By Ewa Chwojo-Srawely
There may be no historic reason why it’s called the Purple Turtle Festival, but no one really minds—least of all the artists and art lovers who flock each year to the meadow at The Briars.
The rumour has it that the original committee just liked purple. And turtle rhymed with it. There may even have been wine involved!
The festival was first conceived over 20 years ago by a group of local artists. Organizers Penny Gyokeres and Cheryl Fulcher took the reins 13 years ago and have been keeping the spirit alive ever since.
Cheryl says. “We love fostering younger artists—there’s real camaraderie here, with experienced artists mentoring the next generation.”
Penny adds, “The Briars has been incredibly accommodating. They’ve fully embraced us as part of their yearly attractions.”
Diane Payne and her husband Randy have been part of the festival nearly from the beginning. “We keep coming back,” she says, “because our customers keep coming back!”
Their booth displays Diane’s delicate floral paintings on salvaged window screens, framed in reclaimed wood, as well as Randy’s funky birdhouses, made from things like old shovels and fence boards. “We’re a perfect team,” Diane says. “He builds, I paint.”
Repurposing is also at the heart of Jane Jacobs’ work. The Newmarket-based artist returns each year with naturally dyed pre-loved clothing, each imprinted with foraged leaves from her backyard or rescued plants like her beloved smoke bush. “Everything I make has a story,” Jane says. “And I love this festival. It feels like a community, not just a show.”
Painter Andrea Macleod calls herself a “Purple Turtle lifer.” This year she brought not only her paintings but also puzzles featuring her artwork – a big hit with visitors. “There’s so much creativity and positivity here,” she says. “The networking is incredible. You meet fellow artists, share ideas, and really support each other. It feels less like a show and more like a family.”
The event attracts people from afar. Christa Alexander from Toronto and Sadie Alexander from Vancouver are staying at the cottage here. “We came last year and made sure to come again,” Christa says. “We always find something unique.”
Trish Kosar from Georgina comes every year. “Every time I find something interesting. Today I bought a felted piece for my grandson. “I love that everything is one-of-a-kind.”
“And that’s exactly the point,” says Gyokeres. “Whether it’s a $10 birdhouse or a $2,000 painting, every piece here is made by someone who cares deeply about what they do.”
With veteran artists mentoring newcomers, and friendships blooming, the Purple Turtle Festival continues to be a place where creativity and community meet under the summer sun.
For more information about the festival visit: https://purpleturtlearts.ca/
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