featured at TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) in 2005. This author believes in sharing his love of literature with aspiring writers on the island, and created L’atelier de l’Ecriture, a series of workshops which culminates in an annual publication of the best work from these students. What incredible opportunities this dedicated teacher provides for the future generation of Mauritian writers.

Jameel Peerally, an outstanding photographer and teacher who kindly let me accompany him during some of his photography outings with his students, directs his discerning eyes not only to photography but to social justice. His photography book titled Chagossians orphans of the world, shows the plight of this nation's forced exile by the British to make way for an American military base. He is currently having a group exhibition titled In Focus to show the excellent work of his students. He is also spearheading a youth movement to protest the current state of affairs on the island, which you can read in more details in this manifesto. Sending him my support for a peaceful march and hope the movement will achieve positive changes for the island.

And last but not least, I'm preparing for a photography show on Mauritius in October at Galerie Pierre Léon at Alliance Française de Toronto. A bit overwhelmed lately by Mauritius, that tiny precious island in the Indian Ocean. Will post more info about the show soon.

Saturday, August 20, 2011

The Rainbow Catcher






















I would like to introduce you to my friend Chrisly Cheung, and her collection of short stories titled The Rainbow Catcher. Chris and I have dreamt together about writing and I was thrilled for her that her dream finally came true. She asked me to write a blurb on the back cover, and I gladly did. Her stories are very touching. Vivid details about life in Mauritius act as backdrop to the deeper meaning of each story.

"I met Chris in secondary school and was charmed by her fresh, childlike way of seeing things. Our lives took divergent paths, but our friendship survived through our shared passion for writing. Chrisly's depth of thoughts and feelings, and empathy for others are very much present in her collection of short stories. Her narratives explore relationships, innocent at times, yet complicated, with fate and spirituality weaving in their mystery, shaking our common beliefs, and challenging us to open up to another dimension where illusion and truth have no boundaries."

You can purchase the book at locations mentioned on her website and online at Amazon.com

Monday, July 18, 2011

Summertime

Summertime and the livin' is easy
...
One of these mornings
You're gonna rise up singing
Then you'll spread your wings
And take to the sky

Lyrics by George Gershwin

This song's tune has a sad lingering mood that seems to cling to me this summer, yet its lyrics are so hopeful, with tremendous potential and promises in the air. There's so much sunshine out there in the city, casting its light on people chatting happily in restaurant patios, children running in playgrounds, blooming flowers ...

Wishing you all a wonderful summer.

Monday, June 27, 2011

The Silence of Writing

I was in the country to work on my novel. Croaking frogs, twittering birds, and buzzing insects kept me company. This communion with nature swept away the bombardment of city noise and stimulations, and instilled much-needed peacefulness.

Writing in such silence by the lake is bliss to the creative soul.
















“We cannot see our reflection in running water.” Taoist quote

Tuesday, June 07, 2011

Forgiveness

When times are tough, I often find solace in quotes that remind me of our universal need for love, kindness and compassion. Forgiving those who have hurt us is not easy but it is part of our continuous efforts at improving relationships and creating a more pleasant world to live in.

Love is an act of endless forgiveness, a tender look which becomes a habit. ~ Peter Ustinov

If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion. ~ Dalai Lama

By swallowing evil words unsaid, no one has ever harmed his stomach. ~ Winston Churchill

Tenderness and kindness are not signs of weakness and despair but manifestations of strength and resolution. ~ Kahlil Gibran

A bit of fragrance always clings to the hand that gives roses. ~ Chinese Proverb















Contemplation
Le Grand Palais, Paris.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Art in Paris

Ah, a week in Paris. Reading and writing in cafés and bistros, wandering on cobblestoned streets, checking photography galleries, discovering new inspirations. Here are two shows that impressed me most during my visit.

Femmes Éternelles, a collection of 80 photos by Olivier Martel right on the fence of the Luxembourg gardens, is a celebration of women from diverse cultures. The photographer has captured with marvelous insight and sensitivity the depth of these women's souls. At a moment in my life when I feel the weight of women's difficult journeys in a world that seems more favourable to men, it was refreshing and such a relief to see this acknowledgement of women's fortitude, their resilience, their eternal inner beauty. I felt an immediate connection with this photographer and it was wonderful to meet him during his book signing.

Femmes Éternelles, une collection de 80 photos par Olivier Martel, sur les grilles du jardin Luxembourg, est une célébration de femmes de divers cultures. Ce photographe a capturé la profondeur d'âme de ces femmes avec une sensibilité et une compréhension qui me touchent beaucoup. En ce moment, le parcours difficile des femmes dans un monde qui me semble plus propice aux hommes, pèse beaucoup sur moi, et j'ai ressenti un allègement et une affinité immédiate envers ce photographe qui reconnaît le courage, la dignité, et la beauté intérieure de ces femmes éternelles. C'était merveilleux de le rencontrer pendant la dédicace de son livre.




































I love that this show is outdoors and available to a larger audience. This woman who was passing by while doing her errands, contemplates another eternal woman.

J'aime que cette exposition est en plein air et visible au grand public. Cette femme qui passait par là pendant ses courses, admire une autre femme éternelle.
















Enfants des rues, Madagascar, par Olivier Martel


Another show that impressed me was Leviathan, a sculpture by Anish Kapoor. This giant three-sphered balloon inflated up to the ceiling of the Grand Palais is compelling just through its sheer size.

Une autre exposition qui m'a beaucoup impressionnée est Leviathan, une sculpture de Anish Kapoor. Ce ballon géant de trois sphères qui atteint le plafond du Grand Palais nous subjuge par sa dimension gigantesque.















Viewed from inside, it feels as if one has entered a womb ... perhaps a woman's, or the interior of an eye, but it is up to the viewer to experience at a personal level the claustrophobic yet enlightening redness of the balloon whose fabric reflects light coming through the glass dome of the Grand Palais.

Vu de l'intérieur, on se sent dans le ventre ... d'une femme peut-être, ou à l'intérieur d'un oeil, mais c'est au spectateur de vivre personnellement l'expérience de ce ballon rouge claustrophobique et pourtant illuminé dont le tissu reflète la lumière qui passe à travers le dome vitré du Grand Palais.






















Viewed from outside, the sensual curves tower over us, making us feel tiny, insignificant against this somehow grotesque monstrosity that brings out our vulnerability and prompts us to find a deeper meaning in our reactions.

Vu de l'exterieur, les courbes sensuelles sont à une échelle qui nous rendent tout petits et insignifiants à coté de cette sculpture grotesque qui nous rend vulnérable et nous incite à trouver un sens plus profond à nos réactions.

I was intrigued by Anish Kapoor's work, and read interviews about how he enables expression rather than expresses any message in his sculptures. I totally get what he says about artists making mythologies when they inspire people to look beyond the art. Anish Kapoor projects great intimacy in the way he breathes and lives in his work. This artist's preoccupation with space and the way it relates to our soul keeps me wanting to read more about him.

J'étais intriguée par l'oeuvre d'Anish Kapoor et j'ai lu dans ses interviews qu'il veut rendre possible l'expression de la personne envers sa sculpture, et non exprimer un message. J'aime beaucoup ce qu'il dit sur les artistes qui créent une mythologie quand ils inspirent les gens à voir plus loin que l'objet d'art. Anish Kapoor projette une intimité dans la façon dont il respire et vit son art. Cet artiste parle de l'espace et sa relation avec notre état d'âme avec tant de conviction que je voudrais en lire plus sur lui.

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Celebrating architecture and successful friends

One of the good things about getting older is to see hard-working friends who shared modest beginnings (like living in warehouses, driving beat-up Beatles, going to repertory theatres ...) achieve success in their careers. Two dear friends, Diarmuid Nash, and Daniel Teramura are now partners in the internationally renowned architectural firm of Moriyama and Teshima Architects and have worked on many impressive projects such as these:
















Canadian War Museum
















Bata Shoe Museum

















The National Museum in Saudi Arabia

Bravo to Diarmuid and Dan for their inspiring designs. The philosophy of their architectural firm truly expresses who they are, kind and caring people with a passion for design:
"In the midst of our increasingly complex lives, we all yearn for simple reminders of our place in the world. We want our senses to be stimulated. We want to experience nature daily. We want to share spaces with our friends and neighbours. We want healthy workplaces. We want honour and respect. These are the kinds of values that inform our work."

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

About the unforeseen in art

"The unforeseen is the most beautiful gift life can give us. That is what we must think of multiplying in our domain. … Art is inconceivable without risk, without inner sacrifice; freedom and boldness of imagination can be won only in the process of work, and it is there that the unforeseen I spoke of a moment ago must intervene, and there no directives can help."
Boris Pasternak

This quote from the author of Dr. Zhivago expresses so clearly one of the deepest truths about art whether it's painting, writing, music, etc.


















Spring is here, its crisp light peeking through a dried up leaf that sat gracefully on this branch all winter.

Saturday, March 12, 2011

Music at De Sotos

Since I last wrote about the open mike that my talented friend Anthony Abbatangeli hosts at De Sotos, singers, guitarists, drummers, saxophonists, bassists, key board players, violinists, percussionists have been dropping by to create their own magic on Thursday evenings.

Music is such a visceral form of expression. It sweeps musicians into a rhythm that acquires a life of its own, and transports us into a state in which nothing else matters but the sounds and sensations that are pulsating through our bodies. It brings out spontaneity, creativity and a sense of camaraderie and warmth that is cathartic.

If you sing, play a musical instrument or just love listening to music to unwind from a hard day’s work, join Anthony and friends for a fun Thursday evening at De Sotos on St. Clair West and Lauder.















My dear friend Lynda Covello, jazz vocalist, sings a duet with Jim Fabro. Budi on bass, Noah on guitar and Bernie on saxophone.

















Tony, our rock star sings Hot Legs. Anthony Abbatangeli, host extraordinaire, on guitar

Monday, February 21, 2011

February in Toronto























There's something fragile about February. Dried-up vine leaves that cling delicately onto branches, icicles that hang precariously from bare trees, crisp pristine snow that flatten into the shape of our steps, and pervading it all, a snappish grey weather that threatens to shatter our cheerfulness.

I took a walk along one of the ravines that run stealthily under the boisterous belly of Toronto. A deep cleansing breath of cold air while observing the elegant lines of the nature trail, and slowly brittle emotions firm up with resolve. One of the reasons I love this city is its balance of contrasts. Hard concrete masses rise above soft organic forests. Coldness and warmth side by side.

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Mauriciens enfants de mille races





















I've been reading books about Mauritius. Mauriciens enfants de mille races and Mauriciens enfants de mille combats by Jean-Claude de L'Estrac, show how centuries of history mould our social environment and affect us in ways we are often not aware of.

De L'Estrac's detailed account of the island's beginnings, from colonization, slavery, to migration of indentured labourers, exposes the roots of its inhabitants. I could feel the plight and struggles of all these ancestors, these immigrants who faced tremendous hardships, who toughened it, who dreamt of a better life for themselves and their children, whether they were French, Africans, Indians or Chinese. These people helped to build the island where I grew up.

Reading this book brought much awareness of how the history of Mauritius has shaped the person I am. Even though I call Canada home for over 30 years, a little part of me is still attached to the island, that feeling of being indeed a child of all races, un enfant de mille races .

Monday, January 03, 2011

Lynda Covello at The Reservoir Lounge















A great beginning to the New Year. My dear dear friend, Lynda Covello, the lawyer with the sultry, seductive voice, is singing at The Reservoir Lounge on Wednesday, January 12, 2011, 7:00 to 9:00pm. More details on her website

It will be a wonderful treat to hear Lynda sing, a great way to warm the heart during these cold days. Since I last wrote about her here , Lynda has impressed me with her determination to pursue her dream. She's put in many, many hours of work, as well as her heart and soul in her singing.

The Reservoir Lounge is one of my favourite jazz clubs, warm, cozy, vibrant. You can feel your body absorbing the musical vibes, and you can even shake it all out on its tiny dance floor.

Please join us for a terrific evening which I hope will skyrocket Lynda's career as a professional singer.

Saturday, December 04, 2010

December's wintry beauty

When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us.
Helen Keller

Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.
Albert Einstein

You must be the change you wish to see in the world.
Mahatma Gandhi

A difficult year is ending and the quotes above reflect my current state of mind. December is here with its wintry beauty. This little drop of ice hanging on a dormant branch with buds waiting to burst into spring blossoms says it all.

Saturday, October 16, 2010

A very sad loss

Words cannot express the pain my family and I feel from the tragic loss of my brother's wife. Helene was so sweet, gentle, and kind. My heart is crying out while my mind is trying to come to terms with the senselessness of it all ...

But I know she will always be with us in spirit ...
for my brother and my niece ...


"Say not in grief that she is no more
but say in thankfulness that she was
A death is not the extinguishing of a light,
but the putting out of the lamp
because the dawn has come."

Tagore


Saturday, October 09, 2010

The High Road












Terry Fallis has done it again. The High Road, the sequel to his award winning novel, The Best Laid Plans is a compelling read. With enough action to flip the pages fast, enough honest, caring, politicians to regain faith in the system (even though temporarily), enough satire about Canadian politics to inform us about the sad, inner workings of parliament, enough feisty seniors and fine young men in wild outfits to discourage stereotyping, enough wit to feel charmed, enough slapstick humour to laugh out loud, and well ... enough romance to go ooohh ahhhh ...

Terry is a friend, and I can't help seeing little bits of his personality in the fictional character of Daniel Addison, that same wit and humour, that same integrity, but with none of the gaucherie that gives Daniel a propensity to slip and fall on icy porches with no clothes on ...

Now, if that's intrigued you, the book can be purchased at any major bookstores or online. It's a light read and feel-good novel. Well done, Terry. Good luck.

Tuesday, September 07, 2010

Gandhi on love















I was in Mauritius for a short trip and walked for a long, long stretch along this beach at Flic en Flac. It was so calming to watch the waves swell back and forth and splash their foamy frills along the shore. Such a wonderful way to relieve the stress that had accumulated over the last months ...

While I was there, inspired by a friend's fascination for Gandhi, I finished reading The Essential Gandhi, an anthology on his writings, his life, work and ideas. Here's a man who dared to dream of freedom for his country, a man who held on to his belief in non-violence, and just marched with unshakable conviction towards his goal. We need more visionaries like him to lead this world, visionaries who are not sidetracked by the lure of material gains, visionaries who believe in the inherent good in people, and have the ability to bring it out.

This quote from Gandhi reflects what I've always felt about the far-reaching power of love.

"We are bound by the ties of love … Scientists tell us that without the presence of the cohesive force amongst the atoms that comprise this globe of ours it would crumble to pieces and we would cease to exist, and even as there is cohesive force in blind matter so much must there be in all things animate and the name for that cohesive force among animate beings is love … where there is love, there is life, hatred leads to destruction …"

Wednesday, August 04, 2010

Moving on with love
















Time is flying. I feel as if I'm riding on summer 's overheated and restless wings. Going through major changes in my life right now. I'm moving on towards new creative horizons ... Hope to write more regularly in the fall when things settle down.

Finished reading Nietzsche's Beyond Good and Evil. His conviction that "All living thing desires above all to vent its strength ..." and that self-preservation is only a consequence of this will to power, gave me much food for thought, casting a different light in the current way I see relationships, its struggles, and the reason why some marriages don't work and others do.

However, Nietzsche's claim that men have more depth than women shows that even a deep-thinking man like him can be shallow. His condescending view of women as superficial creatures who want to be possessed, is sexist, and lacks true knowledge of the complicated feminine nature.

He seems to take pleasure in challenging preconceptions by pushing thoughts to the extreme, thoughts that repel, yet intrigue and tend to divert comfortable thoughts towards unnerving directions. For example when he writes, " ... woman would like to believe that love can do everything – it is her characteristic faith. Alas, he who knows the heart divines how poor, stupid, helpless, arrogant, blundering, more prone to destroy than save is the best and deepest love."

We have all experienced at some point or other the destructive aspects of "falling in love". But love is so much broader than the raw feelings of couples. It encompasses friendships and kind feelings for others that bring a spiritual and emotional level of connection that is uplifting ... perhaps the will to love is the feminine version of the will to power.

Sunday, June 27, 2010

A sad day for Toronto

I expected peaceful demonstrations and was shocked by the violence on Toronto Streets. It is sad to see so much energy spent on destruction. Here are some quotes that reflect best my thoughts on this matter.


"La violence, sous quelque forme qu'elle se manifeste, est un échec." Jean-Paul Sartre
Violence, no matter in what form it shows itself, is a failure.

"An eye for eye only ends up making the whole world blind.” Mahatma Gandhi

“When liberty comes with hands dabbled in blood it is hard to shake hands with her.” Oscar Wilde

"Non-violence leads to the highest ethics, which is the goal of all evolution. Until we stop harming all other living beings, we are still savages." Thomas A. Edison

"At the center of non-violence stands the principle of love." Martin Luther King, Jr.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

World cup fever in Toronto

Toronto is effervescent. Flags of countries participating in the world cup are flapping on top of cars. Some vehicles even sport flags of three different countries. The city feels so international, so warm and expressive. FIFA world cup is just another opportunity for Canadians to celebrate their country of origin. When cars honk at passers by on the street, waving the flag of the country that just won, it's so natural to wave back and share the excitement. It doesn't matter who won. I cheer for all of them. I love this city.

The G20 summit is making the core of the city inaccessible ... a nightmare for car drivers. Full coverage in the papers range from Toronto being on the world stage to fashion tips about how women should dress for a demonstration ...!

Spring has bloomed into summer. I feel as if I'm floating now that I can walk around in sandals and cotton dresses. Hope has bubbled into enlightenment. There is so much positive energy around ... so much love to be shared.

Wishing you all a glorious summer ...
















Clear Lake on a peaceful, soul-searching weekend

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Nietzsche on morality of "the herd"

When going through challenging times, I tend to read whatever helps to clear my confused mind and heart. Usually, some psychology or self-help book. But this time, just because it was lying around for future reading, I threw myself into Nietzsche's Beyond Good and Evil.

It is perhaps odd that I would choose to struggle through such complicated thoughts when my mind is in a state of chaos. But a perverse will that ignores soothing meditation, and craves knowledge pushed past any protest. I charged through the book like a desperate person hacking away at dense jungle vegetation. With the blind faith of finding light. And a few rays of clarity did peek through.

In spite of the arrogance with which Nietzsche tears apart other philosophers, I do admire his deep insight.

The chapter On the Natural History of Morals did not offer solutions to my confusion, but strengthened my own beliefs. Here's Nietzsche's observation on the moral perspective of the community in the 19th century, that I find very pertinent, "... everything that raises the individual above the herd and makes his neighbour quail is henceforth called evil; the fair, modest, obedient, self-effacing disposition, the mean and average in desires acquires moral names and honours."

As an artist, I tend to stay away from the repressive morality of what Nietzsche describes disparagingly as "the herd". I often sadly see reason used as a manipulative tool to conform to moral standards that tend to kill the creative soul. Societal guidelines are of course conducive to peace and order, but we're all individuals and find fulfillment and happiness in different ways.

In the end, it is more important to be true to ourselves while respecting the morality of others without having to conform to them. And I'm glad I'm not living during Nietzsche's era. Things have really loosened up since then...

Spring is here and the trees are showing their sexy lingerie, as my friend Judy loves to describe the lacy pattern of budding leaves. It is time to leave behind the "winter of our discontent" and embrace the new hopes of spring ...

Sunday, May 02, 2010

Thanks

Thanks to all who came to the show opening of Canadian Women Revealed yesterday. It was so wonderful to reconnect with friends I haven't seen in a while, to see familiar faces as well as new ones. Your support is so heart-warming. Thanks Tony, Kieran, and Liz for being such wonderful hosts and for serving the delicious appetizers.

To all those who took part in the contest, good luck. For those who haven't had a chance to drop by De Sotos, the exhibition runs until May 30th. Contest closes on last day and results will be announced by June 4th. I will be there every Thursday evening from 6 pm as well as Sunday morning from 11 am to 2 pm. Looking forward to seeing you there ...


Saturday, April 17, 2010

Canadian Women Revealed

An invitation to my photography show for Contact Photography Festival. Hope to see you there.























Photography Exhibition: Canadian Women Revealed
Date: May 1-31, 2010
Location: De Sotos, 1079 St. Clair Ave West at Lauder, Toronto
Hours: Tues-Sat 5-11 pm Sunday 11am-11pm
Opening Reception: Saturday, May 1st, 4-6 pm

What defines the Canadian woman? Without the trappings that mark her station in life, can you tell the lawyer from the artist? Is ethnicity skin deep? This exhibition presents portraits of women without their clothes on. The viewer is invited to guess the profession and ethnic background of the women in this suggestive documentary project that challenges personal, social, and cultural preconceptions.


Friday, February 12, 2010

Conquer ... with love

"Toutes les batailles de la vie nous enseignent quelque chose, même celles que nous perdons."
Paulo Coelho

All the battles in life teach us something, even those we lost.


Coming back brought many sad issues to deal with. The passing away of my mother-in-law. The plight of Haitians, after the devastating effect of the earthquake, is still with us. Looking at the brighter side, the effervescence of the Winter Olympics, because it's on Canadian soil, has spread its positive vibes over the city, over our snow-filled country.

And yes, I believe that love does resolve a lot of problems.

"Whenever you are confronted with an opponent, conquer him with love."
Mahatma Gandhi

Wishing you all lots of love for Valentine's day ...

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Venus d'ailleurs - The story of Chinese immigration in Mauritius

A bonus to my photo exhibition trip: the documentary on Chinese Immigration in Mauritius, the last one in a series of four was launched a few days before I left.

Here's a preview, and an article on the film by Alain Gordon-Gentil and David Constantin.

I contributed to the documentary while I was visiting China to retrace my father's footsteps. Watching the finished product on a giant screen, in a theatre packed with 300 people was awesome. The music, words, and images seemed as if they were magically put together in this dramatic production that recounts the life of Chinese immigrants, among them my father.

Thanks to Alain Gordon-Gentil's vision, his desire to share with the world the richness of his beloved island's history and culture, we now have a series of four documentaries to better understand Mauritius, its people, and what makes it thrive as a nation.

The documentaries can be purchased from Pamplemousses Production.
Tel: 230-247-1093
E-mail: pamprod@intnet.mu

Tuesday, February 09, 2010

What a wonderful world ...

I've come back to earth when I landed in Toronto on Sunday. The photo exhibition in Mauritius was such an overwhelmingly positive experience that I felt as if I was floating in another reality, a warm, seductive, tropical one.

The Photography Museum is an amazing little treasure nestled in the heart of Port-Louis, the island's capital. It was such a privilege to exhibit in this old stone house built centuries ago by French colonials. The museum was created by Tristan Bréville and his wife, Marie-Noëlle. Their dedication to photography, and Mauritian history and culture is truly inspiring. They seem to be at the hub of a larger community of talented Mauritians. Through the Brévilles, I've met artists, photographers, musicians, writers, and could finally sense the creative pulse of the island. And love it so much that I'd like to go back there every few years to mingle with those artists and exchange ideas and perhaps work on projects together.

It was also wonderful to renew contact with friends from high school. And so neat to recognize them after three decades. It was always the eyes that brought back memories of them as teenagers, that brought back that instant connection of having shared many special moments together. The eyes, truly the windows of the soul.

We got together for dinner, and my dear friend Angèle brought a guitar. Such a thrill to strum along as we all sang french ballads of Françoise Hardy, Barbara and Georges Moustaki. It's amazing how music brings back memories, and have a way of flooding one's senses with the melancholy of that time.

Friends and relatives were so warm and supportive, making the show a memorable experience. Mahen Bujun, a talented cameraman and a terrific friend, filmed the opening reception but I have yet to learn how to put it online.

There were so many positive reviews and coverage on the exhibition that I felt really spoiled, like a kid wallowing with delight in the warm welcome: radio & TV interviews, numerous newspaper articles.

After the show was over, it was fun to trek around the island, take photos in villages along the coast, and meet Mauritians going about their daily tasks along the breathtaking backdrop of mountains, sugarcane fields, and shimmering sea. I hope to tell their stories in pictures in an exhibition in Toronto next year. Thanks to all who drove me around to show me the Mauritius they love. Harold, Ahfee, Monique, Ahlien, Angèle, Ahlan, Patrick, Eric, Robert, Bernard, Tristan, Alain, it wouldn't have been the same without you.

Thanks also to Christiane and Dominique for introducing me to Rodrigues, an unspoiled island that is part of Mauritius but did not develop as fast. It has retained its natural charm with cows and goats grazing freely near streets, people walking about, their contours outlined against an endless sky, and a constant, ever-present sea.

And thanks to everybody who came to the show, I hope you were inspired by photos of le Canada que j'aime, and will visit some time.
















Guests listening to the opening comments by the mayor of Port-Louis.
Photo by Tristan Bréville

Sunday, December 27, 2009

Photography Exhibition in Mauritius






















Wishing you all a Happy New Year. Hope we all get one step closer in achieving our dreams ...

I'm starting the year 2010 with a photography exhibition that opens on January 12th. For those who live in Mauritius or will be there in January, please do drop by. I'm looking forward to meeting you all. It will be such a treat to reconnect with friends I have lost touch with since I left over 30 years ago for Canada.

I was so thrilled when the museum director, Tristan Bréville invited me to exhibit my work at the museum. Such a wonderful opportunity to share what I love about Canada, while going back to my roots. It comes at a time when I've been doing a lot of soul searching ... growing up on the island seems so distant and yet it's still so much part of who I am.

I wish I could bring all my Canadian friends with me ...