On Organic Communities and Life

While forever the gypsy, I had occassion some years back to live in the heart of the Kensington Market community. It was then a rich texture of artists, musicians and philosophers, street people, squeegie kids and punks, kids, faithful dogs,  happy tourists and regulars, all nestled in a quaint European setting of cafes, romance and song.

This was and is a community decidely autonomous even though most are poor, remaining free outside of agency, drop-in or social working. They eke out a living playing music on the street or in cafes, selling thier art and craft, and they take care of each other wherever however they can. This is a place of celebration of each other and of life, and today, we celebrate Kensington artist Tim Radford who I knew and considered a good friend.

Though we held some labels in common, like ‘poor’ and ‘mad’, we rarely spoke of ‘madness’ and Tim only to say that  his informed doctor allowed for his indivual autonomy to reign, and medication only in concert with his lifestyle, of food, drink, friends and song,  and an occasional spliff. It was permitted to work. Tim thrived.  There was nothing more that needed to be said. There were no social workers, no drop-ins…just community and in it Tim, both creating it and thriving in it. Tim Radford was a happy man. And so were we.

Of  his Resting in Peace I am certain; of his power to heal, even now, especially now, I am convinced.

Tim’s artwork is still displayed at the old Kim’s Cafe  now Lola’s in Kensington Market, on Kensington Ave

fellow artist rendering of Tim Radford

below see some of the graffiti art now dawning the walls of Lola’s

Above Lola’s there’s an apartment which Tim used to share with friends. His was the front room with large floor to ceiling windows. If you stood close, you had the sensation the whole market was rising up to meet you. Tim must’ve loved it.

Lola’s has live entertainment many nights thru the week. You can sing along to old John Prine tunes , see and hear Brian Cober,  Johnny Boots and many more. Sitting on the patio staring out onto the trees and sunset over Kensington, with some sweet sounds  in the background, you’ll feel like you have really known summer away.

Sitting on the patio at the old Kim’s and new Lola’s staring into the trees, their leaves, watching the falling sun dance upon them up and down the street all  with the sweet sounds of one or two such as Brian Cober behind you, you will be sure that you have known summer in all its splendor. Brian Cober, a long time regular musician at Lola’s (Kims Cafe), as well as the many other musicians and friends who still gather and celebrate each other together, poor wealthy or in between, have made and make this unique community what it is and while suffering the ravages of gentrification this writer hopes the best in and of us will always somehow remain.

For a live interview with Tim Radford, please visit Bellevue Park TV (link below), and for more live videos of this  artists and musicians grassroots community. In this interview, Tim discusses poverty and Mike Harris.

Mary Fish

http://www.youtube.com/user/BellevueParkTV?feature=mhum#p/u/0/st7j3yfq5Jw

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