VanFolkVicFolk

VicFolk, meet the Belle Miners: a female trio from Australia/Canada that exudes dense harmonies, clever lyrics and a liberating, joyous sound. We talked with Felicia Harding (also of local band Fortune Killers) about her growing project with Jaime Jackett and Marina Avros.

Short and Sweet:

1)What words best describe you?

Hopeful & Harmonious!

2)What do you love spending your time on, besides music?

Permaculture, pottery, yoga and communing with nature.

3)What words best describe your community (who you hang with)?

Bird Nerds, other musicians and creatives!

4)What are the top 3 things you place emphasis on in the music biz?

Integrity, skill, courage.

5)Where do you live and what places do you love to haunt in that neighborhood?

I live on Fort St. I love Picnic, Bubby Rose’s Bakery and Beacon Hill Park.

6)What are three words (positive or negative!) that would describe Victoria to you?

Healthy, bicycles, wet (haha)!

7)Where are you taking the rest of the Belle Miners while they’re in town to show off Victoria’s digs?

Jaime enters the room declaring “Pleeeeeeease take me to Habit. Please, please, please” (so there’s that)! Also, Felicia plans to take the group to Cafe Bliss, Origin Bakery and Hawk & Hen.

8)What do you think makes Victoria unique from other cities?

Victoria is more eco-concious as a whole. You can ride your bike basically anywhere and get there faster than driving!

Getting to know you more:

1)Have you lived here all of your life? If so, what defines Victoria as “Home” for you? If not, when did Victoria first feel like “Home” for you?

I am lucky enough to be able to say yes, I have lived here (basically) all of my life! My family moved here when I was 4. I’d say the oceans, fresh lush greenery and flowers make it home. The landscapes are always a welcomed sight when arriving home from a long tour. I like to take a deep breath when I get off the plane and feel myself instantly hydrate!

2)Why do you love being an entrepreneur in this town? What makes it rewarding?

Victoria is full of creative people and creative businesses. I feel supported and inspired by this community! Victoria is excited to hear that you’re an artist and entrepreneur. I love creating shared experiences and memories with people.

3)What are some life lessons you’ve learned working as an indie artist and entrepreneur?

Working alone is impossible unless you have oodles of cash and an endless supply of inner chi. The people on your team are the single most important aspect of your career and goals. You need team mates who can go to bat for you, help you accomplish the things you don’t understand or haven’t learnt yet, and to back you up when shit goes down. You can polish your instrument playing and singing all you like (and you should), but nothing is as important as the people on your team. Bandmates, managers, publicists, makeup goddesses (like Erin Bradley!)…all of them…make sure they’re on your side and then nurture those relationships!!

Enter the full Belle Miners trio for the last questions:

4)How is Victoria a supportive community for indie artists and musicians? Or does Victoria have some things to learn in this category?

Victoria loves the arts and music in particular. Over the last few years, we’ve seen this city thrive with festivals, events and venues. We especially have Atomique productions and The Zone to thank for that! There is a definite feeling of community and collaboration here amongst the musicians…something that is noticeably lacking in some other Canadian cities we’ve lived.

5)Anything exciting coming up for you as a musician?

Belle Miners are touring Australia for the fourth time!!!! This time with publicity and an amazing album… www.belleminers.com

A Canadian tour is coming in October and we are so excited to announce those dates once they’re ready to show off!

(Felicia’s other band, Fortune Killers, is also playing a show with Fake Shark at Capitol Ballroom in Victoria on December 16th!)

6)What do you miss most about home when on tour? What do you most look forward to doing when you get off tour?

Jaime says: Being a complete dag and hanging out with my man and cooking my own beautiful food just the way I like it. Marina pipes in: My Dog Ember! Felicia: Yep, hangin’ with my man and my two little kitties! Plus, playing keys and rocking out with Fortune Killers! 😉

Don’t miss the Fortune Killers and Fake Shark at the Capitol Ballroom: https://www.ticketweb.ca/event/fake-shark-fortune-killers-capital-ballroom-formerly-sugar-nightclub-tickets/7778935

Victoria, meet growing Fernwood's newest (and stylish) addition, Luna Collective. Selling locally handmade and vintage finds, Luna Collective is a fun store because every time you go back, there are new treasures to discover. We sat down with owner Eryn Beattie to talk about her business, passions and favourite places to go in the city.

Quick get-to-know-you's:

1) What words best describe you?

Passionate, Positive, Adventurous.

2) What do you love spending your time on?

Sailing, Sewing, Camping, Thrifting.

3) What words best describe your friend circle?

Creative Adventurers.

4) What top 5 things do you place most importance on in your life, from most important to less important?

That's a hard one! Different things are more important at different times. Overall, 5 very important things to me are:

family and friends,

my cat,

being free to follow whichever path I choose,

my creative process,

and a positive environment.

5) What are the top 3 things you place emphasis on in your business?

I place emphasis on sustainability, fostering a community, and having great products at approachable prices.

6) Your store is based in the Fernwood Village. What do you love about that neighbourhood?

I love the fact that the neighbourhood has a huge community atmosphere. I like that I know my neighbours' names and that the neighbourhood has been so supportive of my store opening. I love that there are markets happening right outside my door and I love the unique beauty of the neighbourhood that has been created by the people who live in it.

7) What are other businesses you love to visit in your store's neighbourhood?

I especially love to visit Mesa Familia, Cornerstone Café and the Fernwood Inn. These places fuel me on certain days. I also love Black Cat Tattoo, 7 Rays and the Fernwood NRG.

8) Where do you live and what places do you love to haunt in that neighbourhood?

I live downtown on the water. I have lived on a boat for the last 2 years, so I suppose you could say I live alternatively to some. There is so much to see and do downtown that I try to check out places I haven't been to. I like to frequent the thrift stores downtown, as I love to browse for hidden gems.

9) What are three words (positive or negative) that would describe Victoria to you?

Special, Vast, Beautiful.

10) If someone from Vancouver were visiting Victoria for the first time, where would you send them to check out the scene?

That is a tough question because it depends what the person is into, but I'd likely send them to see live music, eat good food and to check out some of the art culture Victoria offers.

11) Where do you love to visit when going to Vancouver?

When I am in Vancouver I like to visit my grandparents in North Vancouver, see Granville Island and just wander around downtown finding new things to do.

12) What do you think makes Victoria unique from Vancouver?

I think Victoria is unique in the sense that people want to engage with each other and want to help each other. It feels like one big community.

Really getting to know you's:

1) Have you lived here all of your life? If so, what defines Victoria as "Home" for you? If not, when did Victoria first feel like "Home" for you?

I grew up in Cobble Hill, so Victoria was always a close trip from my childhood home. In high school I started to visit Victoria more to see shows or check out events. That's when I started to fall in love with Victoria. I moved here in 2011 but I think it first really felt like home in 2012. It took a little while to build my own community and after I moved to my second house in Victoria and adopted my cat, I was definitely at home.

2) Why do you love being an entrepreneur? What makes it rewarding?

I like being an entrepreneur because it gives me the opportunity to engage with my community. I love meeting people and sharing similar passions with people. Since starting my own Vintage and Upcycled clothing business, I have met so many amazing people and each person has helped me to keep pushing forward. This brought me to opening my store. I find it rewarding to share moments with unique people and connect over a similar love.

3) What are some life lessons you've learned being an entrepreneur?

I have learned that everyone has a different way of doing things. I interact with a lot of other entrepreneurs and some do things quite differently from me. The lesson I've taken from that is to do what feels right. I am proud of the way I operate my business.

4) Do you want to give a shout out to anyone or a group of people who helped you become successful at your current business?

There are so many people that I would like to shout out to that it might be too long to name them all! My partner Forest is a huge support to me and is often there to do the grunt work at markets or to help set up the store. He fully supports me through it all. I'd also like to thank Sheena and Andrew of Retro Repurposed who have been amazing throughout this journey. Their basement became my first studio space and the endless kindness they have shown continues to amaze me. Everyone who was a part of the pop-up shop I co-owned for the summer was amazing to work with and they all had a part in giving me the confidence to open my own store. All of the artists whose work I currently have in the store mean the world to me for trusting me and wanting to be a part of this journey with me. My Mom and Dad are also huge supporters and they mean the world to me. They always have my back. And possibly the most important shout out to make is to every single person who has supported me in the past 2 years. Whether it be coming out to a market I vended at, saying hi, buying something from me, getting excited about what I make, or stopping in at the new store, it all means the world to me.

5) How is Victoria a supportive community for indie businesses, or does Victoria have some things to learn in this category?

Victoria is a supportive community for indie businesses by having so many community members that believe in alternative methods. It is individuals in Victoria that make small businesses like mine stay afloat. Members of our community want to buy local and be face to face with shop owners, artists and small business owners. It creates a connection that big box stores aren't able to achieve. I think the disconnect, where Victoria can learn more about being supportive, is higher than the small business owner and the small business supporter. Small businesses need more support from city and neighbourhood leaders. I see a lot of empty retail spaces in Victoria and it would be great to have city leaders work with small businesses to fill these empty spaces with more local shops.

6) Anything exciting coming up for the biz?

The store has just been open since the beginning of September, but I haven't yet hosted an opening party. I would love to make that happen by the end of October - to bring people together to celebrate. There are so many people that have supported me on this journey and to have them all in the space together celebrating would mean a lot to me. As for other exciting things, I hope to host some workshops towards the end of the year and into the new year. I want the store to be interactive for the community and the makers involved. Workshops are a great way to meet the people who are making the products that fill the space. This helps create a unique connection that you can't find shopping at big chain stores.

7) Lastly, and for fun, if your business were an animal, which animal would it be and why?

If my business were an animal, I think it would be a moth. Moths navigate by lunar light and one of their best qualities is their determination. I think the determination of myself matches that of a moth, and as the name of my store is Luna Collective, the moth is the perfect animal counterpart for the shop. (Look out for the shop logo and sign coming very soon. You might find that the moth is featured)!

---

Vicfolk, meet Emily Scholes, maker behind cozy toque and flower crown company Olann Handmade in Victoria, BC. We caught up with her during this chilly spring (perfect toque time) to chat about the weather...and other things…

What describes you?

Dreamer, homebody, hard-working, a bit of a ranter.

What is the basis of your business?

On trend. Inspired by nature and the heart.

Who is your community?

Close friends, creators and family.

Which neighbourhood do you live in?

Vic West.

Describe your neighbourhood.

A sweet little spot that keeps getting better and better. Nestled by the Gorge and within walking distance to town...I think it will soon become the next big thing!

What do you like about your hood?

Small, quiet and well situated. Great amenities and fabulous, local shops.

Name three Vic West haunts you frequent.

Hold General, Fry’s bakery, Victoria Sushi.

What are three things you adore about Van Isle?

The water and beaches.

Island life (camping, taking a drive, visiting small nooks across the island).

When those visiting our island and city tell me how lucky I am to live here, because I know I am.

What are three things that drive you crazy about where you live?

Passive aggressive people.

The cost of ferries.

The near constant wind.

Where are your favourite places to go in the greater area?

Dallas Road.

Visiting our locally owned, little stores.

Tofino.

Wine in the afternoon on a patio downtown.

Describe what “home” means to you.

Where the husband, kitties and art is. Clean and fresh. Flowers in vases in every room. Not wanting to leave.

If you moved here from somewhere else, when was the first time Van Isle felt like home? Do you plan to stay here for a long time?

I grew up in other places in Canada and in the UK. Will Vancouver Island ever feel like home? I’m not sure. But for now I plan on staying and continuing to make it my home. I always dream of downsizing to an even smaller island, but that dream is in the distant future.

What are some lessons you learned being an entrepreneur/maker here?

There is such a strong community for makers in this part of the world.  There are local customers who value locally made goods and are prepared to support their artisans. It’s a lot of work but if you put in the effort and produce enough merchandise, it does pay off.

How do you feel supported as a business owner/maker in your home?

In my home, my husband and family support my endeavors. It is not an easy job, especially since I already have another full time job, but for me it satisfies my creative outlets to be able to “make” in the spare time I carve out for my craft.

How often do you "hone your craft"? What are the hours or efforts put in with your business?

I make practically every day. I am always working on something whether it is an order, a new design that I am trial-and-erroring, or just ploughing away at getting pieces made for upcoming events. It is rare that there is a day that I am not working on something. So when I get home from my day job, I maybe sit for a few minutes or start the laundry or do the dishes. Then I begin my other job as maker for the few hours I have left in the day before dinner calls and bed soon follows!

What's next for you in your business? What are you excited to expand into?

The most pressing thing on my to-do list is to approach local retailers about stocking my items. I have a to-do list a mile long but essentially this is my next big step. I am also going to start producing a Summer and Winter collection for Olann that will feature beautiful linen and cotton fine knits and virgin wool and alpaca sweaters and accessories. I want Olann to be the company local people think about when they consider making their next knit purchase. I am also in the process of applying for 2017 markets and have just signed up for my first one, The Craft Cartel 2017.

This is a blog about Victoria and Vancouver. Do you notice any areas of overlap between the two cities? What about differences?

I don’t visit Vancouver enough to comment too specifically, but there is a general “West Coast” vibe that resonates though both locations. I think Islanders think they are more relaxed but this might just be a misguided perception! Victoria is a smaller city and doesn’t feel as frenetic as Vancouver. Victoria is a bit less multicultural in some respects as well, but both cities now have great bike lanes!

What do you like to do when you visit Vancouver?

Go to the beaches, do a little shopping, eat food on Commercial Drive, visit Stanley Park, ride my bike though Gastown and go for lunch and visit art galleries in the area.

What do you show people in Victoria or on the island when they visit from other places?

Beacon Hill Park and Dallas Road, Sooke and Sombrio Beach, Coombs and Tofino and Goats on the Roof, camping, the Gulf Islands, whale watching. I take them out for amazing food, picnics in the park, and bike rides all over town.

What do you hope for the next generation of people in your hood?

That it only becomes more cool, more developed and offers more interesting social activities!

Lastly, is there anything about the island that makes you go "aww, my home!"

Every time I drive off the ferry in Swartz Bay and head into Victoria I sigh and always feel so thankful to be back on the island. It always just feels different from where I have come from in the best possible ways.

Photos: Le Marche, Six Acres, Charlotte and the Quail, View from little Mt Doug

Hey VanFolk and VicFolk who love their hometowns. Today we celebrate mid February, love, and the upcoming long weekend opportunity to travel between our sister cities. Here are a few quick ideas for local joints that encourage a bit more love in our lives, whether through our tastebuds, connection with our community, or romantic atmosphere and PNW design.

VanVic’s top in Van:

Hawksworth - These guys, located in the lovely Rosewood Hotel Georgia, win best in show every time. There’s no need going into the details of why they are so fabulous. You just have to go there and taste all of the details they meticulously put into their meals. What better time to love your tastebuds than on a romantic February eve?

Vijs - We always pick this one as our top because it delivers every time. Romantic, low lit dining room, busy and exciting waiting room with original, strong cocktails and hors d'oeuvres for all, and the best naan we have had (which accompanies every plate). They never (!) take reservations (which is part of the reason we love this joint), so be ready to wait - maybe start up a convo? - with your fellow community members knowing that good things take time.

Les Faux Bourgeois - Amazing French food, beautiful and classic french interior (all the way to the authentic french accents in the wait staff) and great value. A classic neighbourhood joint.

The Acorn - If you’re feeling more veggie forward, you must try the mouth watering creations (and cocktails) at this main street establishment. You’ll forget all about the M word after a dinner here.

The Nook - named after the adorable (and coveted) table in the restaurant’s nook, this West End establishment has been turning out high quality Italian for quite some time. With a second location in Kits that is close to the water, this restaurant beckons the diner to the beach after the meal.

Le Marche - Tucked in one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Van, Le Marche does crepes traditional styles and serves up lovely lavender lattes to accompany. It makes a great, ambiance-filled brunch spot with its moody PNW dark hues, handspun wool blankets and chic farmhouse feel. If you feel like cooking a romantic dinner for someone special (or for yourself, for that matter), Le Marche also stocks high quality goods from pasta to pepperoni to baguettes to Earnest Ice Cream.

Rain Or Shine Ice Cream - speaking of ice cream, this is a good one. Sure to please with a large rotating roster, the selection will satisfy any flavour craver.

Six Acres - often overlooked for the larger beer establishments in the area, Six Acres is the definition of upscale Brit pub cozy. With a continuously impressive beer list and very yummy wine list, this is a quaint way to cap the evening. Also, those cauliflower sliders….yum.

Movement portion of the outing:

A walk on a beach - what’s a good time out without a long walk on a beach? If you want to people watch, go down to the West End and English Bay or to David Lam park in Yaletown. If you feel like getting away from the crowds, try going for sunset at amply named Sunset Beach in Burnaby or one of West Vancouver’s parks or seawall.

VanVic’s top in Vic:

Nourish - start the day off with a healthy brunch (only the best ingredients here) in a beautifully restored, James Bay Victorian home that exudes nouveau PNW style. They even have a GALentines day brunch for a good time girl’s hang on Feb 13, alongside the usual Valentine’s dinner for the traditionalists. Can’t get into their downtown location? Try for their sister restaurant (equally adorable and nestled amongst a large garden) in Saanich: Charlotte and the Quail.

Brasserie L'Ecole - they say the French invented romance, so what better way to celebrate Valentine’s than a perfectly done steak and pommes frites? Wash dinner down with one of their fabulous french wines and you have a terrific night out in one of Victoria’s most esteemed restaurants.

Cafe Bliss - If you’re feeling like loving your fellow animals in a different way than grilled steak, try this classy vegetarian resto in Fort Commons. A far cry from the bell-bottom-clad veggie restaurants of the past, this place is vegetarian done with sophistication (long live the free spirits who started the veggie movement back in the day).

Agrius - written up as one of Canada’s top new restaurants (2016) in En Route magazine, this place needs to be tried, so mid February is a great excuse. Perfectly plated meals, hand crafted cocktails of excellent calibre, and a lively, roomy, modern feel to the dining lounge. Don’t pass up a chance to taste their house - made charcuterie board. Their 5 course kitchen tasting menu is also a fun adventure for the tastebuds.

Vis a Vis - located in adorable Oak Bay Village, here is another French standard in Victoria. Loved for their tasty brunches, they also do a mean moules et frites, and their Parisian interior is super fun.

Stage Wine Bar - Tucked in amongst the Fernwood lights inside turn of the century architecture, this place is adorable and super romantic. Share plates and an extensive wine list also help set the mood.

Crust Bakery - plan ahead for this dessert mecca because their delectables go quickly and for a reason. Try the “passion” fruit curd tart (see what we did there? wink).

The Drake - Feel like a casual drink after dinner? Then hop over to one of Victoria’s TV-less establishments and beer havens (nothing kills romance more than infomercials spouting at you so we always look for TV-less joints). Always fresh beer and always local (and sometimes from Portland, well, because Portland!), they also have tasty edibles if you have room left to try.

Calorie burning portion of the outing:

VicFolk, this store needs no introduction, but if you have managed to avoid discovering this local gem, may we introduce Picot Collective: a perfectly curated lifestyle and home design store with heart. We sat down with Britt Buntain, owner and local artist, to get to know her passions and love of her city.

What describes you?

Determined, compassionate, connector, resilient.

What is the basis of your business?

Our shop is intended to evoke meaning, function and beauty in your life. We strive to bring in goods made in small batches by independent creative businesses, with 80% being BC business. On the blog we are enthusiastic about sharing the stories behind the makers to give meaning to the products. We host workshops with the intention of bringing people together to learn, create and connect.

Who is your community/friend circle?

There are several. I have a few immediate, very close friends who are my wolf pack. And then because I have been teaching yoga for 5 years, I have a larger community of friends that I have met from the studio. Just walking into the studio and seeing all the familiar faces is so nourishing.  Living and working in Fernwood, I am intricately tied to the neighbourhood there and fellow business owners; that is the community that enables me to build my business.

Which neighbourhood do you live in?

Fernwood! I actually live in the building beside my store...

What do you like about your specific hood?

It’s central to the city - 5 minutes from everything else. The architecture and the vibe is so unique. We are also one of the only neighbourhoods that, through our own efforts, have created a non-profit organization (The Fernwood Neighbourhood Resource Group - NRG) that focuses on building urban gardens, compost education, feeding and creating affordable housing for low income families, and so much more. There’s a proud sense of belonging and unity that you feel in this neighbourhood.

Name three favourite local neighbourhood haunts you frequent.

Stage Wine Bar, Fernwood Inn pub and Cornerstone Cafe.

What are three things you absolutely adore about your city?

The people. There is an incredible about of support that exists here that I have found to be so palpably different than bigger cities.  People are excited to help support each other’s endeavors.

You are never more than 5 minutes away from the ocean and in 10, I can go get lost in the woods on Mt. Doug.

In just 4 hours, I can get as far as Portland, Seattle, Vancouver, Hornby Island, Tofino, and so many other incredible places to visit. There’s no excuse not to adventure.

What are three things that drive you crazy about your city?

It’s always under construction.

There is NO SHAWARMA *

* EDIT by VanVic - Victoria has a brand new Shawarma place! Yalla. Holla!

What are your favourite places to go/experience things in the greater, surrounding area?

Any beaches along Dallas Road, Mount Doug, all the Fantastico Coffee shops, La Taqueria, Moksha Yoga.

Describe what "home" means to you.

Feeling a part of a place; that I contribute to a community and that my environment reflects what is important to me. Its a sense of belonging and connection. I get that feeling as soon as I step off the airplane here, or walk into my yoga studio, or along Dallas Road, or go just about anywhere and run into a few familiar faces.

If you moved here from somewhere else, When was the first time Victoria felt like home? If you have always lived here, what was a proud moment for you, living in Vic? Do you plan to stay in Vic for a long time?

I moved here 9 years ago from Calgary and it started to feel like home after 3 years. There are so many moments I can recall in pure awe and appreciation that I get to live here, and most of them revolve around being by the ocean. I think the most proud I have been is celebrating a year in business with the Night Markets we put on this summer…that’s a feeling I can’t begin to describe. To be honest, I’m not sure how long I’ll stay here. I’d love to spend a few years living in Europe at some point…but I think Victoria will always be where I come back to.

What are some lessons you learned being an entrepreneur in this town?

Everything is an experiment. Have open lines of communication with everyone you do business with. It doesn’t serve anyone to pretend it’s easy and “good” all the time, so be mindful and honest when people ask how things are going. Connect, share, and learn from other people in the business that you look up to. A fluctuation of peaks and valleys is normal. Learn to accept that things will be predictably unpredictable. Consistent self care is integral to the running of a business, even though there’s that rumour around that you must never stop grinding. Pay attention to what works and keep doing more of that. Be okay with letting go of something that isn’t actually working. Come back to the experiment perspective.

How do you feel supported as a business owner / creator in this town?

At the time I was preparing to open my store, my retina detached and I went blind in my right eye. I needed several surgeries and a lot of recovery time. I wasn’t sure if I could open the store as I had planned because of how much care I needed to give myself. When I finally did open, the people who came out to support the opening was incredible. It’s still something that gets me emotional when I think about it.  

When I organized the Night Markets in Fernwood in August to celebrate a year of being in business, I was BLOWN AWAY by the number of people who came down each week to support what my team and I had created. It was such an overwhelming sense of love and support that I had to take myself aside a few times just to feel how full my heart was and to remind myself to remember that feeling. There will be times again when I question what I am doing and I always want to come back to that feeling on those nights. That feeling where I could see the outcome of my efforts and that there is a real thirst for what I can create in this neighbourhood.

How often do you "hone your craft"? What are the hours or efforts put in with your business?

I work Tuesday to Saturday for the store, and I also teach 4 yoga classes a week; some in the evenings, some during the day. Somewhere in there I make time to weave and make wall hangings…that is so calming for me. Life is pretty full right now, so I put work away at 6 pm, some days a little earlier, so that I can practice yoga, make time to cook a good meal, drink wine with friends or simply just relax. I value my personal time as a recharge for what I have to give to my business. I’m not the kind of owner who never stops working. That’s just not productive or efficient for me.

What's next for you in your business? What are you excited to expand into?

The night markets were a pilot project that turned out to be such a success we have decided to run them everything Thursday in July & August of 2017. I also worked with the Belfry Theatre to gather a grant from the city to string Edison-style lights between the their building and ours; increasing our sense of place in Fernwood Square and hopefully making it more desirable for community events. I think I’m most excited to watch the Fernwood neighbourhood around me continue to develop and I am so proud to be a cornerstone business in that process.

This is a blog about Victoria and Vancouver. Do you notice any areas of overlap between the two cities? What about differences?

The overlap that I see in the makers industry is that it’s booming and thriving. People are really working hard and together to create economic opportunities for themselves and it seems that there is a huge desire for that independent market. The differences I think come with geographical separation. We don’t really have that in Victoria. We are all 5 minutes away from each other, so you have to be careful that you are respecting the business relationships you make with other people.

What do you like to do when you visit Vancouver?

Baghdad Cafe for Shawarma. Front and Company on Main St is my favourite stop for second hand clothing. Walking…I love to just walk around Vancouver and find places to eat and drink. Sit on Third beach for sunsets. Go to shows or concerts and find great bars to have a drink. Visit my favourite shops...

What do you show people in Victoria when they visit from other places?

I take people to eat at all my favourite places, the museum, and the beaches.

What do you hope for the next generation of people in your city?

I hope they take everything that has been laid before them and continue to build it in a way that feeds their passion and serves other people.

Lastly, is there anything about Vic that makes you go "aww, my home!"

Moments like that happen everyday! Currently, I am sitting at Dockside Green Fantastico Coffee and the sun is shining over the water. It’s a chilly winter morning and people are still sitting outside on the patio. I’m just so grateful to call this place home.

This month we get super visual with Vanfolk Jen Morgan. The face behind animation-based company Leaves Turn , Jen is turning heads with her captivating videos for local bands and other special events.

1) Short and Sweet:

What describes you? 

Jack (Jill?) of all trades

What is the basis of your business?

Pixel-pushing

Who is your community/friend circle?

Diverse

Which neighbourhood do you live in?

Fraserhood

What do you like about your specific hood?

Walkability

Name three favourite local neighbourhood haunts you frequent.

The Lido, The Whip, Matchstick

What are three things you absolutely adore about your city?

Natural beauty , Bike lanes, Foooooood

What are three things that drive you crazy about your city?

Unaffordabilty, Impermanence, Soullessness

What are your favourite places to go/experience things in the greater, surrounding area? 

Anywhere along the Sea to Sky and North Vancouver for outdoorsy things

Describe what "home" means to you

Ocean, Greenery, Rain

2) Back to full sentences:

When was the first time Vancouver felt like home? What was a proud moment for you, living in Van?

With some determination and a good dose of lucky timing, I was able to buy a small home of my own. I feel like this is a rare feat in this town, especially for creatives.

Do you plan to stay in Van for a long time?

I just got back from visiting a friend who was frustrated with Vancouver and fled to Paris. Just before I left, some close friends had moved away for similar reasons. I've always lived here, and even though I have my little home in Van, it's hard to imagine that I won't escape on some grand adventure at some point. I think that the west coast will always feel like home, though.

What are some lessons you learned being an artist in this town?

Be connected and tenacious. This place is very rich with talent. Surround yourself with a variety of people that inspire you and you can do no wrong.

How do you feel supported as a business woman / creator in this town?

The friends and contacts I've made over the years through friends, Emily Carr and the games industry represents a wide network of folks from all sorts of disciplines. With any given project, I can usually think of someone who can help me figure things out or recommend a friend to lend a hand.

How often do you "hone your craft"? What are the hours or efforts put in with your art?

If I had to sum up my craft, I'd describe it as multidisciplinarism (which spell-check informs me is not a word, but whatever, I like it). My day job in the video game industry is demanding, and requires constant growth in technical knowledge, collaboration, problem solving and creativity. So whenever I set out to complete a personal project that involves new skills, I feel confident I can deal with whatever challenges I may face. That being said, when I take on a personal project, it consumes my evening hours and displaces the time I'd usually be recharging or connecting with friends and loved ones. So I'm careful not to take on projects that have really tight deadlines.

You've recently worked on a project with one of the VanfolkVicfolk writers. Can you describe the project and your vision with it?

A couple years back I met Mel beside the stage where she had just performed with a friend of my boyfriend. We corresponded over email about collaborating with her band Familiar Wild and settled on the song "War". We had a super fruitful lunch meeting, aligning inspiration and also determining what was logistically possible with our resources.

When I hear a song that resonates with me, a clear course of imagery reveals itself almost instantly. So in this case I cut a rough animatic that reflected the fractious relationship described in the lyrics as well as the languorous mood of the song. We set a date, pulled together a small team of super talented folks and shot for 12-ish largely improvised hours. Then I set out to edit and composite in the evenings after work when I had the time and energy. Given our budget was basically a box of pizza and some beers, I'm pretty proud of what we produced.

(you can see the video here)

You also worked with past feature Vanfolk artist T.Nile on a music video for her.  What inspired the animation style you chose for her video? 

In the summer of 2014 I started getting the itch to take on another project. I had this idea to create a music video using abstract digital animations with 3D software. I had been to a T Nile show with my boyfriend some time ago and felt her music would be a good fit for what I envisioned for the video. I showed her a couple of animation tests that I came to call digital mandalas, and she was on board! We shot her performance in front of a green screen in the videographer's living room. It proved challenging to animate the kaleidoscopic mandalas to match the pulsing, rising and falling energy of the song, and also to match the organic filmed performance to the digital backdrop. My After Effects file became a byzantine mess that I'm unsure I could navigate if I were to open it today. It evolved somewhat from what I initially envisioned, but I'm pretty happy with it.

(you can see the video here)

What's next for you in your creation? What are you excited to expand into? Do you have any other collaborations lined up? 

I'm the lead environment artist at a video game studio called Phoenix Labs (www.phxlabs.ca) and I'm taking a hiatus from side projects for a bit so that I can focus on shipping our upcoming game. When that cools down though I would absolutely love to direct another music video! The Familiar Wild War video got me very excited about dance. I have access to a motion capture studio and a bunch of cool ideas percolating, but any big side projects will have to remain on ice for a bit. In the meantime,

www.leavesturn.com/verytardy

is a blog where I periodically share little projects and things that inspire me.

This is a blog about Victoria and Vancouver. Do you notice any areas of overlap between the two cities? What about differences?

I don't spend nearly enough time in Victoria, but every time I go there seems to be more cool things to do. I think it's sort of like Vancouver in that way. I can't even keep track of all the brewpubs and coffee shops and boutiques that seem to be popping up like mushrooms.

What do you like to do when you visit Victoria, if you go?

Pretty much the same thing I like to do in every city: eat, drink, wander and if I'm lucky, check out some live music.

What do you show people in Van when they visit from other places?

All I ever want to tell visitors to do is get their butts on a bike and explore. Biking is my favourite way to see any new city. It just so happens that we have amazing bike routes that are easy to navigate and can take you to some beautiful places.

What do you hope for the next generation of people in your city?

That they can actually stay here. I saw a lot of my peers from Emily Carr take off for places like Montreal and elsewhere because it just wasn't working, both financially and culturally. Obviously as a city we stand to lose a lot if creatives and young people can't make it work here.

Lastly, is there anything about Van that makes you go "aww, my home!"

VanFolk, meet an amazing visual artist, Sandeep Johal, from Mount Pleasant, #eastvan (represent). A truly Renaissance woman and successful DIY (read: self-made) career artist (oh yah, and busy mama to a mini artist in training). She is active in the local female artist development scene and does mandalas and other mediums of visual magic.

Meet the many sides of Sandeep:

Using one or two word answers:

What describes you? Grateful / Compassionate / Open

What is the basis of your art creation? Geometric Abstraction with a South Asian flair

Who is your community? All of the people I love and am inspired by

What describes your business? ART made with 100% love

Which neighbourhood do you live in? Mount Pleasant

Describe your specific neighbourhood. Heritage houses and low rise apartment buildings, tons of parks, coffee shops and places to eat, craft breweries, small businesses, artist studios

What do you like about your specific hood? The best thing about my hood are all of the murals recently created by mostly local artists for Vancouver Mural Fest. Not only do they showcase the incredible amount of talent this city has, but they have also re-energized Mount Pleasant. My every day experience of walking down Main street has become so much more fulfilling and I feel a renewed sense of pride in my neighbourhood.

Name three favorite local neighbourhood haunts you frequent. My haunts have changed since having a child. Ha ha! JJ Bean (coffee) Welks General Store (household stuff) Organic Acres (grocery store)

Name three fav Vancouver and surrounding area places you visit. To be honest, I don’t get out of my hood as much since having my son, but that being said, we do go to Granville Island a lot more.

Back to full sentences:

If you moved here from somewhere else, when was the first time Van felt like home? If you have always lived here, what was a proud moment for you, living in Van? Do you plan to stay in Van for a long time? I moved to Vancouver in Nov 2000. It first felt like home when I met my best friend 5 months later. But he moved away 5 years ago, and since then most of my close friends have left the city as well. Now that we have a son, we’re also contemplating our next move.

What are some lessons you learned being an entrepreneur/artist in this town? What’s next for you in your business? I’m fairly new to the Vancouver art scene, but I’ve quickly learned how important and absolutely essential it is to have a community. So many doors have opened for me since becoming a part of Thrive Art Studio, which is a community space run by females artists for female artists. It’s dedicated to helping female artists expand their knowledge, practice, and careers in the spirit of collaboration not competition.

What’s next? I’m starting a series based off of the collaborative piece I recently did for Nuit Blanche at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. It’ll be snapshots of my parents’ experiences as immigrants when they first arrived in Canada. I’m also in the midst of a project called ‘Hard Kaur - not your starlet, not your victim’. You can read more about it on my website.

Also, Sept 30 I’m in a group show at Thrive Art Studio for ROVE YVR - a Mount Pleasant Art Walk. Oct 1, I’ll have a collaborative piece up at the Winnipeg Art Gallery for Nuit Blanche as part of the MapleWish Explore 150 Exhibit. Oct 22, Nov 12, Nov 22 I’ll be teaching mandala drawing and painting workshops at the Anvil Centre in New Westminster.

Related to the last question, how often do you “hone your craft”? What are the hours or efforts put in with your business? All day, er-ryday. Since having a son, I’m at home A LOT so I’ve become more productive with my time. I work on my art during the day while he naps and in the evenings after he goes to bed. I’m much more focused and disciplined now. I’ve also become more selective with my social commitments. When I go out, it’s usually art related - seeing a show, doing a workshop, attending a talk, meeting up with other artists, etc.- since my time and energy are limited.

You’re a new mom. How did your art change, if at all, after having your son? Everything changed. When I had my son, I began re-evaluating my life. With daycare costing insane dollar bills and my day job getting cut from full-time to part-time, my husband and I made the decision for me to stay at home with our son and pursue my art full-time. Now that I’m finally doing it full-time, I’m a much happier person, and a much better mother. But this wouldn’t have happened, or as soon as it did, had I not had my son (or without the support of my husband). The direction of my work has changed too. I’m now more interested in narratives and creating art that tells a story.

Is this town missing anything art-wise? If you could add anything to this town creatively, what would it be? South Asian artists! I can’t find them anywhere here. Toronto has such a large presence of South asian contemporary artists, but there’s a real absence in Vancouver.

What are three things you absolutely adore about Van? Baby friendly. Pedestrian lifestyle. The neighbourhoods.

What are three things that drive you crazy about your city? Apathy Entitlement Political short-sightedness

What is the craziest thing that has happened to you in your city? I’m pretty sure I was solicited by a cult back in the late 90s, but I’ll leave it at that ;)

What do you hope for the next generation of people in your city? I hope they can afford to live here, but to do so, I hope they become more politically engaged and stand up for themselves.

Lastly, is there anything about Van that makes you go “aww, my home!” My neighbourhood. I really do love Mount Pleasant.

Welcome to Sooke, BC. 

From the very first time we journeyed here, we knew this place was special. From the endless, untouched nature to the liberal locals (who call themselves ‘Vosinos’ based on their postal code) and well-curated crafts for sale (check out Wicked Wanda pottery as an example), this place is a Salt Spring Island with less tourists. So with one last long weekend to your summer, we suggest you go here, and don’t forget to reserve at our favourite restaurant in the area, Wild Mountain Dinners. Truly local, foraged, slow food with a killer, local wine/cider/beer/cocktail list to sip while you peruse the always changing, always fresh menu items. We spoke with one of the owners, Brooke (who’s husband, Oliver, is the other half of Wild Mountain). She gave us some ideas on what to do in her lovely part of the world:

What describes you?

Grateful, inquisitive and thirsty.

What is the basis of your business?

A restaurant as a catalyst for a local food economy.

Who is your community/friend circle?

Slow Food and the Chef’s Alliance

Name some favourite Victoria haunts you frequent.

Relish, Uchida, Olo, Clive’s

Where do you hit up when you go to Vancouver?

Farmer’s Apprentice/Grapes & Soda, Royal Dinette, LaTab

What are your favourite places to go/experience things in your greater area? 

Pilgrimme on Galiano Island. Eating Jesse’s food among the trees is magical.

For a Van Isle day trip, start at DeVine Vineyard & Spirits in Saanich and a visit to Sea Cider, then hop the Brentwood Bay to Mill Bay ferry and stop at Emandare Vineyard in the Cowichan Valley with lunch at Unsworth Vineyard & Restaurant. Hit up a couple farm stands along the way like Terra Nossa in Mill Bay.

Describe what ‘home’ means to you.

Home is where the heart is, and my heart is with Oliver: living, loving and creating together for over 10 years.

What are three things you love about the island?

Love the island pace -  what people call island time or an island vibe.

Love that you interact with nature every day, even if you live in a city.

Love the abundance of wild and cultivated food, wine, beer, spirits & coffee!

Three things you dislike?

Don’t like having to take BC Ferries (scandalously mismanaged).

Don’t like the more than 130 toxic salmon farms that currently surround Vancouver Island.

Don’t like the loss of abattoirs - we are seriously in danger of losing our ability to process local meat.

What are some lessons you learned being an entrepreneur/artist in your town?

The community wants you to win and they want you to last. They understand you need to be closed to take time for yourself. They like that and support that. It’s that Island vibe I mentioned before. So, finding the work/life balance to create and sustain both.

How do you feel supported as a business owner / creator in your town?

Sooke is very supportive of small businesses. If you do something genuine, people respond in kind. I get an incredible amount of professional services from friends in beautiful homes: aesthetics, massage, reiki, dog dental hygiene (I have a Beagle named Quincy Bones) and even most of my beauty products are made in Sooke. The secret farm stands of Sooke are also quite abundant and exceptional.

What are the hours or efforts put in with your business?

6 days a week but I also make time to volunteer.

What’s next for you in your business? What are you excited to expand into?

We plan to expand the gardens to grow more food on site. It’s really nice to have a restaurant garden that requires you to get outside and tend to it. Even though gardening is endlessly frustrating, it’s good to be reminded of how hard it is to grow food. The chefs each have their own garden bed as well.

The Next Slow Food Vancouver Island event is a family picnic with Olo & Wild Mountain: Sunday September 25th at Ragley Farm in East Sooke. Details at: www.slowisland.ca

What do you hope for the next generation of people living in your area?

More quality jobs. Less oil tankers.

Lastly, is there anything about the island that makes you go “aww, my home!"

Orcas.

---

 In order, photos of: 1) Arbutus tree at the small peak, Mt Doug 2) Bowen Island lookout, Cypress 3) Sea Cider tasting room 4) 33 Acres tasting room 5) Kimchi meatballs and egg at Relish 6) Tortilla soup with egg at Bandidas 7) Bows and Arrows coffee served in an Amanda Marie Ceramics mug

Twinsies: A Tale of Two Cities - Take 2:

 Well, here it is. In time to enjoy two more full months of summer in two beautiful PNW cities. We hope you enjoy sampling these places as much as we did!

Let’s start with imbibing...

Cider - many say it's the new beer, but who cares really when it's hot outside and the drink's cool? Check out these places that are doing amazing things with local apples:

Sea Cider (YYJ): Located along the bike trail between Sidney and Victoria (hint: they give you extra tasters if you're on a bike), Sea Cider has a stellar view and even more stellar ciders. Try the Birds and the Bees (they just sold out but still have some tasters and apparently there's still bottles floating around on the island) or for something more Prosecco-style, try the Kings and Spies. The oh-so-yummy Rumrunner is aged in rum-soaked bourbon barrels and is one of our faves.

33 Acres (YVR): The. Best. Cider. In. Vancouver. They were filling our growlers for a while but so many people came in for this treat that they went back to just having cider tastings in-house. Still a great excuse to visit their sun-drenched location and maybe grab an order of perogies or other house special.

Coffee Shops - 

Bows and Arrows (YYJ and YVR): Soon to be opening their Vancouver location with the original Victoria location remaining a truly open-concept, Industrial hangout, Bows and Arrows roasts our favourite local beans. They put out both the standard, go-to espresso but also experiment with new flavours and roasts like we haven't tasted locally before. A must try. Check out their new location coming soon to the Fraser and 25th area. Their YVR location is working with YYJ local Amanda Marie Ceramics to offer you coffee in cosy cups, much like at YYJ’s Hey Happy. 

Matchstick (YVR): Starting out at Fraser and Kingsway and expanding to three locations across Vancouver, Matchstick is still serving its high-quality beans to happy customers alongside delectable treats (try their fluffy croissants) in well-designed spaces with analogue music playlists. 

The New General Store - so many of these chic-yet-practical stores have been opening across our cities, so here’s a few to check out:

Lore General, Hold General, Picot Collective, Pigeonhole Home Store (YYJ): The quality of these stores opening in Vic is so high, we had to have a four-way tie, starting with the most recent to open. Lore General (on Government St) and Hold General (in Vic West, a great community that's blossoming now) both have local, artisan, and beautiful trinkets and treats for the home and the soul. Picot Collective is run by a lovely gal who only supports local and sustainable. Her items are all a must (from beach wear to out-on-the-town wear, with iPhone cases, candles and pottery thrown in between, it's all lovely). Pigeonhole Home Store has amazing home decorations and now does pop-ups in-store of local artisans (they had Korinne Vader's garments in this past week). Much and Little (YVR): A Main Street staple. Relatively recently expanding to two storefronts (one side for one-of-a-kind clothes you won't easily find in other Vancouver stores), Much and Little is a must for home decor, hand bags, candles, and oh so much more. Always curated eloquently, there's nothing little about their merchandise selection. 

 Honorable mentions: Drake General Store (a bunch of cool stuff crammed into one space) and Welks (seriously, have you been here? The best "dollar" store we have ever shopped at. Natural products, updated trends, good food and cocktail fixings, all without breaking the piggy).

Brunch - can’t have a blog without mentioning it:

Relish (YYJ): their house-made smoked meat, kimchi and pickled cabbage added to perfectly done egg dishes delights every time. Served up with Bows and Arrows coffee, you’ll never be disappointed eating here. You’ll also go back again and again for those meatballs with rice cake. Ah. Mazing.

Bandidas (YVR): Probably overlooked because they’re thought of as a late night joint, but their brunch is equally delectable and very well priced. Try the tortilla soup with poached egg. You won’t regret it.

The Za:

Prima Strada (YYJ): With three equally happening locations serving Victoria, this joint has cornered the YYJ market in Neapolitan Pizza. Try the Bridge St location for an extra industrially-decorated experience.

Nook, Campagnolo, Nicli Antica, Via Tevere (YVR): Another four-way tie. Nook and Via Tevere are favourites for their West End/East Van local joint ambiance (where the local people truly support their local stores). Campagnolo and Nicli are favs for their amazing ingredients (and Nicli’s even more amazing, homemade chili and oregano oils).

Onto nature...’nuff said:

 Easy trails that go special places exist everywhere, but it's rare we hear about them, so here’s our local favs:

Mount Doug (YYJ): Take 20 minutes to hike up Mount Doug from the Blenkinsop Rd side and you'll be rewarded with interesting forests (think sprawling Arbutus and Garry Oak trees) and far-reaching views (across Victoria to the Olympic Range and Mount Baker and Rainier if skies are clear).

Bowen Island Lookout (YVR): A mere 20 minutes from the parking lot at Cypress, you get a viewpoint better than most longer hikes on the North Shore. If you like Clark's Nutcrackers (a very curious bird), those are also plentiful here, but watch your head...no, seriously!

Onto beaches...bring your sunscreen to these magical places and you'll not regret it:

China Beach (YYJ): Remember Tofino? This is Tofino mach 2. China Beach offers the same access to expansive sand, open ocean, and some small surf within 1.5 hrs of Victoria. We could have named some other beaches, but those are yours to discover (it keeps the excitement...and secrets...going).

Wreck Beach (YVR): Really, could we have named anywhere else? Sure Third Beach is equally great in views, but where else in Vancouver's inner city can you find a beach with only ocean view, warm waters and friendly community? (Again, we could have mentioned our favs in West Van, but then we'd have to kill you). Quick Getaways - there are so many options to choose from (and have we mentioned we really aren't good at narrowing down options?), but here are three of the many places to go:

Galiano Island (YYJ and YVR): Equally accessible from Van and Vic, this island is trending as a destination for weekend warriors, especially since the opening of foodie restaurant Pilgrimme (yum).

Port Renfrew (YYJ): We weren't going to add this, but let's admit it, the secret is out. Port Renfrew has some of the most accessible, old growth forest in the PNW and the best part is you don't have to share it with thousands of other people (ahem...Cathedral grove). There are also some great lakes in the area but we will definitely keep our lips sealed on the specifics.

Maple Ridge (YVR): It feels weird to write about our old high school stomping grounds in a ‘discover PNW’ blog, but ‘The Ridge’ has become quite the draw in recent years for people who want to experience nature without experiencing long drives. Who can blame them? Golden Ears Park alone gives instant access to a glacier lake, a cliff-jump-worthy creek, and days of hiking in thick forests with views to boot. 

Best picnic stocking venues - if you're going to the beach, you have to stock up, right? Try these places for your outdoor feast frenzy: Charelli's Cheese Shop (YYJ): Tucked away on Foul Bay Rd, Charelli's is the best place for anything cheese or even cocktail related. If you have a catered affair to tend to, this is basically your one-stop shop. 

The Whole Beast (YYJ): Oh. My. Gawd. Good meat! Cured locally and from local, happy animals, this place stocks all your party tray (and duck liver pate!) needs. 

Salt and Pepper Fox (YYJ): Feeling too tired to get things together yourself? Call up the Salt and Pepper Fox: a small but big hearted catering company that preps the best party trays we have ever (!) tasted. Super fresh. Super local. Super delish. Watch out for their bi-monthly Pop Up Atlas dinner series where they take over kitchens of different restaurants around town for a full course meal you'll be instagraming about ‘til the next event. Pasture to Plate (YVR): So you want that big steak for the Bar-B? Go no further than Pasture to Plate on the Drive. Guaranteed to make vegetarians salivate just a little, these butchers source meat from their own BC farm of happy, free range, drug-free animals. Very knowledgeable and helpful, you'll find the meat of your dreams here and feel better about truly supporting local and sustainable

Benton brothers (YVR): with multiple locations to serve your cheese cravings, this store is top for great selection at good prices. They also give free samples and really know what to suggest based on how your taste buds are feeling. 

Chef Claire’s (YVR):  For equally delightful catering plates (or to just grab a Sammy and side for the beach), don't miss Chef Claire's on Main St (beside the Flower Factory). Small and easy to overlook if you aren’t scouting for it, but really worth checking out. 

Special Places, take two - You know, those places that matter so much that if everywhere else suddenly exploded you might not notice, as long as these places didn't disappear. Here are two more venues to consider supporting in our ongoing #supportlocal campaign:

Part and Parcel (YYJ): If this place closed, we would have to cry ourselves to sleep at night reminiscing about their moroccan fries and harissa mayo. This is the freshest food we have tasted in a long time. The best part? All of the menu items are completely affordable, going for under $15 per item (and each item is large). Try the beet and quinoa salad. Just trust us. But don't touch the fries. Those are ours.

Don't Argue (YVR): Yup, more pizza, but this pizza is special. It comes with local beer on tap, a super cool playlist pumped out loudly (the way it should be), and pizza combos like kale and mashed potato with garlic and cream sauce. We mean...yum! The best sauce, the best environment, the best ingredients and all for a good price. Double yum. We love you, Don't Argue, and your little pizzas too.  As usual, this list seems to get larger every time we sit down to write it. Look out for a third Twinsies entry in time for Fall 2016. In the meantime, here are some links to great summer festivities in both cities (this is by no means an exhaustive list but we got exhausted making it, so...):

(Space photo by Berkley Vopnfjord. Portraits by Sara Hembree/The Grit of It)

 VicFolk meet Moonrise Creative, a local meeting space that designs and produces workshops, gatherings and events that evoke creativity and forge community. Perhaps it's the Harry Potter-esque address of 17&1/2 Fan Tan Alley they use (thanks to Leslie Shewring) alongside their heritage Fernwood address, or maybe it's the endless energy the owners put into their community. Either way, it's a magical space to visit.

 From workshops in photography to calligraphy, knitting, weaving, ceramics, social media for creatives and even sandal making, this open space has something for everyone. But the team behind Moonrise didn't stop here. They have offered getaway workshops (e.g. Joshua Tree, California), thrown two sold-out Eat Together longtable events and just finished a successful May Moonrise Market showcasing the depth of entrepreneurial talent YYJ holds. Moonrise is quickly becoming a hub for Victoria's creatives, making the name that much more meaningful.

 Here are some thoughts from Pamela Lewis, one of the gals behind the Moonrise community:

Short and Sweet:

What describes you?

 Passionate and inquisitive.

What is the basis of your art creation?

 Desire to connect deeply with self.

Who is your community?

 Between both of my jobs (I work at Island Community Mental Health as Director Of Community Program Development and a nurse besides Moonrise), my kids and having spent my high school years in Victoria, it is very broad.

What describes your business?

 Moonrise hosts workshops, retreats, markets and events in Victoria and other beautiful places.

Which neighbourhood do you live in?

 Fernwood.

Describe your specific neighbourhood.

 Fernwood lies between downtown and Oak Bay. It has big trees, heritage homes and all the telephone poles are painted in beautiful, bright colours.

What do you like about your specific hood?

 Fernwood Village! It feels like a little slice of Europe in Victoria.

Name three favourite local neighbourhood haunts you frequent.

 Stage Wine Bar, Hide and Seek Cafe and Thorn and Thistle Flowers...and Munro's books.

What are three things you absolutely adore about your city?

 The proximity to nature, the great little shops, and the fact my elderly parents are 5 mins away from me (for 20 years I didn't live here).

What are three things that drive you crazy about your city?

 Things do move slowly, which is both good and bad. I would have said parking downtown but I have noticed things are improving it that area. People don't get off "the rock" enough.

What are your favourite places to go/experience things in the greater, surrounding area?

 Definitely going to Jordon River, getting in the ocean to play in the surf and then grabbing a coffee at the Cold Shoulder Cafe and topping it off with a night at Point No Point.

 Also, going to the Elk Lake nursery or Clare Day Farm to pick up plants for my garden then popping by Mosi's Cafe or Charlotte and the Quail.

Describe what "home" means to you.

 Home is being settled into my body, relaxed at my house with all my “chachkies” around me with my honey and kids.

Paragraph form:

If you moved here from somewhere else, when was the first time Victoria felt like home? If you have always lived here, what was a proud moment for you, living in Vic? 

 I moved away from Victoria when I was 17 – I lived back in Ontario, down in the States and in Vancouver. I returned 5 years ago. I think the first time Victoria felt like home again was just a few weeks after I moved back. I was walking along Dallas Road with my kids feeling a bit uncertain about the move and recent separation from my now ex-husband. I heard a group of people coming up behind me with the click of walking poles. I turned around and it was my mom's walking group (most of them are in their 60/70s) that has met every Saturday for 30 years for a walk and brunch. Most of them have known me since I was 9 years old. They all squealed and hugged me and the boys, invited us for tea and then off they went. I looked at the ocean and I thought "Yup, I am home".

What are some lessons you learned being an entrepreneur/artist in this town?

 Well of course there is a lot of history here and it is important to respect that.

How do you feel supported as a business owner / creator in this town?

 Having chats with people. When I throw out an interesting idea for a workshop, mural, or fundraiser, lots of people and businesses jump on board.

How often do you "hone your craft"? What are the hours or efforts put in with your business?

 Well, Moonrise has taken up huge amounts of time in the last year. It has had its successes and failures. My priority is to balance my own creative pursuits with creating a space for others to discover and hone their own creativity. Throw 4 kids in that mix; when I create time to hone my craft, it is an absolute triumph :)

What's next for you in your business? What are you excited to expand into?

 Moonrise has grown very quickly in one year. I would love to do another crafting workshop in the States or Mexico and have been working on that. Kate Campbell, the calligrapher, has some great workshops coming up. We will host another market and possibly events that are more open to not only ladies but also men. I'll am sticking to my roots of doing Sparkfly/Meet the Makers events which are evenings when people get up and talk on a theme.  The next one will be on the Theme 'Whole Foods, Whole Life' with Toni Desrosiers of Abeego, Julie Cove of Alkaline Sisters and Me-Kon of Flourish Urban Farm - it is on July 12th.

This is a blog about Victoria and Vancouver. Do you notice any areas of overlap or differences between the two cities?

 Each neighbourhood in Vancouver and Victoria have distinct vibes. People in each city love to take pride in their “hood”. Obviously, Victoria is much smaller but the energy and passion is still there.

What do you like to do when you visit Vancouver?

 I lived there for quite a few years so I reconnect with friends. I love the VAG so I indulge in a little of that. I am usually staying at a friend's place off Commercial Drive so I go to all my favourite haunts on the drive. I am still mourning the loss of Little Nest. (VanfolkVicfolk: we are too!)

What do you show people in Victoria when they visit from other places?

 I walk them out to Ogden Point Breakwater and then drive along Dallas Road and Beach Drive. The views are outstanding.

What do you hope for the next generation of people in your city?

 I hope they redefine the moniker “the city of the newly wed and nearly dead”. I hope they take care of the ocean surrounding Victoria and continue to be creative and entrepreneurial.

Lastly, is there anything about Vic that makes you go "aww, my home!"

 The Beacon Drive-In

----

 Keep a look out for more Moonrise workshops at www.moonrisecreative.ca (namely, the Calligraphy workshop from 1-4pm on June 18 and the Meet the Makers talk from 6-9pm on July 12). Both events held at 17 1/2 Fan Tan alley. 

 Also, feel free to gawk at their equally divine, heritage Fernwood space on the modern homes blog.

------

Van AND Vic Folk meet Jolanta Va, owner of Jola V Designs , a European-influenced, handmade leather accessories company currently based in Gastown but soon moving to Vancouver Island. This seems to be a bit of a trend so we took some extra time asking questions. Here’s the story behind the designer and how she compares Van to Vic:

Give us a quick background on what makes You:

J: Mix of glam and farm; good wine / bad hair; ideas / art / perseverance.

Who is your community?

J: Artists, academics, former hippies, wine-buffs

Give a quick description of your current home (Gastown):

J: Urban palpitation with a taste of rooftop BBQ smoke and jazz

What is the basis to your business / art ?

J: Handmade, experimental leather bags and accessories. Locally sourced. Created / made by me. Long straps. Everything I couldn’t find here.

What are your top local haunts within Gastown?

J: Crab Park, Atex Fabric store (I sew!), Viti Wines (for Island wines), Jules, and Sunrise Market (amazing discount grocery, a true DTES veteran).

What are your favourite places to go in greater Van? 

J: A lot! Ponds at Vanier Park, old False Creek (duck ponds outside your balcony – ya!), Granville Island, industrial Fraser River Road – they’re all sort of escapes from the big city. I was once in a near-meditative state mesmerized by the hazy view under the Golden Ears bridge.

What are three things that drive you crazy about your city? 

J: 1.Traffic 2.Cost of living (stunner!) 3.Slow resolve of the compounding issues.

What are three things that you would change about your city?

J: 1. More access and opportunities for artists (I feel they’re underserved these days) 2. If I could somehow import the great nightlife we have in Europe to here, I’d be a happy camper – all ages, all nationalities, all languages under many a roof of great bars without the over-bearing ‘wing-man’ of a hockey game. 3. Preserve history and heritage architecture. We’re bland without it.

What are three things you absolutely adore about your city / what are three things you think the city couldn’t live without?

J: 1. People who have owned businesses here for a long time and still believe in Van, including my retailers and suppliers 2. The green spaces and nature that balance the urban landscape 3. DIY culture: I know this European ladette who bakes bread, learns new skills from peer artists and moonlights of growing grapes. Ha!

 Van shouldn’t live without: 1. The feeling of neighbourhoods with key businesses or landmarks that help make the community 2. The great restaurants 3. Its people – the movers, shakers and anyone who will roll their sleeves up to make things better for everyone.

We know you plan to move to Vic. What are the top three driving forces behind this move? 

J: I fell in love with Vic’s authenticity and the many worlds that fit within it. From the indie shops to the beautiful architecture. From the quiet nights and proximity of the ocean to the different neighbourhoods reminiscent of Old World locales – like Greater Manchester, the outskirts of Stockholm and my urban garden outside Vilnius.

 My partner and I want to live in a place where we know our neighbours, buy groceries from farms or street-side stands, listen to the flutter of water...and I need space for a wine cellar!

 Space is a big player. My tiny studio is bursting at the seams and I have been struggling to find a way to expand without blowing the budget or creating new obstacles. The new homes built on the Mainland are cookie-cutter designs built to commute from - rather than create - a community. The long commutes from the burbs would not be an option for us.

What are some things you are looking forward to in Vic? 

J: Wineries (!), more space, driving regularly (I really miss that in Van as I drive a van!). Nature, hopefully boating, and to have my partner working from home more. Maybe fostering cats. Having more wine friends over.

What are some things you aren’t looking forward to in Vic (challenges you foresee)? How do you see your transition happening from Van to Vic (how have you prepared)?

J: Vic will be a new market for my brand – something to adjust to. We’re aiming for a rural area so I might feel like a stranger in a small community because of my accent and such. Being away from my trusty suppliers who’ll be inconveniently distant. Being away from friends. But we’re planning actively: making arrangements with suppliers, learning about bulk firewood and bear -proofing and such. Learning about docks (we want waterfront property). Reading gardening books. Preaching to friends that they should move with us! 

If you’ve had time to explore Vic, what are your favourite places / things to do there?

J: Wineries (did I mention them yet?!), smaller art shows, Breakwater Café, Mount Doug, Not Just Pretty Clothing (who conveniently happens to be my retailer), the castles and their ghost stories, shopping, tasting, history.

Any obvious overlaps you see between Van and Vic that are interesting to you?

J: The most obvious is that they both strive for community and Vic is succeeding at it more than Van. They are both returning to true basics. Again, Vic is winning this with its small business - minded downtown core. Appreciation for art. It is mainstream in Vic and segmented in Van but it sure is there in both cities. I hope to find my fellow art enthusiasts in my new neighbourhood…

If you moved to Van from somewhere else, give us a story of the first time the city felt like home.

J: I came to Maple Ridge, BC, more than 10 years ago. I made no commitment to stay beyond six months at the time. I guess the Pacific Northwest seeped into my veins, as here I am a decade later looking to permanently settle. I had a plane ticket back to the UK in 2006. I was about to give up my studies here and return to a job in West Yorkshire when my soon-to-be partner asked me to stay. It was an eye-opening moment and I decided to give this country a shot. I felt at home here. I knew this side of the world was not what I may have envisioned for myself, but it is really (really) good in its own way.

What are some lessons you have learned being an entrepreneur/artist in Van? Are they different than the lessons you have learned about entrepreneurship in Vic?

J: I got used to being anonymous in Van while Vic really wants to know the face behind the business. I need to work on changing how I interact with my customers on the Island and let them in on knowing ME. Having been born and raised in a big city, this will be a new experience…

What’s next in business / art for you? What’s next in life for you? What are you most excited about for your biz?

J: I do hope to eventually build a home base for my brand in Vic: a studio / retail space in a neighbourhood that wants to have this kind of biz on their block. I am looking forward to getting to know my new community and market: my Island customers who only know us through third party retailers and pop-up shops I have done in town. I want to know what people are looking for in handbags: what entices them and what is helpful to them…I can’t wait!

What do you hope for the next generation of people in Van? In Vic?

J: For both cities, I hope the youngsters find a place where they belong in terms of their friend circle, spaces and ideas. The world is getting more transient and it is harder to find one’s spot. I hope there is a sense of community still around when the next generation grows up.

What is the funniest/craziest thing that has happened to you in Van? What is the darkest thing that has happened to you in Van that you feel comfortable sharing?

J: We once had to make a ‘crash landing’ on Spanish Banks to avoid risk of lightning striking our boat’s steel mast while sailing on the water.  I’ve never been in a situation like that one. Good memories, though. Also, acquiring the first retailers in Vancouver and on the Island and just having made deliveries of my first collection of bags. I felt as if I had wings - for real!

A tough time, probably, was when I was immigrating here. With the process being as long as it was then, I did not see my family for almost three years. Many a time I doubted the decision to live out West which, I guess, essentially is a plight of any immigrant. I still question it sometimes…

What memory will you always hold dear of Vancouver? what makes you go “awww, my home”?

J: On each drive from Alberta during Spring, just as we get out of the mountains and enter the Fraser Valley, the nature changes. Foliage and blooms come out, greenery comes out and so does the humidity in the air. I grew up in a rather humid place and loved living in that area, so with each return my body wakes up. The ocean smell, the soil and the greenery are a sure sign we’ve made it home.

Photos of: Le Marche St George (yvr), Local General Store (yyj), Uchida (yyj), Rangoli (yvr...Sutra in yyj), Main St Market (yvr), Hey Happy (yyj), Juniper (yvr), Clive’s (yyj), beach hangs (yyj), mountain hangs (yvr).

Twinsies: A Tale of Two Cities:

 Here we compile a very short list of similar places with different faces in the PNW cities of Vancouver and Victoria (more to come as our feed evolves). We know we missed a lot. Like...a lot. But we didn’t want to give everything away in one go. That said, please feel free to suggest more comparisons by joining our twitter feed ( /vanfolkvicfolk). Here are some twins we noticed in yvr and yyj so far. 

Let’s start at the beginning of the alphabet: Alcohol.

1) Beer: The Alibi Room (Vancouver, Railtown):  If you don't know this place, then sorry, you've been living under a rock. Starting as a hip hangout for 90s Vancouver film stars and still kicking a couple decades later, the Alibi room reigns supreme for beer selection and affordability. People drink the beer so quickly here, the menu needs backups for the already listed backup taps.  Always lively and always serving Vancouver's most fresh (in both terms) beer, the Alibi doesn’t cheap out on its food either. The cheese plate changes daily and the burgers and free range chicken wings are ah mazing. Driftwood is always (!) on tap and is now joined by equally ambitious PNW IPA musts. Always a solid choice when in the Railtown area. The Drake (Victoria, The Market, Downtown):  When we first visited Victoria, we didn't even look for a comparison to Alibi b/c we were so confident it was untouchable. Enter the Drake Eatery. An equally detailed, lively environment with copious amounts of tapped PNW and other beer (and beards). With delectable options for eating and a full and fun environment, the Drake is a new standard among Victorians in the beer(d) know. 2) Cocktails: Tie: Little Jumbo (Victoria, Lower Fort St) and Clive’s (Victoria, Downtown):  We have been to Kask (reigning king of cocktails) and Clyde Common (happy hour must) in Portland and we believe neither compare to the craftiness of the cocktails in Little Jumbo and Clive’s. Both bars share the backstory of having Nate Caudle head bartend so perhaps he is the demi god to thank for yyj’s forward pushing cocktail scene. Specifically at Little Jumbo, every server is also a bartender so they *know* the menu and can craft any cocktail for you from scratch. Feeling snacky? Good, because their food is also top notch and detail oriented. Always a great vibe (and alwayyys full on the weekend). Get to Little Jumbo early if you are a group. Tie: Juniper (Vancouver, Chinatown) and Torafuku (Vancouver, Chinatown):  Vancouver’s Chinatown is becoming cocktail central with places like the Keefer, Bao Bei, and The Emerald opening. Great mentions here are Juniper (with its gin-forward menu) and Torafuku (with an equally delectable and creative non-alcoholic drink menu). Also, don’t forget to order the duck wings at Juniper and the squid (oh so tender) at Torafuku. Juniper works to support local (eg Odd Society, maker of fine libations) and has local on the food menu (e.g. nettle perogies?!). Torafuku is just plain good food with a great atmosphere and must be visited. 3) Wine:  Salt Tasting Room (Vancouver, Blood Alley, Gastown):  Yes, we could have chosen a newer place or another standard like Uva, but we just can't get around the fun atmosphere and solid cheese and meat offerings of this Vancouver sweetheart. Half the fun is walking the historic alley to the venue (remember kids, smiles and respect will get you a long way with the alley locals who call this home). The rest of the fun is drinking the very well curated wine list with suggested cheese, meat and other goodies (they can pickle that...and try the local quince paste). Stage Wine Bar (Victoria, Fernwood):  Like with Salt, half the fun of this place is its location: right in the middle of light-decorated and historic Fernwood Square and its Belfry theatre (usually buzzing with people attending live theatre), Fernwood Inn (great hipster hang for beer and English pub food) and Cornerstone Cafe. Stage has created a stir in the foodie world and it isn't hard to see why. Besides an equally historic ambiance to Salt, the meat and cheese boards are also well “cure”ated. One of Victoria's wine sampling staples. Bar OSO (Whistler Village):  Whoops, how did this get here? Just a quick mention of this amazing wine, cocktail and meat/cheese board venue in our local answer to Aspen. Go there. Order the duck liver with candied orange zest. Just do it (you're welcome). Okay we can talk more food now: 

4) French: Both towns have an affinity for French food and we are very grateful for that. Brasserie l'ecole (Victoria, Chinatown):  Definitely our favourite place to dine in Victoria. Everything uses attention to detail: from the initial greeting to the place settings, service, food (impeccable), wine list, dessert (save room), and final 'goodnights', you will never be disappointed here. A very solid and very busy place to go (you will likely need to have a cocktail elsewhere while you wait, but don't fret, they call you when your table is ready). Les faux bourgeois: (Vancouver, Fraser St, Mount Pleasant):  Yes, we could have picked 100 other French restos but this place is special because of its neighbourhood feel. First off, it's our long time hood (love)! Secondly, the creme brulee is so good that the first time we tried it, we each ordered a second one before finishing the first. Good food and great owners who have done a lot for the block. A very authentic neighbourhood vibe.

5) Corner stores: Le Marche St George (Vancouver, Riley Park/Mountain View):  You knew this, right? Do we need to write more? This hood is getting its fair share of great bakeries, cafes, ice creameries and other goodies, but Le Marche was among the first of the new wave shops and is the most dear to our hearts. Recently in the papers for a good fight they fought over antiquated corner store by-laws, they are thriving as the trend-setting, kid friendly, Montreal worthy, people watching location they initially started as. We love you, Marche. The Local General Store (Victoria, Haultain Corners, Oaklands):  No Cafe (maybe one day?) but definitely another step back in time with its cute curiosities, local organic fare and super friendly service. They get fresh croissants, pretzels, buns and pain au chocolat delivered most mornings from local baker Fry's Red Wheat Bread. More of an actual store and less of a hood hang, but definitely worth a look. 6) Speaking of hanging out, outdoor market season is coming up. These are our fav's for Outdoor Markets: Tie: Trout Lake market and Main St Market (Vancouver East):  Basically the same vendors but held on different days, these markets bring a good number of visitors weekly through market season. Find local coffee brewers, organically farmed everything, cheese, bread and sometimes live music. Always a fun outing (note: the Main St Market is held at Nat Bailey Stadium in the Winter and in front of the Pacific Train Station in the summer).  Tie: Moss St Market (Victoria, Fairfield) and Oaklands market (Victoria, Oaklands):  The first time we went to Oaklands market, we found our yyj peeps: Bows and Arrows coffee roasters (up there with the big leagues of Heart and Ritual), Hungry Rooster perogy truck (ridiculously good), live carnival bands, pottery from hood locals Hands on Pottery, and of course local produce and the typical smiling faces seen in yyj’s outdoor market scene. Moss St Market boasts regulars like Mylkmaid (vegan milk substitute masters) and has a special wine and beer tasting section too (no minors in that area, sorry). 

7) Coffee Shops:

Hey Happy: (Victoria, The Market, LoJo):

 These people make good coffee. ‘Nuff said. Try the Honey Latte for something extra special. They sell many amazing coffee brands including Calgary’s own Phil and Sebastian.

Revolver: (Vancouver, Gastown):

 These people also make good coffee. They also sell (the same) amazing coffee brands. Yum. 

8) Special places:

 Every city has them: that place that is so special it actually helps define the city. If the rest of the city disappeared it would be okay as long as this place stayed. Here are our special places:

Vij’s/Rangoli: (Vancouver, South Granville and Cambie Village):

 Always solid food, always a good price and always full to the brim with international foodies. Moreover, the servers always make you feel at home and comfortable (no pretention here). Victoria is also lucky to have a Vij’s outlet in it’s Public Market: Sutra. Sutra serves cafe style food, has a happy hour from 4 til close every day and gives a “locals” (i.e. good for everyone) discount on take away food every Thursday.

Uchida Eatery: (Victoria, Downtown):

 Authentic (!) Japanese food served in an authentic space with CBC Radio Two playing in the background. Best scallops we’ve had. Come early to line up. They are only open M-F from 11am-2pm. We once saw an authentic Samurai eating here. It’s that good. 

 We could keep going but let’s not get crazy! Let’s end instead with a very important start to one's day:

 9) Brunch: Jam (Victoria, Chinatown. Vancouver, Beatty St):

 Simply. The. Best. Tina would agree. Try the...anything! Try anything on the menu! We tried the oatmeal (oatmeal!) and had to come back for more. Their magical menu rivals the best of Portland's brunches and they have an equally lengthy line-up to prove it. Victorians take their brunch just as seriously as their weird sister city to the south and it shows through the quality of how they break their fast. Good news for brunch fiends everywhere, Jam will soon be found in BOTH cities (they are opening a second location in Vancouver’s Crosstown where Medina was for years). Soon, Jam will delight Vancouver's equally enthusiastic brunch crowd. This is probably the best news of 2016...

(First photo by Giles Clement, second by Trevor Ball)

 VicFolk, meet (as if you don't already know him) Tyson Elder: the bearded man with a cam that wanders concerts and streets making life look musical through his lens. Tyson is one of a team that forms YYJ's Rocktographers (rocktographers.ca) and anyone performing this town has had their good side highlighted by one of these creative camera crafters. Tyson's site (rocktographer.ca) highlights his sense of humour with the main page picturing him blowing St Patty's green beard glitter at the viewer. The site also highlights his incredible talent at his profession with diverse pics from local radio station personalities to pop up shows to the ever-loved Rifflandia Festival. This guy is serious about his snapshots. Introducing Tyson:

Short Form:

Give us a quick background on what makes You:

 Photographer, music lover, travel, concert goer, wanderer, beard grower, sunburnt, writer, beer drinker. 

Describe who is your community:

 Photographers. Artists. Musicians. Music fans. Bar flys.

What is the basis of your business/art and what are the important footings that build your business/art creation model? 

 Celebrate photographers, gather community, create, connect, make something tangible 

What are three things you think the city couldn't live without?

 Coffee, beer, and music scene.

What are three things you absolutely adore about your city?

 See above.

Essays Please:

If you moved here from somewhere else, give us a story of the first time the city felt like home:

 I moved here from Winnipeg when I was still in high school. We moved around a lot when I was younger because of my father's career. Nowhere had really felt like home for a long time. There was always the possibility of having to leave town. I got really good at saying goodbye to friends and cities. It wasn't until I came home from a backpacking trip in Europe that I knew that Victoria was my home. It was that ferry ride home, the sea air, the blue skies, and greenness. It was like I was seeing Victoria and BC for the first time. 

What are some lessons you have learned being an entrepreneur/artist in this town?

 Nothing is easy. Even if you are passionate about the things you do and create, it takes hard work. If you aren't willing to put in the work, it's not going to work out. Sometimes the passion breaks through the waves of exhaustion and that's what makes you know what you are doing is worthwhile. 

(VanVic: we are going to write these words above our bed so we can read them last thing every night and first thing every morning!)

 Also, let other people help you. Despite something being your baby, you have to let other people in. You can't do everything by yourself. You can, but not well.  In the past year I've had several people join my team at Rocktographers. Kirsten James, Webmeister Bud, and Lindsey Blane. All of them with specific skills that have made Rocktographers bigger and better than I could have ever imagined. I doubt we'd have the success we have had without their hard work.

What are some things that drive you crazy about your city / what are things that you would change?  

 Victoria is very stuck in its ways. Maybe that has to do with its large elderly and hippy population. It drives me nuts that there seems to be no growth or expansion here. Anytime someone wants to do something that could potentially bring jobs, tourists, or  - god forbid - money to this town, it always gets shut down. Maybe that's why I see so many empty storefronts downtown (another thing that drives me nuts). People are leaving to start their businesses elsewhere because they can afford rent in other communities and will have the support of the locals. 

 I don't know how to change this mentality of "not in our backyard," but I have some ideas. I'm thinking a smaller island and sending all these people to it. Ha.

 If I had the ability, I would certainly like to change our public transit system to work better for commuters from the western communities and the peninsula. I'd also like to see more youth arts programs like The Vera Project (a Seattle youth program that teaches kids about music and arts in hands-on ways). 

What's next in business/art for you? What's next in life for you?

 Obviously, I'd like to make money with the art I create. It hasn't really happened yet but I'm getting there. That's always been the next step with any venture I've started. I don't need much but I would like to keep cornflakes on the table.  I'd love to start travelling again. I miss the call of the open road and the adventures that come with it. Whether that is with a band or on a solo journey, we will have to see. Iceland is looking pretty appealing these days, though

(VanVic: we went there last summer. GO!)

What do you hope for the next generation of people in your city?

 I hope the next generation of people in my city have an easier time finding places to live and jobs that can help sustain a decent lifestyle. It's sort of a scary time in Victoria right now. There are very few affordable places to rent - let alone buy - and fewer jobs that pay a livable wage. While I think that some suffering is required for good art, I'm a firm believer that everyone should have a roof above their heads and food in their belly. 

What are your favourite places to go/experience things in and around your city?

 I love coffee shops. There is something about the energy in those rooms that gets me jazzed about things...maybe it's the caffeine. I always bump into people from the Victoria music scene in my favourite coffee shop. We usually end up talking for hours about everything and nothing. It's my favourite way to find out what's happening in the city at any given time. 

Where do you live in the city and why do you like that area? What are your favourite haunts in the hood? 

 I don't live in Victoria proper right now. I sort of live near Sidney but in a more rural setting. We have horses, an apple orchard, and no cell reception. It's a nice area but not where I planned to be. It's a little too remote sometimes. Most days you can find me at Discovery Coffee on Discovery St. It's pretty much my second home and more importantly my office. I also spend a lot of time in Quadra Village these days and will probably be living there by the end of the summer. Part and Parcel is by far one of my favourite restaurants in the city and I can often be found there getting lunch. 

What is the funniest/craziest thing that has happened to you in your city? 

 A few years ago I was at Goldstream Park with a couple of friends trying to take pictures of bald eagles. A good friend of mine is an avid bird photographer, but as we were walking back to the car we noticed something weird about the river ahead. It was florescent green. It looked like the ooze from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Our attention turned to that and a couple of my photos ended up on the front page of the paper.

(VanVic: annnnd the green ooze was...?)

Do you plan to stay in your city for a long time or are you considering moving somewhere else relatively soon? 

 Victoria is home. While I've often contemplated moving away to start something new somewhere else, I can't fathom leaving the Island to live somewhere else. I've always travelled and wanted to explore the world but Victoria is always a good place to come home to. 

What memory will you always hold dear of this city? What makes you go "Aw, my city".

 I don't think there is any particular memory that I hold close about the city, but more the feelings I have when doing things here. Warm Summer nights on ocean beaches and patios with friends, cherry blossoms filling the streets (and triggering my allergies) in the Spring, rainy Winter nights by the fireplace, and walking through the woods just outside of town in the Fall. The way the community comes together to celebrate and support the many arts and music festivals throughout the Summer certainly warms my heart. These are my people. 

Thanks, Tyson, for this amazing insight into Victoria. See you at the next concert (we'll be the ones crazy dancing all night long).

Portland Musings:

 The Pacific Northwest is a special place and anyone who lives here can (and probably will without being prompted) tell you why:

 - surfable ocean (be it cold)

- ample beaches (even sandy ones!)

- cherry blossoms that colour the cities as early as February

- a casual, nature-oriented lifestyle balanced with city activities like craft beer drinking, farm to table eating, and licensed indie movie theatre going.  

 The PNW even boasts (to Scandinavia's dismay) starting recent trends that have made their way around the world, or at least across North America: 

- Portland's Kinfolk Magazine lifestyle guide, top notch distilleries, food carts, cocktail bars and indie label Kill Rock Stars

- Vancouver's #VancouverIsAwesome blog, pop up shops and old time barbers

- Victoria's Eat Magazine foodie mag, trendy raw food restaurants and craft beer (now cider) revolution

- Tofino's locally-sourced food eateries

- and of course the re-launch of the original, Seattle grunge plaid shirt with a twist (insert beards here) alongside the best music station ever (KEXP) and killer bands like the Head and the Heart (author subjectivity, perhaps).

 So why not celebrate the PNW, which is "happening now", as Portland puts it? Yes, let's definitely celebrate and maybe even show off a little bit (when else do we have the chance when it's raining 90% of the time?).

 But with this fame comes attention, namely from the next gen of PNW enjoyers: future urban planners, developers and the populations they help relocate to the PNW for its overall awesomeness. Now, this is nothing to be particularly doomsday about, though we've seen these types of articles swirling around our cities. This development trend, however, does require careful consideration of what the next gen in our cities will enjoy: what will be most important to keep around? parks? culture? livability (including walkability, air quality, food quality)? diversity? indie shops? start up business? We need to carefully consider how to develop our cities to nurture our chosen needs so they remain a strong cornerstone for our cities into the future.

 Our most recent visit to Portland showed us that even the "best city ever to exist" (trademark, VanVic) is susceptible to quick redevelopment vs. long-term planning, BUT because of Portland's strong history in considering long-term city benefits and because of the strong communities established there, these quick redevelopments are only happening in small, pocket neighbourhoods for now (unfortunately resulting in the displacement of artists and low income or no income earners, as is the typical case). This isn't an article meant to poo poo on Portland's current development issues. Quite the opposite. VanVic noticed some great ideas happening in Portland as it undergoes the natural process of gentrification and we hope to see these ideas explored more in our beautiful cities of Vancouver and Victoria. 

 Here is a by-no-means exhaustive list of our findings on Portland’s saving graces as it redevelops. We collected these thoughts in the least scientific way possible (remember, this is merely a blog that you're reading) and they relate only to our two largest Canadian PNW cities (Van and Vic - sorry Tofino, Ukee, Nanaimo, and all other amazing PNW destinations):

1) low to mid rise builds are increasing density but aren't large enough to take away Portland's amazing, street-level interactions.      

     - Most of the new buildings we saw going up around Division, Mississippi and Burnside were 4-6 stories (with Mississippi's buildings being a bit taller but not greater than about 12 stories). These buildings barely shaded the streets and were all architecturally very interesting (no ticky tacky like we can see in some Vancouver or Vic West neighbourhoods). This allows infill without overtaking a neighbourhood's original character (score)!

2) Mid sized music venues and small art galleries are alive and well, with unique venues popping up still (like the converted high school that became Revolution Hall on Stark Ave).      

     - May we add that these venues pay their artists (for the most part) quite fairly? Oh, and people attend the shows (sort of important). The arts scene is very alive in Portland and for the size of the town, so many people are out and about all of the time. Meanwhile, old standard venues at home (like the Railway Club) are closing presumably due to rental costs combined with low attendance.

3) Portland still has a large industrial area where artists can find low rental studio space.  Urban Planners are working to protect some of these areas from over-development.   

     - Vancouver is eating up our industrial areas at a rapid speed to create more condos, and Victoria isn't far behind (though many areas of Vic West and Burnside are still well within reach of the average artist income). That said, even in Portland, Burnside artists have recently been evicted from an artist space to make way for a new office building. Most of the artists did eventually find a new home (but some moved away because affordable rent is becoming rare in Portland too).

4) It's all about the Indie in Portland: Indie Music, Indie Record Shops, Indie Restaurants, Indie Theatres, just Indie.     

      - Vancouver has traded a lot of its Indie for more mainstream commercial stores (insert most of downtown), most likely due to rent hikes in gentrifying areas. East Van still has a lot of Indie gems that are getting pushed further east due to rents and development, while other Indie stores are finding the means to open up in East Van (yay!). Meanwhile, Victoria is still hanging onto its Indie stores (Munro's books was just voted top 10 bookstores worldwide by National Geographic, alongside Portland's Powell Books). Victorians also voraciously support any start-up biz that’s locally owned, as do Portlandians. However, the malls are still a large force in Victoria (with stores like Whole Foods coming in Fall 2016 - a major competitor to Vic's local, organic stores). We think that Indie, DIY anything is always a more community way to approach local economies because it allows for direct communication between the neighbourhood and its supplier/store owner. There is a direct feedback loop between supply and demand that doesn't exist in the same way with big box stores. We hope that our local Indie stores can hold on and thrive under future development with some rent control, perhaps?

5) Diversification in local industry is still happening in Portland: tourism, art, digital media and tech companies, indie start ups, and yes, the housing market.     

      - In Vancouver and Victoria, we have tech and housing as our go-to economy, with Vancouver's tech market shrinking alongside the affordability of the city. If straight forward things happened like eased by-laws for food trucks, rent caps for commercial spaces in burgeoning areas, affordable access to extended restaurant license hours, new co-op and transition housing builds, eased noise bylaws for live music clubs (sorry, you live in a city, deal bro), and dedicated artist workspace (why not make use of schools and churches when they aren't in session which has been suggested by Portland planners, or build art workspaces into new builds like with most new Portland developments?), could we diversify our local economy more?

6) Lastly, and this is our favourite, Portlanders ARE weird and the best kind of weird.      

     - These are totally emancipated people who really don't give a fuck what others think of them. They are wholly themselves, each and every unique Portlander. They all stand up for something (or many things) and make their thoughts known to each other and to the local government. Us Canadian PNWers, we have to admit, are a bit too concerned with what others perceive of us. Maybe it's just a Canadian thing (sorry...). Or maybe, if we just shook it off and cut loose a bit, we would be able to speak our minds more and allow more ideas to flow. Then we could really work together to protect and nurture those aspects of our cities we, as unique beings, cherish most. 

 Development isn't the issue, it's how it happens that can become the issue. We welcome more people to our neck of the woods (they finally get how awesome it is and are deciding to join us in our "west coast best coast" utopia), but we can't forget the people that made this place awesome to begin with: artists, environmentalists, back to the landers, entrepreneurs, and all the other 'weirdos'. 

 Again, this is just a musing after another great trip to another great city. We underline that this blog is not scientific nor a reliable platform for suggesting how to solve some of our local development issues at hand. It’s just a good topic to continue discussing to ensure our cities’ futures stay positive.  Thanks for reading.

(T.Nile in her element with her trademark red, electric guitar - Photo by Tim Chow. Also, T looks good in every style of hat - no joke - and loves her Galiano Island Silver Streak)

 VanFolk, meet T.Nile, a genre-pushing female producer, songwriter and performer from the depths of East Van (what better person to feature on International Women’s Day?). Her brand of Deep Electro Folk is not only completely on trend with (if not ahead of) what's happening in music now, but her vocal melodies capture your soul from the first notes uttered. She has serenaded Canada, Europe and now the USA for her upcoming Spring 2016 tour. She has graced the international stages of the Edmonton Folk Fest, Vancouver's Folk Fest and YYJ's Rifflandia to name a few, and is an award-winning writer. We have known this gifted, gritty, gorgeous, goofy gal for a while and spent many nights eating delectable, organic creations at her kitchen table followed by banjo-synth jams (yes those two instruments jam together, like PB and J). She plays YVR’s Slickity Jim’s this Thursday March 10 (details at bottom) but we thought you should also get to know the person behind the biz, so here is the talented T.Nile: 

Short and sweet : 

What describes you? 

Creative ambivert, feral nature lover, third generation musician, songwriter, intellectual. 

What is the basis of your art creation? 

The spark of connection and the passion of learning.

Who is your community? 

Members of the counterculture from any generation. 

What describes your business? 

 Outskirts Central is a record label / management company / booking agency that produces, releases and promotes DEEP // ELECTRO // FOLK. We started the label back in 2006 as a vehicle to record and release my albums, but it’s evolving. In 2017 we’ll will be expanding to sign and support other artists.

Which neighbourhood do you live in? 

SoMa (South Main) 

Describe your neighbourhood. 

People of ethnically diverse origin and upwardly mobile creatives. 

What do you like about your hood? 

 It’s the center of town yet it still feels like a small, peaceful and cozy community. 

Name three favourite local neighbourhood haunts you frequent. 

Pho Tan, The Acorn, and The Salvation Army. 

What are things you absolutely adore about Van? 

 The diverse, abundant and delicious restaurants, the mountain views and the seawall. 

What's something that drives you crazy about your city? 

 Vancouverites tend to keep to themselves so it’s not necessarily the easiest place to meet new people. 

Into the essays :

Have you always lived in Vancouver or did you move from somewhere else? Are you planning to stay? 

 I moved from Galiano to do a Music degree at VCC and SFU and once I started playing around town and developing a music career I knew I’d be sticking around for a while. It was a short ferry ride back to my Island community so it was easy to stay connected to family back home. I now go back to Galiano to write and create whenever I need a break from the hustle and bustle of Vancouver. It’s a perfect balance for me.

What was a proud moment for you, living in Van? When did it really feel like home? 

 Early on, when I volunteered for the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, I realized I could make a go of it in the city. By experiencing the strong sense of community and collaboration that permeates the folk music scene I knew I had found my people in Vancouver. 

What are some lessons you learned being an entrepreneur/artist in this town? What’s next for you in your business?

 I learned that it’s okay to “do your own thing” and really go in the direction you are passionate about. Vancouverites appreciate anything authentic, unique and original, which is a great backdrop for developing your own brand of creativity.

How often do you “hone your craft”? What are the hours or efforts put in with your business?

 I find that the business side of things can often take over, so that’s one of the big challenges of being both a creative and an business owner. Lately I’ve been splitting my days up into segments in order to make sure I do the creative work and not let the admin of running a label soak up all of my energy and time. It’s a fine balance and often I strike it but it takes daily effort.

What are your favourite places to go/experience things in Van or the surrounding area?

 I love riding my bike around the seawall and then going for food near English Bay. I also love the thrift shops of Vancouver but I’m not telling you a​ll​of the best ones- you have to figure that out yourself :) 

(VanVic - ?... single tear...)

What do you hope for the next generation of people in your city? 

 I hope that the next generation gets to actually grow up here! If there’s anything that may drive me out of Vancouver, it’s the high cost of living and of housing in particular. I know there are some initiatives being planned and I, along with most of my creative friends, really hope they work. The way things are going, almost everyone who’s not wealthy leaves the city if they want to have children or buy a home. 

Lastly, is there anything about Van that makes you go “aww, my home”? 

 Every time I step off a plane at YVR and inhale that first breath of salty, moist, pacific northwest air, I know I’m home <3

(photos: Andrea Soos of Poppet Creative, display of local artisan Lumota Designs, artist getting ready for an evening workshop)

 VicFolk, meet Andrea Soos, owner of Poppet Creative in Haultain Corners. Located on the border of Funky Fernwood and Oaklands (home of the best damn outdoor farmers market), Poppet serves a diverse and creative community of artists and families. Every city needs a safe space for art creation and idea sharing and Poppet goes above and beyond in their offerings. Andrea's cozy studio reminds us of Vancouver's Collage Collage (at 3697 Main St in the heart of Mount Pleasant, Fernwood's twin sister). In mentioning Collage Collage, Andrea underlined that she is a huge fan of what Erin has created at CC and takes inspiration from that space - with her own twist, of course. Both studios earn our respect in supporting local artists and selling locally made retail on top of cultivating community. Win.

 Check out www.poppetcreative.com to see their Adult, Teen, Family and Child oriented classes, artist talks, retreats and open studios with varied mediums (from jewellery making to screenprinting to Pysanky)! This is Andrea's take on her community.

Short and sweet :

What describes you?

Creative introvert, passionate about community

What is the basis of your art creation?

Play and process

Who is your community?

Artists, mothers, makers

What describes your business?

Poppet is a neighbourhood gathering place/art space/hub that provides creative opportunities for the individual, child, family and community.

Which neighbourhood do you live in?

Oaklands/Fernwood

Describe your neighbourhood.

Young families, cool creatives

What do you like about your hood?

Down to earth neighbours, lots of parks, walking distance to everything,

Name three favourite local neighbourhood haunts you frequent.

Fernwood Coffee/Parsonage Cafe,  Stage Wine Bar, The Local General Store

What are three things you absolutely adore about Vic?

The community and friends we have made. The beaches. Mount Doug.

What are three things that drive you crazy about your city?

It is frustrating that getting to Vancouver is so expensive and such a long trip. It feels like I get over there less and less to see friends and family.

Into the essays:

Have you always lived in Victoria or did you move from somewhere else? Are you planning to stay?

 I came from Vancouver to do a fine arts degree at the University of Victoria and once I landed a teaching job at Island Blue Print, I knew I was here for a while. We had such a great group of artists on staff and I could still travel and come back and teach when the schedule fit. I also moved with a group of friends from Vancouver and some of our best memories are from our time in Victoria. Then I had babies and knew I couldn't move back to Vancouver. Victoria is so family friendly.

What was a proud moment for you, living in Vic? When did it really feel like home?

 The proudest moment so far, I would say, was opening Poppet as a storefront. After years of teaching in many different capacities and at many venues, including my quiet attic studio, Poppet became a visual reality that my community has embraced. Haultain Corners is the only place I considered opening.

What are some lessons you learned being an entrepreneur/artist in this town? What's next for you in your business?

 I learned that the crafting community was where I really felt at home. After many years of trying to do the craft markets on my own, Emmy-Lou McMillan started up the Owl Fair (www.facebook.com/owldesignerfair/) and a lot of the people that I had only known briefly became great friends and a source of support for what I was doing.  It's hard to put yourself out in the public when you are introverted and used to working in isolation but I found a group of talented friends in the same position.  

Poppet Creative will continue to utilize these creative contacts to put out community-driven workshops and classes and hopefully introduce more people to the powerful positives of art making.

How often do you "hone your craft"? What are the hours or efforts put in with your business?

 I am working all the time. It's a hard balance being a mom and a business owner, which all parents feel. It's also hard to find time to create for myself and not just for work. I would like to paint more.

What are your favourite places to go/experience things in Vic or the surrounding area?

 My family has a new puppy so we are hiking Mt Doug more than ever, which I love. I love a good night out with friends at Zambri's or Stage Wine Bar as well as seeing some great live music. We go to Salt Spring Island and Parksville every year and never tire of it.

What do you hope for the next generation of people in your city?

 I hope my kids can still enjoy the beauty of this city...that we don't fuck it up with environmental issues and overpopulation.

Lastly, is there anything about Vic that makes you go "aww, my home"?

Walking down Haultain Street at night with my kids and Norman (our dog) in tow, spotting the soft light coming from inside Poppet and seeing the smiling faces creating magic in the cozy studio.

Check out Poppet Creative's spring classes at: www.poppetcreative.com/register/ including an artist talk from The Jealous Curator (a popular speaker - we dare you to check out her FB likes), a talk with local artist Marc Johns, a creative retreat for adults and teen girls, and a workshop on hand lettered fonts, among other treats (we recommend Andrea-led Mixed Media Tuesdays). Poppet is located at 1508 Haultain St, Victoria.