Historical Value

This magnificent store has a splendid location on the base floor of the MacAulay house, which is a grand old home, built in limestone, approximately in 1830.

Some decades back, this store was a craft co-operative. Mostly, it showcased the work of all its exclusive members only,. They all used to live and work together in the regions adjoining Kingston. At that time, they also used to have an exchange of each others thoughts, creativity, and imagination powers. This way they would encourage each other. Many artistes came and went in this co-operative and thus it experienced closure, due to changing priorities and times.

Margaret Hughes And Her Work

Eventually, 1998 witnessed the partnership of Margaret Hughes, one of its original members being a ceramic artist, and Ellen Fraser, a famous jeweler, who was the last artist to join and be a part of Cornerstone. The advantage both of them had was common experiences in encountering the art. They selected work from everywhere, but sustained the presence of the local artisans.

Cornerstone is now reputed to be a genuine Canadian showcase, displaying the work of almost 150 artisans from all territories of Canada.

Margaret Hughes resigned from owning a store, and began to experience and enjoys her work in her private studio as well as by creating some beautiful paintings and pastels. Sometimes, she displays her effort at Cornerstone, and looks after a bright jewellery studio. Also, she juggles this by meeting up with personnel and the visitors at the store.

The staff comprises of a large number of women with distinguished and exceptional skills, and carries forward the co-operative’s creative aim of promoting the newcomer artists in an affable and warm atmosphere.