A local poppy project, spearheaded by John Short, has brought together artists from various regions in an effort to promote ongoing discussions and reflection on Remembrance Day. The initiative, known as Remembrance Every Day, tasked artists with crafting unique clay poppies, each adorned with a magnet for display purposes.
Motivated by his personal connection to remembrance, Short shared that his family history, with his grandfather serving in World War I and his father tragically losing his life in World War II, inspired the project’s inception. To expand the project’s reach, Short collaborated with the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery in Waterloo, resulting in a national showcase of the poppies at the gallery until December 11.
In cooperation with the Royal Canadian Legion to honor the trademarked poppy symbol, 22 artists participated in creating “poppy gardens” featuring hundreds of clay poppies. These installations can be found in various community spaces nationwide, including locations in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Montreal, and British Columbia.
One notable poppy garden is situated at Waterloo City Hall, where members of the Waterloo Potter’s Workshop meticulously crafted over 500 clay poppies for public enjoyment. Visitors are encouraged to take a poppy from these gardens and contribute online donations to support the Royal Canadian Legion.
Leading up to Remembrance Day, Short has witnessed an increasing demand for poppies, emphasizing the project’s impact in prompting continuous reflection on the significance of the day. Eekta Trienekens, president of the Waterloo Potter’s Workshop, highlighted the collaborative effort put into creating the poppies, showcasing a mix of hand-crafted pieces and those made using various techniques like the potter’s wheel or molds.
Trienekens expressed the sentiment that allowing individuals to take a poppy home adds an extra layer of beauty and personal connection to the project, fostering a deeper appreciation for the significance of remembrance beyond traditional observances.