Drink in the local art

by Richard Riosa

A local winery is combining art and wine to support independent female artists.

Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards, located between Harrow and Kingsville, hosted GlamaRama Feb. 22. The event featured wine produced by CHV, as well as a handful of local female art vendors, a women’s make-up specialist and a playful fashion show by Bras by Jillish.

MaryAnn Perry, sales and event manager at CHV, said she organized the GlamaRama to showcase county art and to draw people out of the city. Perry said she thinks many people in Windsor may not realize how far into the county the arts community extends.

“If you’re in the county, there’s a lot of wine tasting, but there’s also a lot of (locally owned) places to shop,” said Perry.

One of the local vendors, Brianne Janisse, makes and sells handmade, gemstone jewellery as a side job. She said she couldn’t pass up the chance to be a part of the event.

“I think it’s a great thing that women can get together to share their skills, their craft and to converse and of course drink wine,” said Janisse.

Janisse said the highlight of her day was seeing the work done by the other local artists at the event.

Bras by Jillish owner Jill Thompson said she was happy to showcase her “wearable art” at such a glamorous event. The bras are customized and modified by gluing everyday items such as Lego to pre-existing bras. Thompson, who is used to showing off her custom, modified bras at night clubs instead of wineries, said she welcomed the idea of modeling for other women.

“There are a lot of people out in the county who love to have a good time and who are delighted by my things and so I’m actually kind of surprised and kind of floored that they like it and respond well to it,” said Thompson.

Thompson said she was happy with the turnout and positive reaction her art received from the more than 100 people who attended. Perry said she also heard positive feedback from guests and is planning to hold more female-focused events in the future.

Kim Pruyn was one of the people who attended the event at CHV. She said the event helped her get away from the stresses of her daily life and relax with some friends.

“A lot of people might not have known this winery’s here…” said Pruyn. “My girlfriend brought her grandma and now she loves the Musque (a type of white wine) – so it’s good for both (the winery and the guests).”

Perry said she hopes to hold up to two women’s events each year and will be looking to utilize the vineyard’s outdoor space in the warmer months to provide more vendors and live entertainment.