Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre

From the business owner

Sybil Salvin Rampen established the Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre. She joined the United Empire Loyalists at birth on April 29th, 1929. She has warm memories of gathering around a gas lamp to hear tales of yesteryear. Sybil was so moved by these stories that she has made it her mission to spread awareness about the value of local traditions among future generations.

Her schooling has taken her all across the world. Sybil earned a BA in Art and Archaeology from the University of Toronto and continued her education in Paris and London. Sybil's thirty-five years of teaching experience in painting, needlework, and other media, combined with her Art Specialist certification from the Ontario College of Education, have made her a respected and sought-after instructor among aspiring artists. Her paintings have been shown at galleries all around the world.

Sybil expanded the back of the house throughout the years, adding a studio for her paintings, a loft for her belongings, a workshop, and finally, in 2006, a Winter Garden to bring it all together. The majority of the furnishings are pine and vintage. Sybil hopes to leave a Living Museum as a legacy for future generations to enjoy.

The barn was dismantled in 2007 and rebuilt on new foundations as an art gallery. The lobby and a huge kitchen for catering were both new additions. Beams from the neighboring barn were used to build a massive porch. The study area and library are located on the second floor. The Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre is always bustling with activity thanks to the many events and gatherings that take place there. The huge Labyrinth is a mown route in a world-class meadow; it was inspired by Chartres Cathedral. Extensive grounds and gardens, including a brand new gazebo perfect for ceremonies.

In order to maintain the property's natural beauty and to offer habitat for wildlife, trees are consistently planted on the site, frequently in honor of departed loved ones. The goal of Joshua Creek Heritage Art is to serve as an oasis, a reminder of the history of this great country in the midst of the town's ongoing urbanization, traffic, and loss of countryside.