West Queen West was jumping on this chilly night with the opening of a store and gallery beside each other.

I stopped in to investigate the Drake Hotel General Store to confirm that yes indeed, it is “a curiously edited shop catering to the sensible and the hedonistic, the traveller and the neighbour”, as promised on their website. With items from candy to clothing, the old-time shop has everything. I particularly appreciated the collection of items from Shared, a socially-conscious Toronto brand that donates fifty percent of profits to charity.

Then I went next door to Median Contemporary to see cutting edge works from Mat Durrant, Markus Heckman, and Peter Todd.

Naturally, I spoke with the gallery owners. Kal Mansur told me, “Median Contemporary is based on the concept of an art gallery where artists and the public interact directly with one another.”

Rui Pimenta added, “It is our goal to provide a supportive atmosphere in which creative and critical dialogue can occur and professional development can be encouraged.”

Not only did I get to appreciate good art, but I was treated to some sparkling conversation with Susie Love, Christine Papadakos from jewellery store Mink, and Laura Antonik and Karen Cleveland from FASHION.

With so many social engagements on my calendar, I am starting to feel the holiday spirit. Toronto is beautiful when I can sip some wine and watch the snow fall through a gallery window.