I felt a shiver of anticipation as I approached the manor, uncertain of what I was walking into.
The Monster Project is an exhibit put together by the Poor Sisters and It’s all about exploring the monsters we see in society and within ourselves. The spiritual and historical essence living inside of Auchmar Manor was present.
The only requirement for the pieces— a clay component.
Auchmar Manor was the estate of Isaac Buchanan, a Scottish Canadian and political figure who played a key role in the economic and political development of Canada West. The two-storey, stuccoed brick manor house was designed in the Gothic Revival style and was completed in 1855.
The Manor is currently owned by the city of Hamilton, its designation under Ontario heritage laws highlights its importance as a cultural treasure in Hamilton.
The freezing air inside the manor seemed to amplify the eerie atmosphere, I immediately felt the fibres of my being come alive.
Visitors were greeted by a statue at the entranceway—an offering of the reflective journey ahead.
Ten women, each with a different perspective, had contributed to the Monster Project. Their art played with themes ranging from societal fears to personal demons.
“In light of recent events in our lives made me think about the monsters that surrounded us in our societies,” said Nikola Wojewoda, event orchestrator. “It was almost like a calling to make art with others feeling the same way as I was.”
The old building was full of life, and many of the community came out to explore the monsters within.
As I wandered through the manor’s halls, I came across artists proudly standing by their creations, ready to share their stories. Each piece seemed to come alive against the manor’s ancient backdrop.
Ward councillor John Paul Danko was among those who attended the exhibit. “It’s important to showcase historical buildings under the city’s protection. Auchmar Manor has so much historical relevance to Hamilton and the Monster Project fits in perfectly with the theme of the manor.”
From tooth fairies and biblical creatures to war and fables and even monstrous donuts, the Poor Sisters put on a show that forces you to think deeply about the monsters that live inside our heads and out in our societies.
The exhibit was a conversation—The Poor Sisters had created a space where past and present meet, forcing us to consider the monsters we’ve inherited and the ones we create ourselves.
Monsters, after all, come in many different forms, and within the walls of Auchmar Manor, we were reminded that they can also be confronted, understood, and transformed into art.
English