Opening ‘the Village Collective’ on Main Street Sparta was an easy transition for Canadian Artist Shelley McVittie, who’s journey began with a little gallery inside the village’s antique shop back in the late 1980s. ‘The Village Collective’ is a celebration of the artistic spirit of Sparta, reflecting high quality Canadian craftsmanship, and is quickly becoming quite the gathering place where local artisans can showcase and sell their work in a boutique style setting.
“Our members are what make us one of a kind,” says McVittie. “We are a very eccentric bunch specializing in various mediums and styles, and the creativity among our group is electric!”
Over 10 different artisans showcase their work at The Village Collective offering a mix of artisan jewellery, fine art, pottery, quilts, natural body products and photography, stirring in casual cotton fashion wear, organic herbs and spices, gourmet pizzas along with the dash of Tarot Card and Psychic readings, and topped off with a few resident ghosts.
McVittie also considers the Village of Sparta to be an important member of the collective. Antique stores, quaint little gift shops, art galleries and a tea room line the streets of a place seemingly untouched by the hands of time. Sparta is home to a unique combination of a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant business community that works tirelessly to preserve its historic locations.
“Finding a small village gem such as this in these times of big box stores has become increasingly difficult,” explains McVittie. “Coming into Sparta will quickly dispel you of any notion that the historic and charming streets of southern Ontario have long been eradicated.”
In addition to providing a source of eclectic products and services, ‘the Village Collective’ is also a hub of activity hosting art workshops, psychic events and the popular Sparta Scarecrow Fall Festival in September. In the spirit of traditional fall fairs the world over, the Sparta Scarecrow Fall Festival brings together city and country folk alike to enjoy homemade products, arts and crafts, music and the pure want of a gentle autumn day in the country.
‘The Village Collective’ is open Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays Noon until 4 p.m. For more information visit ‘the Village Collective’ website or stop in for a taste of the whimsical and to meet the talented artists and artisans first hand.
