Art farm inspires nose job. Kind of (15 photos)

While artwork and farming may sound like an odd combination to most, one local farmer sees the two activities as a natural duo. 

"I really like the mix of art and the farm," said Robert Cuerrier, more commonly known as "Farmer Bob" to Sault Ste. Marie and area residents.

"After all I consider this farm to be art, just on a very large campus."

On Sunday afternoon at Mockingbird Hill Farm, Nancy Norman hosted an art show featuring her photography and paintings inspired by the surroundings she relocated north to view on a regular basis.

Norman moved to the Sault from Muskoka just over 10 years ago looking for new inspiration and a different direction.

"I love it here," said Norman. "The surroundings are so beautiful and it's a very inspiring place for someone interested in the arts to call home."

Since moving to the area, Norman has opened a Day Spa and took art courses at McKenna Studios.

Norman credits those classes - along with the natural beauty of our community - for the artwork she had on display.

Her work consisted of mostly scenic and abstract photography from around the region, along with paintings.

Norman visited places like Bellevue Park, Hiawatha Highlands, Mockingbird Hill Farm, St. Joseph Island and Whitefish Island to snap pictures with her camera and brush her canvas. 

Included in her displayed artistry was a painting of a local legend in his natural habitat.

"I'm very impressed," said Farmer Bob, shown above holding Norman's painting of him.

"She was also very kind. Nancy actually told me she conducted cosmetic surgery on me, as you can see she made my nose quite a bit smaller."

Farmer Bob hopes art shows like this one will lead to more at his farm - which Norman credits for inspiring some of her artwork.

"It's such a lovely, peaceful spot," said Norman. "You come here for an art show and you're surrounded by wildflowers and animals. It really is a perfect spot for a show like this."