misery bay cards and postcards

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The songs on this album are inspired by the people and places I encountered during my artist residency with 4elements Living Arts on Manitoulin Island. They also represent the journey I’ve taken to heal from trauma, and the transformative power of going somewhere new to find yourself.  

Born from a glacier thousands of years ago, the Alvar ecosystem on Manitoulin is the only one of its kind in Canada. Picture flat rock, extending far along the shoreline, tiny holes embedded in it. These little depressions in the rock are homes to many species of mosses and algae, the only organisms that can survive the harsh climate of the area. They are exposed to the elements all year round - hot sun, winds, freezing temperatures, snow and rains. Every living thing that ekes out an existence here has had to carve out its own path and live through incredible challenges. 

For me, the Alvar is a teacher:  the very harshness of the ecosystem contributes to its beauty.  Having lived through multiple brain injuries causing me to live with disability, the Alvar inspires me in its capacity to embrace limitation.  It's a symbol of resilience - the drive to keep going no matter what life throws at you.

Thanks to Misery Bay Provincial Park, who allowed me to film this incredible place, and 4elements Living Arts with whom I did my artist residency.  Thank you also to everyone who collaborated on this song - Kathryn Merriam on piano, Tristan Murphy on drums, Elena Spanu on fiddle, and Chris Adriaanse on bass.