Interconnection at the Sawmill Art Exhibit

Connie Allardyce | Aug 10, 2016

“Interconnection” (Photo left) was the title of one of the works by artist Havery Shultz at the Sawmill Art Exhibit in Verona on August 6 & 7. It is a vibrantly painted depiction on the tree of life theme showing a strongly rooted tree on a background of fire-like swirls. The trunk of the tree has many off shoots, symbolic of health and growth, while the crown of the tree shows a pair of hands clasping in a shelter shape, depicting the strength of interconnection. This intensely personal painting just came to Shultz as she was painting.

Coincidentally the painting could not have done a better job of depicting the devoted energies of all the exhibitors in this century-old, awe-inspiring historic building in Verona, which once was a sawmill. Their joint involvement for four years now has conspired to create this impressive show of talent, which is so worthy of a visit by residents and visitors alike.

While raising a young family in Verona, Shultz is valiantly putting her art talents to work. Thankfully she has a good team of supporters in her husband, Piotr Rauchfleisch, and her mother, Deborah Shultz. Piotr is uniquely positioned to aid his wife, as he is an entrepreneur himself, with an Ottawa marketing business named Media Mall, and her mother Deborah is a helpful, fun and entertaining show assistant.

As a previous student of the Ontario College of Art, Havery Shultz shows a willingness to work in various mediums. Her current artistic leanings are toward larger custom designs and installations incorporating delicate wood burning and acrylic paint, which are finished with clear lacquer for durability. She can be reached for consultation at her website: haveryshultz.com or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Further examples of the power of interconnection were evidenced by the offering up by Judy Skeggs of the perfect venue: her historic sawmill property at 6037A Verona St. Her beautifully crafted quilts were hung on display at the far end of the long, airy sawmill space. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tracy and Sharon of Water’s Edge Pottery also assisted in the organization of the art show and fielded calls regarding the event. They can be thanked for the addition of easily spotted balloons attached to the show signage, which helped those of us less familiar with the locale. These women do not mind sharing their talents either, as they offer afternoon or evening workshops, weekend and long retreats. Contact them for details at watersedgepottery.ca or (613) 375-8343.

Other equally impressive artists at the show included landscape and portrait artist Elaine Farragher (www.farragher.ca); Jayne Negus, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; David Gilmore; and Jill Harris, plus artists from the Kingston artists’ center The Mess. There was also chainmail jewelry by Bill Anderson of Verona; copper jewelry by Carolyn Bloye; knitting and spinning by Gina Ritchie; and quilts by Victoria’s Quilts, the organization that makes quilts for cancer patients.