Canada Blooms was a great opportunity for me to be able to share with everyone the joy of Dry Stone Walling. What stood out for me at this show was the wide range of people showing interest. Every age, gender and nationality, all showing the same fascination and eagerness to learn more or simply admiring the beauty. It seems there are few things that can bring that wide range of diversity together in a common interest and that, in itself, was encouraging and intriguing to take part in. So why would building walls or other features of Dry Stone be so enticing to people? It is a technique used for thousands of years and not exactly something new and cutting edge. Like most things large groups of people enjoy, the reasons for their interest will be as varied as the individuals themselves. Personally, I find it just looks and feels right; both during the process and the final product. Defining that goes beyond words but if you take a moment to stand back and look or give it a go I think you may realize what I mean.
So there we were, building walls and arches with an audience both curious and, in some cases, sceptical. A lot of people returned from their meanderings to see what we had finished what else was being tried. When removing the arch supports, the crowds were so much fun to watch. The expressions went from unsure to having their doubts erased and their curiosity peeked. During the whole process, looking up and seeing the smiles and discussions happening in the crowds always put a smile on my face. Having the lady from Ireland compliment us on how lovely it was to see this being done here in Canada keeping the spirit alive was very uplifting. Seeing so many young people interested was equally encouraging and being at Canada Blooms allowed us the opportunity to expose people to Dry Stone Walling and take in their feedback and comments.
Besides the aesthetic appeal, building these features is like working with a giant puzzle. It is something that is hard to convey during a demonstration. You often find yourself thinking in a manner we seldom use when walling and suddenly you are in a zone where the world around seems to be of small consequence and there is nothing but you, the stone and your project. Let me tell you that is not a bad way to spend some time. One thing beginners sometimes forget is that they are building something that will last centuries and it is a very humbling experience. Sometimes you really need to just sit back and take in what you are accomplishing. Knowing what you have completed will be around for such time spans puts a real smile on your face and the sense of accomplishment really is uplifting.
The overwhelming response was sensational. It seems we lose sight of the older skills that are tried and tested. Ensuring that those skills are not lost and are enjoyed is all part of what we want to accomplish. In the process, look at the beauty that can be created. Next year at Canada Blooms look for us again! We will being doing something special, as always, that I personally hope will both entertain and inform you even more!