THUNDER BAY – A group of Westfort shops have come together with a local artist to transform the neighbourhood’s small business district into a winter wonderland.
A tradition that started with the former Salsbury Grill was embraced by 15 businesses along the main strip of Frederica Street this year, as artist Wendy Horner adorned shop windows with winter- and Christmas-themed window paintings.
Aaron Gillingham, who took over the grill and revamped it as The Sal in 2017, said it was one way the businesses could spread cheer during the COVID-19 pandemic, in lieu of usual holiday gatherings.
“It’s been a very challenging year to promote anything – you can’t encourage people to come together as a group, for the safety of our customers and employees,“ he said. “This is a nice way for people to enjoy that Christmas-y vibe without jeopardizing their health.”
Horner, a Westfort artist and muralist, had been painting the windows of the Salsbury Grill for years when Gillingham took it over. When she asked him about continuing the tradition, it wasn’t a hard decision.
“The customers love it, and she does amazing work,” he said.
Residents had the chance to experience the paintings in their full glory over the weekend, with participating businesses leaving their lights on throughout the evening Saturday and Sunday to showcase Horner's work, which ranges from serene landscapes to cheeky pop culture references.
For Gillingham, the initiative was one indication of the sense of community among Westfort business owners.
“It’s a small little business district, but it’s got a big heart,” he said. “Everyone’s really coming together, especially now in a year like this. There’s a lot of communication between the business owners.”