Hillary House ‘Inspiration from a Space of Healing’, was a multisite exhibition on display at Hillary House National Historic Site and the Aurora Town Hall. The exhibition was curated in collaboration with the Aurora Historical Society, the Aurora Cultural Centre and sixteen Society of York Region (SOYRA) member artists.

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'Inspirations from a Space of Healing' was a process-based exhibition inspired by Hillary House National Historic Site. Built in 1862, Hillary House was used as a doctor’s practice and family residence for over 100 years.

 

Showcasing a significant collection of medical instruments, books, household furnishings, as well as a collection of personal objects from the historical families in residence, Hillary House is full of artifacts that trigger reflection and inspire deep contemplation.   

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Leading up to the exhibition, members from SOYRA were invited to Hillary House to engage with the space, its artifacts, and the stories of its past inhabitants. Meditating on the intersectional history of medicine and domestic life, artists were asked to respond to Hillary House’s unique position as a space of healing.  

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Participating SOYRA member artists included: George Keltika, Bill Lunshof, Karin Adams, Sharon Nielsen, Lucy Quin, Melinda Schnalzer, Linda Welch, Vikki Mikkola, Catherine Fairs, Christine Valentini, Kevin McBean, Hans Backer, and Carol Walthers.