John Scott
Special to The Lake Report

Queenston’s Willowbank School of Restoration Arts last week celebrated 15 years of providing excellence in education to those studying heritage restoration.

The school’s board, staff and students held a reception Sept. 21 to mark the occasion.

As the only school of its kind in Canada, Willowbank offers hands-on experiential learning in restoration disciplines.

One of its most compelling aspects is the gradual restoration of the historic Willowbank mansion through its use as a “living lab.”

Graduates of the program have moved on to successful careers in various aspects of heritage restoration. In fact, a number of grads are working now on the restoration of the Parliament Buildings.

Earlier this year, following a tour of Willowbank, renowned Niagara-on-the-Lake artist Marilyn Cochrane offered to develop a painting of the mansion highlighting its 200-year history.

After immersing herself in the Willowbank archives, Cochrane worked through the summer and emerged with an exceptional impression of the mansion and its living history.

In her remarks at the reception, she underscored how she had been “captivated” by Willowbank and all that it represents.

Her stunning work was presented to Victoria Broer, who represents the Bright-Urban family on the board of directors and whose family foundation facilitated the original purchase of the estate and has continued to provide operational support.

In accepting the painting, Broer noted, “This is an incredible piece of work and my family is honoured to have played a role in Willowbank,” adding that “this amazing work belongs here at the mansion.”

As a result of her generosity, Willowbank visitors will be able to enjoy the painting as it will be prominently displayed in the Bright Parlour.

The first and only full-sized print of Cochrane’s work was presented to Dr. Elizabeth Oliver-Malone, who has been steadfast in her volunteer and financial support of Willowbank since its origin.

A NOTL resident, Oliver-Malone still serves as the archivist and librarian for the facility. She remarked that it was the pleasure of her and her late husband to assist in assisting with both the school and the preservation of the mansion.

The final word goes to Cochrane, who remarked that she is “honoured to be a part of Willowbank.”

And, indeed Marilyn, we are honoured to have you.

John Scott is vice-chair of the Willowbank board of directors.