Visual Arts in the
Cape Breton Economy

Artist ~ Thorne Morrow

During an interview conducted with the local Sydney artist Thorne Morrow , it was discovered that he is originally from Montreal. His attraction to Cape Breton twenty- eight years ago was nothing more than as a tourist. At that time his accomodations consisted of a van . So , what made him stay? " Well winter was coming on , and I was asked to teach art at Argyle School...so I stayed."

Morrow is a self- taught painter who was never exposed to the arts in a formal school setting . The only problem he faces as an artist in this community is that his gallery is in a bad location. Thorne Morrow is located on the Louisbourg Highway , a major route to the Fortress of Louisbourg. So , one would think this is an excellent spot to grasp the majority of tourists. However , as Thorne explains , "the speed zone is such that cars just zoom by." If 100% of your income comes from your art work ,as Thorne's does, this small problem is magnified. The breakdown of his income is derived 50% from tourists and 50% from locals.

The economic impact of doing his work in the area is small. He buys supplies such as paints and brushes locally (S.O.S.), but purchases frames and matts off the island. He displays his own work in his gallery, having had a few displayed in local restaurants. He also does commissioned work for local people. He notes some of the major changes in the area as being the new UCCB Art Gallery . Thorne also enjoys being showcased at the local IODE Art Exhibition in the Fall of each year. "It generates lots of interest and there are a lot of sales . The volunteers also create a lot of publicity, and word of mouth is well established here."