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The Hearth of the Soul: Finding Ourselves in the Winter's Embrace

There’s a particular quality to the light in Montreal in November & December. The sun, low and hesitant, casts long blue shadows by mid-afternoon. As the first snow settles on the cobblestones of Plateau and the festive lights twinkle against the short days, a quiet, collective shift occurs. We move indoors, both literally and figuratively. The bustling energy of summer restaurant terraces and cyclists season gives way to a different rhythm—one of introspection and the deep, primal urge to nest.


Artist Francois Lacas, Fin de jour, 16”x 20”, Huile , $650
Artist Francois Lacas, Au crépuscule, Huile sur toile, 16" x 20" - A Vendre $650

This isn't just a Montreal phenomenon. Across the northern regions of the world, from Scandinavia to Japan, from the Canadian to the Scottish Highlands, the long, cold nights of winter trigger a similar instinct. It’s a time to turn inward, to surround ourselves with the things that nourish our souls: the warmth of a well-loved armchair, the solace of a captivating book, the comfort of a simmering stew, and the silent dialogue we have with a piece of art hanging on our wall.


Artiste Francois Falardeau, Domter ses peurs, 24x19cm, $ 250
Artiste Françoise Falardeau, Dompter ses peurs, 24 x 19 cm - A Vendre $250

The Universal Urge to Nest: Our Inner Hearth.

Why is this feeling so universal in the north? The answer is etched in our very biology. As the world outside becomes dormant, we are called to create a world within. Our homes become our sanctuaries, our "hearths" in the most profound sense.


The Comfort of Art: In the muted winter palette, we crave colour and meaning. We hang a vibrant painting that transports us, or we light a beautifully crafted candle whose flickering flame becomes a living sculpture. Art becomes a focal point for our wandering thoughts, a catalyst for daydreams and internal reflection when the outside world is asleep.

Nataly Cloutier, Portrait d’une certaine âme, 20”x20”, acrylique, $450
Artist Natalie Poulin, Portrait d’une certaine âme, 20”x20” - A Vendre -$450

The Solace of Books: A stack of books by the sofa is the ultimate winter luxury. They are portals to other worlds, other minds, and other summers. The act of reading is a deeply introspective one, allowing us to explore vast inner landscapes while physically nestled in our cozy nook.

Book: The Mystery of Pinewood Manor by George Simon. Too FAT Too LOUD Too AMBITIOUS by Devina KAUR
Books: The Mystery Of Pinewood Manor by George Simon. TOO FAT TOO LOUD TOO AMBITIOUS By Devina KAUR

The Nourishment of Comfort Food: This is more than just eating; it's a ritual of warmth. The scent of fresh baked bread, and ragoût de boulettes filling a Montreal kitchen, A warm hot chocolate, or tea—they are deep comfort. They are a form of self-care, a way to literally internalize warmth and security.


Image of hot chocolate and a book in front of a fire
Warm soothing hot chocolate

This winter, as you feel the pull to draw the curtains, light a candle, and lose yourself in a painting or a novel, remember that you are part of a vast, northern chorus. From Scandinavia to Canada and all the northern regions of the world you are participating in an ancient, cross-cultural ritual of introspection and self-preservation. It is in these quiet, nested moments that we often hear our own thoughts most clearly. So, embrace the darkness outside. It’s the perfect canvas for lighting the fire within.


How do you like to nest during the winter? Share your favourite cozy traditions in the comments below.


On December 20th from 7pm to 10 pm Join us here at Galerie d'Art Emergence for an evening of warm hot chocolate and Introspection as we explore Art and liturature together.

PLEASE RSVP - (Please include your name, contact information and number of people in your party.)

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