About Just for Us Originals
Just for Us Originals is an annual art show and sale featuring the work of Canadian women artists. The inaugural show took place on March 24, 2007 at The Old Mill in Toronto.
The idea of the show was conceived by artwear designer Bonnie Glass. Based on her own experiences, Bonnie was convinced that women artists needed a new venue through which to exhibit and sell their art, and thereby expand the audience for their work. In early 2007, Bonnie tested her idea on a handful of friends, colleagues, and clients. They responded enthusiastically, and several united as a team to organize the first show in the spring of that year. The inaugural event was a great success. To quote one woman who attended, “Everything was about perfect!”
In addition to Bonnie Glass, the first organizational committee included visual artist Candace Slack, retired educator Linda Wells, retired businesswoman Sue Grant, and dedicated arts patron Karen Colenbrander. Tony Lolic, Garry Toth, Louise Milnialoff, and Lynn Johannson also volunteered significant time in order to make the first show a reality. In 2008, most of this original team is back while designer Marie Payne and writer Janet Friskney have joined the organizational committee. Together they’re working hard to realize this year’s show and sale on April 5, 2008 at The Old Mill in Toronto.