Arts & Culture

Room with a View - A Look at Gladstone's Most Recent Show

KAROLINA WISNIEWSKI
Staff Writer

I like to think I’m fairly in touch with local galleries, but for years, my unfamiliarity with the Gladstone had left a gaping hole in my mental rolodex (yes, rolodex) of relevant culture spots. It had taken on an almost mythological quality in my mind, representing a cultural and social mecca that was emblematic of top-tier independent Toronto art. Never having visited such a relevant institution, I consequently felt disconnected from a portion of the city’s arts scene.

When I heard it was hosting the opening reception for it’s 9th annual alternative design event, Come Up To My Room on Saturday, January 28th, I jumped on the chance to see it. The premise of the show was to transform 11 rooms on Gladstone’s second floor into whatever the artists and designers wanted. I had looked over the curatorial statement and even had a pleasant exchange with the artistic director about securing a few photos to include in my review. He was helpful and professional, which was decidedly refreshing, considering the last time I emailed a curator explaining I was an Osgoode student writing for the on-campus paper and asking for some pictures, I received the flippant and slightly frustrating answer: “hahaha. what a weird place for a review. sure, we can get you some pics”.

Long story short, all signs pointed to a fantastic opening reception, and I was eager to see what I had been missing for so long. I came expecting a quirky but sophisticated show that straddled the distinction between boring King West elitism and back-door DIY student run affairs; what exactly that might look like I wasn’t sure, but I knew it wouldn’t disappoint.

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10 Reasons Why You Should Check Out Tosca at the Canadian Opera Company

PAMELA HINMAN
Contributor

Whether you are a first time opera goer or a seasoned opera buff, here are ten reasons why you should check out Tosca at the COC:

1. Puccini’s Tosca is one of the best loved operas of all time. Set in 19th century Rome, this is a tale of a passionate woman caught in a web of corruption, lust, and betrayal.

2. If you are a first time opera goer, this is probably one of the best operas for you to see...

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An Interview with Professor and Singer-Songwriter Lynda Collins

NANCY SITU
Arts & Culture Editor

Lynda Collins is an Osgoode alumna who is now an Associate Professor at University of Ottawa Faculty of Law as well as a singer-songwriter with over 17 years of experience. She has performed across North America as a musician and is also eligible to practice both in Canada and the United States.

We asked her a little about what it’s like to balance work and life...

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