I’m well known for my love of Coca-Cola. In fact, it has become something of a ‘legend’. Most don’t realize it was intentional from the start. As I began my professional art career, I felt I needed something as a hook to make my name memorable. I decided to associate my identity with one of the most recognizable brands in the world. There was no formal agreement or endorsement; I was and still am too small for that. Instead, I made a purposeful decision to always have a Coke handy as I did media interviews or meetings in my studio. I often wore Coke T-shirts, hats and sneakers. I purchased an antique Coke machine and kept it well stocked. Rather than purchase my Coca-Cola from the local store, I had the giant Coke truck deliver to my studio. They didn’t come often, but folks took notice without a doubt. I also began to collect Coke paraphernalia, which was available everywhere I travelled. As I began travelling across Canada and the USA to paint historical murals, I asked that, as part of my contract, they supply a cooler of ice-cold Cokes for my enjoyment. I made a point of sharing them with all who visited the mural projects. On occasion, my clients would contract a local Coca-Cola bottler who would help sponsor the murals and also happily provide a ton of unique swag for my collection. It wasn’t long before my clients would send me packages from all over the world where they travelled. Each time they saw an unusual Coke bottle or display, they would think of me… and so my collection and the ‘legend’ would grow. When we moved to Yarrow and built our new studio, my Coca-Cola collection numbered more than 1,500 pieces of memorabilia. There was much more than I could display. As we began to build samples and put them on display, I would tuck away a little more Coca-Cola items. Eventually, I decided to sell off the collection (to a very happy collector) and only keep a few items of special sentimental value. Amazingly, my plan had worked beyond belief, and my Coca-Cola 'legend' persists to this day.
Sweet treat
This morning, as Chris & I made our way through Gatwick Airport to prepare for our long flight home, I was looking for a light snack to pick me up. The big time difference and jet lag were definitely wearing on me. I was delighted to see a Krispy Kreme donut shop. My thoughts immediately went back to Matt’s and my trip to Tokyo last year. He often seems to need to be my conscience in my food choices (through genuine concern, I am sure). As always, I wish to remind him that I am a man of moderation and am not hooked on this kind of food or Coca-Cola, for that matter. I could easily quit if I wished to, but I don’t yet. :). I did indulge in a Krispy Kreme and Coke - just for him. And I enjoyed it too! The sweet treat was the perfect way to wrap up my epic trip to England!
End of chapter one and beginning of a grand adventure
Tulley’s Farm fall program has three very different modes. During the day, 'Pumpkin Fest' is all about pumpkins as far as the eye can see - 1.5 million of them- with many wonderful, colourful arrangements and displays. Thousands of guests wander the grounds, enjoying a wide variety of food and drink, music, selfies, and hundreds of wheelbarrows filled with prized, handpicked pumpkins to take home. In the evening, during 'Pumpkin Nights', the magical displays are beautifully lit, with additional decorative lighting and displays along a forested path. Just down the road is Tulleys second gate called 'Shocktoberfest', which opens each evening. This park has a totally different vibe, much edgier, bolder and much louder. Thousands of mainly adult guests come for this experience. Both farms operate flawlessly, with professional, caring, and friendly staff. Behind the scenes, out of sight of the partying guests, hundreds of skilled staff make it all work seamlessly. Over the last three days, I have been privileged to get a rare look at all aspects of the amazing business, both front and back of house. In the process, I have learned much more about the fascinating business of operating an agro-tourism farm. I head back to Canada tomorrow, but our exciting adventure with this wonderful British farm has just begun. Stay tuned…
