Collingwood Creates – How Art Builds Community 

In this special collaboration between RATT.fm and the Town of Collingwood, host Dawson DeGraaf explores how creativity builds connection — turning heritage into inspiration and local artists into community catalysts.

Collingwood Creates: How Art Builds Community features three of the town’s creative voices whose stories capture the essence of a place where history, humanity, and harmony collide.

Episode Guests

Rick & Anke Lex — Heritage Visionaries & Artists

When a historic hotel faced demolition, Rick and Anke Lex saw potential for transformation. Their restoration of the Tremont Studios building not only preserved Collingwood’s architectural history but created a thriving home for artists. Their story proves that when you make room for art, you make room for connection.

Leah den Bok — Photographer & Storyteller

Leah den Bok’s portrait photography gives dignity to people experiencing homelessness, offering a human lens on compassion and creativity. Her work challenges us to see art as a bridge — connecting empathy with action and community with awareness.

Gracie Jet — Singer-Songwriter & Storyteller

With a voice that’s both haunting and hopeful, Gracie Jet brings raw honesty to her storytelling. Drawing on her background as a nurse and lifelong writer, her music blends reflective lyrics with a cinematic folk-pop sound that feels intimate and unguarded.

Over the past few years, Gracie has been steadily building her audience across Ontario — performing at festivals, intimate venues, and songwriter showcases while working toward her debut album, Survive. Her songs explore resilience, empathy, and the moments that connect us most deeply.