Kerry Walford

Wildwood’s beginnings can be traced back to 2015, to the day Kerry Walford and her husband Adam Peet, bought a 180-year-old house in Cayuga.  They envisioned the 19th-century home as an art gallery to display works by Kerry and other local creatives. After having their young daughter Clementine, Walford decided to pursue her passion for art full-time and formally opened up Wildwood Art Gallery and Studio. The home and gallery is a very inspiring space with large sun-filled windows, high ceilings, and old pine floors with lots of character.  The couple describes the house as having very positive energy and are happy to be able to share it with visitors and the community.

Kerry is a Canadian Landscape Painter living in Haldimand County.  She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from York University and her works depict the rural Canadian landscape in a playful yet peaceful manner.  She is inspired by nature and her paintings often reference the golden hour, trees, rolling fields, colourful skies, and country roads – all of which she can find close to home in Cayuga.

My adventures in nature help bring me into the present moment and fill me with a sense of wonder joy and calm,” says Walford.  “Through the painting process, I strive to share these experiences with my viewers.  My works are often recognized through my use of colour, rhythmic brushstrokes, sense of light, and atmospheric perspective.

People drive hours to attend exhibitions at the gallery, and the gallery’s children’s art classes and adult workshops are booked solid, and off-site paint nights fill up quickly.  Wildwood has partnered up with local businesses the Twisted Lemon and Concession Road Brewing Co. to host paint night-style classes regularly throughout the year.  As a response to the challenges of COVID-19 the gallery has put these in-person experiences on hold, however now offers many of these virtually hosting online painting tutorials and selling curated art kits online.

Soon after opening, other local creatives began approaching the gallery with creative ideas for using the beautiful space.  Yoga classes started when an instructor proposed the idea, and a local musician’s interest led to musical performances taking place. Although currently on hold – these experiences and more are expected to return to the gallery once it is safe to do so.

Kerry is truly passionate about her work and community, and feels blessed to be able to share what she loves with you.  She welcomes you to stop by the gallery on your next visit to Haldimand County (due to evolving restrictions be sure check website for hours and online opportunities).