Discover the Stained-Glass Windows of Yvonne Williams

Timmins

Experience Hosted by Nicola Alexander

1-2 hours • Hosted in English

What We’ll Do

We will explore the stained-glass windows of two well-known Canadian female artists, learn more about the commission, and reflect on the artwork.

I will greet you at the front door and welcome you into the space with a short introduction. I will briefly share the history of the building before turning our attention to the extraordinary stained-glass windows which are the work of two prominent Canadian artists: Yvonne Williams and Rosemary Kilbourn. After the presentation, there will be sufficient time to explore further – guests may wish to walk freely within the space and take photographs. Alternatively, they may choose to rest in quiet reflection, recording their impressions in a notepad or sketchbook.

We will gather at the end for discussion and sharing over light refreshment. My hope is that you will leave inspired, with a greater awareness of Timmins’ hidden cultural treasures.

Experience Setting

St. Matthews Cathedral is one of Timmins' oldest buildings but has been altered several times. The collection of contemporary stained-glass windows, installed between 1979-1986, are best appreciated inside the building - where sun and stained-glass meet to transform the interior into an explosion of colour and light.

What to Bring

Guests are encouraged to bring their camera (or phone) if they wish to take photographs. Alternatively, they may bring a journal or sketch book to record their impressions.

What’s Included

Light refreshment (cold water infused with blueberries / mint / lemon) will be served.

Environmental Features

No extreme sensory stimuli (e.g. bright lights, loud noises)

Other Details

Length

1-2 hours

Ages

Age 6+

Skill Level

Beginner

Activity Level

Light

Maximum Number of Guests

10

Meet your host, Nicola Alexander

Nicola Alexander is a built heritage specialist (BAS, B.Arch, M.Phil CBE) and artist (NOAA) with over twenty years’ experience, working in the built environment across diverse contexts - including South Africa, Namibia and more recently, Canada. She is actively involved in Timmins’ arts community, which has been her home since 2014. She is passionate about heritage and regards it as important to our understanding of place, relationships, and the stories we tell each other. Her experiences bring a unique perspective to our understanding of place, and the importance of heritage in finding meaningful connection.