This feature was first published in UnFolding’s print issue of April 2009.

Christine Tremblay is the executive director of Arts Ottawa East, an organization she volunteered to set up 20 years ago when her 12-year-old son was asked to leave the only art class he could find because some of the adults weren’t comfortable with a youth in their midst.

What is your present state of mind?

Excited, energized and exhausted, all at the same time, as (Arts Ottawa East) prepares to move into our new home at the Shenkman Arts Centre.

What is your biggest fault?

Wanting to try everything and never being able to say no.

Where is your ideal place to live?

Provence, the mountains, our cottage. Ideal is a frame of mind that changes as we change.

When were you happiest?

With family, close friends and in the out-of-doors.

Who is your favourite historical figure?

Lester B. Pearson.

What human quality do you most admire?

Compassion and humility.

What is the most over-rated human virtue?

Virtues by their very nature are not over-rated. However, egos can be.

Who is your favourite fictional character?

Don Quixote.

What was your greatest misfortune?

Losing my mother.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Stay true to yourself.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Travelling.

What is your favourite journey?

Gliding away from the dock on a solo paddle in the early hours of the morning.

What is your greatest regret?

Not being able to follow through on all my good intentions.

What talent would you most like to have?

To be a piano virtuoso.

What is your most treasured possession?

My mom’s engagement and wedding rings.

What male quality do you most admire?

Honesty, sensitivity and a sense of humour.

What female quality do you most admire?

The ability to be genuine and to care.

What is your motto?

Live the moment.

Art has the potential to…..?

Change your life, if you let it unleash your inner creativity.

What, if anything, scares you about the creative process?

Nothing: let yourself go!