Unique Muskoka August

explains. She credits Rogers with being the
driving force behind the formation of the
Tobin Island School of Fine Art. The art
group has had three children’s books
published: Chucky the Lonely Inukshuk in
2009; Larry the Loon in 2011; and Under
Your Nose in 2014. A fourth book is
underway.
Regular sessions at the island art studio
have become a staple of Susan’s summer life.
“Our work revolves around nature and
especially the beauty of Muskoka,” Susan
explains. “We are lucky to be able to work
in such a beautiful place.”
The Tobin Island artists were the 2012
recipients of the Robert Bateman Award for
outstanding contribution to conservation
awareness through artistic expression.
Interestingly, Bateman was Susan’s art
teacher at the Lord Elgin High School in
Burlington, ON, where she was raised. They
reconnected after 50 years when Bernie
made a call and asked Bateman if he would
do the forward for Larry the Loon. Family
friend and veteran cartoonist Andy Donato
contributed as a guest artist.
“As I got more involved up here with the
Muskoka Chautauqua Foundation and as
Susan seemed to be driving here more
frequently, it made more and more sense to
Above: The family
gathers together
as often as
possible at the
cottage, soaking
up the sun and
enjoying the
water.
Left: Tired of
renting cottages
over the years,
the Gosevitz
family was
thrilled to finally
have a piece of
paradise to call
their own.
buy a place,” says Dr. G, as Gosevitz is
affectionately known.
Susan adds, “Muskoka was just drawing
us in.” She muses, “When you come from
the fast-paced city environment, Muskoka
August 2016 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 65