Learn about the story behind the series
Bunkies & Small Cabin Series: A Nostalgic Retreat in Nature
Andrew D Milne Impressionistic Landscape Artist
When I was a child, we would cruise the Rideau Canal and the 1000 Islands in our old Richardson Cruiser, weaving through the winding waterways and marveling at the little bunkies tucked along the shores. These small cabins, hidden in unique spots, seemed almost magical—some perched precariously on cliffs, others nestled under the shelter of tall pines. Each one felt like it held its own story, a secret haven filled with laughter and the warmth of family memories.
For years, I have sketched these cabins as we moved past them. They fascinate me. The more time I spend studying them, the more I see the years and years of care that have gone into keeping these traditional spots alive—and for good reason. You can only imagine the number of songs sung, meals made, games played, and laughs shared within their walls. They are always whimsical, with shapes that only time and love could warp them into.
The term "bunkie" has its roots in Ontario, Canada, where it evolved from "bunkhouses"—small cabins constructed by farmers to accommodate seasonal workers. In the 1960s, cottage owners in the Muskoka region began building similar small cabins to provide extra sleeping space for guests, affectionately referring to them as "bunkies." Over time, they became cherished retreats, providing an intimate escape from the hustle of everyday life. Their small size and ability to blend seamlessly into their surroundings made them part of the landscape itself.
Today, many of these bunkies remain, grandfathered into locations where modern regulations would never allow them to be built. Yet no one wants to lose them. They seem to call back to a time when life was slower and simpler, almost like small time capsules or private moments waiting to be captured and cherished.
What I love most about painting these bunkies is the connection they create. Many people who collect my work have a story of a bunkie they’ve stayed in or say it reminds them of a place they used to visit. There’s a special kind of magic in those memories—a shared appreciation for these tiny cabins and the joy they bring. Through my art, I hope to preserve the spirit of these special places, sharing the stories they tell and the feelings they evoke. If you have a bunkie story, I would love to hear it.
Warm regards,
Andrew D. Milne