What started out as a hobby has turned into an annual ritual – and what Tim Murton hopes will become a great success and help brand Elora as the destination for Halloween.
Murton, known to many as “the monster guy,” has been building monsters out of tissue paper, cheesecloth, wire and glue for 16 years.
“For me it’s lighting up the dark side and having a giggle,” he said.
Murton has some new ideas to share that he believes will benefit the community. He is asking the community to show its support by purchasing, renting or sponsoring one of his pieces bound for display on Metcalfe, Geddes and Mill streets.
“Let’s employ art as a vehicle for economic development. Halloween provides an opportunity to attract visitors between summer’s end and Christmas, thereby supporting local businesses during a period of visitor shortfall,” Murton added.
Although no help will be denied and is very much appreciated, storage space after the show is limited, so purchasing is preferable, he noted.
“If Elora is going to grow, let’s send out the right signals to entrench her reputation as a unique artistic community,” said Murton.
“There has been encouraging support from the Elora BIA, independent storekeepers, local residents and the Municipality of Centre Wellington. The aim is to build momentum, plan and get all our monsters in a row to finally make this event the success I believe it can be.”
The show will take place in downtown Elora, where many storefronts such as Sweet Distractions, The Village Olive Grove, Pod Design, Elora Pottery and Box Social are already dressing up and showing their Halloween spirit.
There will be at least 60 monsters on display throughout Elora, Murton noted.
“It’s not just the territory of artists, it’s something that should be enjoyed by everyone, especially children growing up in a corporate world. It’s all about having the courage to have fun.”
Murton and volunteers are currently refurbishing the installations at his home located at 238 Melville Street in Elora. He encourages the community to stop by and pick one out. Prices for the monsters start at $300.
“I understand the financial restraints many merchants are experiencing,” he said. “If you cannot afford a piece you can help by using your marketing resources to promote. You can enter into the spirit of the event by dressing up a building or storefront or realize your own creativity by putting on your own event. The time to plan is now.”
The show will consist of a walking tour and several different events put together by participants involved in the Halloween celebration.
There are no specific dates yet. Dates will be posted on Tim Murton’s Twilight Zoo Facebook page or online at twilightzoo.ca. For more information or any inquiries about how to get involved, email info@twilightzoo.ca.
