The Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood has long been known as a haven for artists, with its cheap rents attracting colorful characters to the area. One such resident is David Rogers, a leather artisan who has become a beloved staple in the community of Petit-Laurier. Residents and passerbys alike admire Rogers and his storefront, which serves as both an art gallery and custom leather atelier. His shop has become a focal point of the neighborhood, drawing people to the area for the unique experience it offers.
Rogers, who has been in the same building for over 20 years, is preparing to close his shop as the building has been sold and the new owner is tripling his rent. At 80 years old, Rogers is at peace with the change, despite the emotional toll it may take. He describes himself as a vagabond who has lived and travelled around the world before settling in Montreal. His work with exotic leathers and self-taught skills have garnered attention from big names, but he is most proud of his whimsical annual Easter egg contest, which reflects the personalities of his immediate neighbors.
Rogers’s impending closure is a symbol of the changing landscape of the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood. Rising rents are pushing out artists and small businesses that have long been the heart and soul of the area. Residents like Tressa Marré lament the loss of establishments like Rogers’s shop, which have brought a unique character to the neighborhood. The closure of his shop represents a broader trend of gentrification and commercialization in the area.
Despite the changes, Rogers remains optimistic about the future. He reflects on the radical changes he has experienced throughout his life and the new opportunities that may arise from this closure. He hopes to find a new home for his collection of Easter egg creations, ensuring that they can continue to bring joy to the neighborhood for years to come. His dedication to his craft and the community is a testament to the spirit of the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood, even as it undergoes transformation.
As the neighborhood evolves, residents and visitors will miss the unique charm and local flavor that establishments like Rogers’s shop have brought to the area. The sense of community and creativity that once defined the neighborhood is being threatened by rising rents and commercial development. The closure of Rogers’s shop serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting local artists and businesses in the face of rapid urban change. Despite the challenges, Rogers’s legacy as a beloved figure in Petit-Laurier will endure, leaving a lasting impact on the community he has called home for over two decades.
