Announcing a new partnership
Grand opening of the collection & vernissage: Sunday, September 21 from 3 to 5 pm
The Wakefield Mill Inn & Spa, a cherished landmark nestled in the heart of the Gatineau Hills, is ushering in a vibrant new chapter under the ownership of Daniel Nahon, his wife Joanna and their two children Julien and Sara. The family fell in love with the area's natural beauty and rich history when they acquired the Mill in December 2024.
Built in 1838, the historic Mill was transformed into the iconic 42-room Inn and Spa by previous owners Bob Milling and Lynn Berthiaume. The property includes gourmet restaurants, cozy bars, and well-appointed meeting spaces, a luxurious spa with outdoor water features…all designed to offer a relaxing and refined escape.
Now, the Wakefield Mill is infusing the space with local artistic energy through a new partnership with Galerie Old Chelsea, a non-profit gallery collectively owned by 10 professional artists from the region. The collaboration was sparked during a recent visit to the gallery by Daniel and his family, who were captivated by the quality and beauty of the artwork.
“The Mill has such historic significance, from the timeless beauty of the stone walls and the glass solariums overlooking the waterfalls, to the drive up the lane through the trees that instantly calms the senses, captivating you in nature” says Erin Thibault, curator for Galerie Old Chelsea. “The stone walls lend themselves perfectly to the beauty and vibrant colours of the artworks. The Galerie artists are thrilled to feature their work in this beautiful space that holds such an important place in our local history and community life.
According to Daniel Nahon, the art installed throughout all the public spaces at the Mill, enhances the guest experience and visual interest, all while celebrating the surrounding environment. “The art by Galerie Old Chelsea artists reflects the natural beauty of the Gatineau Hills. It’s as if it brings nature inside and they’ve enhanced this place beautifully,” said Daniel Nahon.
The curated collection, which includes paintings, sculptures and stained glass, is now featured throughout the Mill. This collaboration with Galerie Old Chelsea, a local business, reflects the Wakefield Mill’s continued dedication to supporting local culture and creating meaningful experiences for guests — whether through nature, history, and art.
The Wakefield Mill & Spa and the Galerie Old Chelsea artists are proud to invite the public to view this new collection at our vernissage on Sunday September 21 from 3 to 5 pm.
About the Wakefield Mill & Spa Located just 25 minutes from Ottawa, the Wakefield Mill & Spa offers a peaceful escape with luxury accommodations, fine dining, a full-service spa, and immersive natural surroundings. Originally a flour mill, the Mill combines heritage charm with contemporary comfort.
www.wakefieldmill.com ; Facebook : Moulin Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa
For more information, please contact Daphnée Brais at marketing@wakefieldmill.com
As a part of its 25th anniversary celebrations, the Galerie Old Chelsea held a fashion show to illustrate how art can be enjoyed all the time in many different ways.
Artists Donna Troop and Diane Lemire presented contemporary, wearable art, including scarves, vests, jackets, tunics, skirts and hats. The pieces are made with vibrant, hand-dyed fabrics, silks, wool, felt pieces, and found objects. Each piece is unique.
Jean-Pierre Doyon presented beautifully crafted leather bags, shoes, and hats. Nancy Sutton's bracelets, necklaces, and earrings capture the warmth of mineral and the light of semi-precious stones.
Fashion Show at the Galerie
 Painting in the garden |  Painting in the Garden |  The Omicrons |
|---|---|---|
 Dancers |  Craft Table |  Craft winners |
 Nicolas Irvin |  Flo Blake |  Carole Ménard Buteau |
 Becky Mason |
Galerie Old Chelsea continued its 25th anniversary celebration with a unique dining experience and exhibition to blend the artist’s palette with the gourmet palate.
Attendees enjoyed cocktails at the Galerie amid works of art that conveyed the artist's eternal fascination with food and drink. Drinks were followed by a delicious and artfully presented dinner at Les Fougères restaurant.
This sold-out event was a huge success and greatly enjoyed by all. Thank you for joining us to celebrate this momentous occasion!
Chelsea Days at the Galerie
Galerie Old Chelsea had a lot going on in the beautiful gardens behind Les Fougères restaurant during this year's Chelsea Days festival, including art, live music, and delicious refreshments from the restaurant.
In addition to hosting a special small-works art show, the Galerie's artists worked with visitors to create pieces of an artistic puzzle. This community art project was a big hit—thanks to all who participated!
The Galerie also held an artist contest. Each of the Galerie's artists created a painting based on a theme: "A Day in Chelsea", and visitors could win a prize by voting for their favourite painting. Congratulations to the lucky winner!
