Paige Seburn
Niagara Now/The Lake Report
As Trisha Romance stood surrounded by friends, family and admirers at the centre of Old Town in Niagara-on-the-Lake, it was clear that this moment was more than just a formal ceremony.
For those gathered, including prominent figures, the awarding of the key to the town was a heartfelt celebration of Romances’ profound influence on the community through her art.
The ceremony, filled with heartfelt tributes and warm embraces, was held on Sept. 15 and was a testament to the deep connection Romance has made with the town through her 40 years of artistic contributions.
Randy Hoak, town supervisor of Hamburg, N.Y., told the crowd that Romance’s early achievements and move to Niagara-on-the-Lake marked a pivotal career chapter.
He said these milestones show the lasting impact of her work.
Not only is she deeply connected to the community, but she’s connected to the town’s history as well.
“One thing never changes, and that’s the history of this town. This town is embedded so deeply into a rich history for our nation,” said Romance, in her speech.
At the ceremony, NOTL library board chair Daryl Novak announced the creation of the Trisha Romance Children’s Art Fund, established with a $10,000 donation to support art programs for children at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Public Library.
Novak said Romance’s enduring commitment to the arts has shown how important it is to nurture and encourage creativity in the next generation.
Her impacts aren’t just long-lasting — they’re also broad, said Janet Morrison from Sheridan College, recounting her influence on students and her creative contributions.
In her heartfelt speech, Romance captured the essence of her passion for art.
“Art is a superpower. It has the power to heal. It has the power to calm. It has the power to transport you. It has the power to bring contentment. And I have seen it time and time again. And that, that has been the basis of my love for art,” said Romance.
She said that her work holds both cultural and emotional significance. The beauty of Niagara-on-the-Lake inspires her, but it’s also the joy she sees in her family that sparks her creativity.
Even simple moments, like watching her children at the bakery, can turn into masterpieces.
“A certain moment had to happen in motherhood with them, before that could happen. And once that moment happened, I’d say, ‘Oh, there’s the painting,'” said Romance to the crowd.
One of her favorite aspects of the town — the Sentineal carriages, which she has cherished for decades — was a highlight of the ceremony for her. Arriving by horse and carriage, she said in her speech, was a special moment for her.
The ceremony concluded with a recognition of the town staff and volunteers who played a crucial role in organizing the event.
The emotional atmosphere intensified when Carmela and Onofrio Bonomo, longtime admirers of Romance’s work and avid promoters of the region on social media, approached her.
Bonomo shared a heartfelt embrace with Romance, reflecting the personal impact her art has had on their lives.
“I tell you, we’ve filled up the house with Trisha Romance paintings. We love it, we introduce our families and friends to it — we just enjoy every moment of it,” said Onofrio Bonomo. “They give us joy and inspiration.”
“We just couldn’t help but come here,” said Carmela Bonomo.
Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa, reflecting on the day’s significance, said he feels fortunate to be in the position to honour Romance’s contributions and is moved by the many stories of her positive influence on the community.
Zalepa said that the key to the town represents a special citizen who is known, trusted, and welcomed as if they were part of everyone’s home.
“I think if Trisha came to the door of anybody here in town, they would welcome her,” he said.
“I feel so lucky to be the mayor today,” he said.
During the ceremony, a new walking tour of Niagara-on-the-Lake was introduced, showcasing buildings featured in Trisha Romance’s paintings.
For more details and to download a PDF, visit niagaraonthelake.com/trisharomancecelebration.
