Wild Rose Farm: A Home for Artists and Nature Lovers | Written by Camila C.
Nestled in the countryside, Wild Rose Farm has been a special place for Catherine Carpenko and her family since 1984. When Catherine and her husband bought the farm, it was because they thought it would be a great spot to raise their kids. Which they were right about- their children grew up there, surrounded by nature and creativity. Catherine and her husband, who had a background as builders, renovated the whole house themselves. Catherine even designed part of it. Behind the main house, there’s a small building that Catherine uses as a dance studio, where she used to teach dance lessons.
Before moving to the farm, Catherine was a professional dancer and actress in Toronto. Her whole life she has been surrounded by art and artists, and said she wanted to keep it that way. That’s why she decided to open her farm to artists who need a place to stay and work. “I wanted artists around me,” Catherine explains. “I have always been an art supporter, and I believe that the arts are what makes communities healthy and economically successful.” Artists usually come to stay at Wild Rose Farm one at a time, but from time to time they’ll come in groups as well. At the farm, they get a chance to enjoy the countryside and have a space to practice their craft.
“Art is a courageous act, and we need to support the people with enough courage to do it… it’s something that helps promote positive change in the world.”
Over the past 20 years, many artists have left their mark on the farm; the house is filled with beautiful artwork from people who have stayed there. Catherine feels strongly about supporting artists. She says that to her, “Art is a courageous act, and we need to support the people with enough courage to do it… it’s something that helps promote positive change in the world.” She believes that while many things in the world are falling apart, artists are creating something new. By giving them space at Wild Rose Farm, she’s helping them do their important work.
Wild Rose Farm isn’t just about art- it’s also about taking care of the environment. For over 25 years, the whole property has been powered by alternative energy. They were one of the first places in Ontario to sign up with Bullfrog Power, a company that provides renewable energy. They also use geothermal energy to heat and cool the buildings, and they’re currently installing solar panels. When asked what growth looks like to her, Catherine simply said, “It looks like sharing what I already have.” Wild Rose Farm is more than just a farm; it’s a special place where art, nature, and sustainability come together. This place reflects Catherine and her family’s dream of creating a space that fosters creativity while also caring for the environment.