A breath of fresh art: Immerse into creative art and cultural experiences
Art has a way of drawing us in, whether it’s the bold strokes of a painting, the intricate detail of a sculpture, or the magic of a live performance. Across South Eastern Ontario, you’ll find countless opportunities to immerse yourself in creative expression, from galleries and studios to public art walks and cultural events. Are you an aspiring artist or looking for a fresh way to experience the region then this guide will take you through some of the best art and culture experiences waiting to be discovered.
Prince Edward County
If you’re exploring the artistic side of Prince Edward County, make sure to stop by ANDARA Gallery in Bloomfield. Since opening its doors in 2019, this contemporary art space has become a must-see destination for art lovers and collectors alike. The gallery is home to the striking encaustic sculptural paintings of Andrew Csafordi and the captivating fine art photography of Tara Wilkinson, creating a dynamic blend of visual storytelling.
Open year-round from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., ANDARA Gallery offers a relaxed and welcoming environment where visitors can immerse themselves in the local art scene. You’ll find everything from thought-provoking exhibitions to hands-on workshops, like encaustic painting and sketchbook graffiti, where you can tap into your own creativity.
Located just off Highway 62, it’s an easy stop while you’re exploring nearby attractions like Sandbanks Provincial Park (seasonal) or the charming villages of Picton, Bloomfield, and Wellington. For seasoned collectors or for those simply looking to experience art in a new way, ANDARA Gallery is an experience you won’t forget.
Visit Wellington and the BAILA Quartet Malamatina, which is part of the BIGLAKE 2025 Series and Events in Prince Edward County. This special event will take place on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. The guitar quartet is known for their “immensely colourful, lyrical, and expressive playing” (Laura Snowden); they aim to connect with new audiences through a range of activities, commissioning new compositions, arranging pieces, and collaborating across artistic disciplines. Their programme BAILA, which means "dance,” is a vibrant celebration of global rhythms and dance, featuring music by Astor Piazzolla, Phillip Houghton, Clarice Assad, and the world premiere of a new work by Kalaisan Kalaichelvan.
For more information, including ticket prices and times, please visit the website.
Base31 in Prince Edward County is a cultural hub on a historic Second World War air training base in Picton, offering art galleries, studios, and performance spaces. Visitors can explore Side x Side Studios and Melt Studio and Gallery, featuring works from local and international artists. A highlight event is David R. Maracle and Friends: A Celebration of 40 Years in the Arts & Music Industry on March 22, 2025. The renowned Mohawk artist will launch his limited-edition vinyl album, The Path to Totality, honouring Indigenous children who attended residential schools. Held at the Sergeants Mess Hall, an intimate 170-seat venue, the event will feature special guest appearances. Tickets range from $39 to $59, plus fees and taxes. Click here for tickets.
Lennox & Addington
Looking for some one-on-one art tutoring? Adult and kids’ classes, as well as small groups, are held in French and English at A Loveleigh Place in Napanee. Owned and operated by Leigh McCarthy, this place is rooted in Leigh’s passion for learning and sharing skills. With over 20 years of experience as a teacher (Grades 1 through 12) and artist, Leigh’s journey has taken her from Canada to Thailand, Qatar, Tanzania, and Japan. Throughout her career, she has emphasized the importance of understanding her students as individuals—tailoring her teaching to meet their unique interests and learning styles. Guided by a growth mindset and a focus on differentiation, Leigh continues to inspire students to reach their learning goals, fueled by the joy of being part of their educational journey.
At The Hive in Bath, visitors can enjoy a variety of creative opportunities. Members have access to the studio space, where they can bring their artistic visions to life. The gallery showcases a diverse collection of artwork, including paintings, photography, jewelry, and more, with new displays regularly available for viewing from Monday and Wednesday to Saturday before 4 pm (hours may vary). The Hive also offers art classes for all skill levels, from seasoned artists to beginners, with workshops in painting, drawing, and photography designed to help participants develop their skills and unleash their creative potential.
Bay of Quinte
A visit to the Belleville Public Library and John M. Parrott Art Gallery is a must-stop to see some upcoming exhibits. “Change & Challenge: Migration” is a mixed media display by Lynda Todd from March until April 2. Also during this time will be a display, “Pareidolia: Pattern and Perception” by Carl Weins. From April 10 to May 7, enjoy “Impossible Conversations,” a mixed media show by local high school students.
Some upcoming shows at Gallery 121 in Belleville include The 2025 Early Spring Show, “Pulp Fiction,” from March 11 to April 19. Meet guest artists Annette Vlieg and Mark Hinan with featured member artist Daniel Forbert on Saturday, March 15, from 2 to 4 p.m.
The “Thru the Lens” gallery show and sale will take place until April 5, hosted by the Belleville Art Association in Belleville as part of the gallery series.
Watch for Wendy Capp’s show at These 4 Walls in Trenton. Wendy is an emerging visual artist from Port Hope, Ont., who has been painting since 1997 and recently began exhibiting her work. Inspired by the Canadian landscape, flora and animals, she primarily creates acrylic paintings on canvas. Wendy’s process involves breaking down images into colours, shapes and vivid lines, often using photos taken by herself or people she knows to create unique scenes. Her deep connection to Canada is evident in her one-of-a-kind pieces, which reflect her love for the natural beauty of the country.
Kingston
A learning opportunity will be held on March 20, with Bruce Kuwabara, a founding partner at KPMB Architects, who will present a lecture at Grant Hall (43 University Ave.) from 6 to 7:30 p.m. This free event, open to all, will explore the intersection of architecture, art and community through several of Kuwabara’s recent projects, including his work on Agnes Reimagined, the new building for the Agnes Etherington Art Centre, which is currently under construction at Queen’s University.
Throughout his career, Kuwabara has used architecture to understand societal, cultural, environmental and economic issues, leading to a practice rooted in integrated design thinking. His work addresses climate change, diversity, equity and inclusion, exploring how architecture can act as a catalyst for reimagining the world around us. This lecture is part of the 2025 Frances K. Smith Lecture in Canadian Art. Kuwabara is one of Canada’s most influential contemporary architects and a leader in architectural design and sustainability.
How about a walking art tour in Kingston? Meander the streets and enjoy the City of Kingston Arts Walk This vibrant public art scene is a self-guided tour that can be enjoyed on foot, by bicycle, car, or public transportation. The tour showcases both new and existing public art, including works from the City’s Public Art Program and the Civic Collection. The Arts Walk spans a variety of locations across Kingston, from the waterfront at Lake Ontario Park to Douglas Fluhrer Park, the downtown core, Williamsville, and even suburban and rural areas like the INVISTA Centre and YGK Airport. It's a great way to experience the city's artistic landscape. Learn more and find the locations on the Arts Walk map. You can also find printed Arts Walk postcards at City Hall.
Talk a walk to Martello Alley and enjoy the outdoor exhibit in downtown. Martello Alley is an art-themed historic alley in downtown Kingston. Representing numerous artists, Martello Alley is a gallery where you can find original and printed artwork as well as a place to meet the artists and see their work in progress. This is an artist collective with a common interest in bringing great art at great value to residents and visitors to Kingston in a fun a friendly atmosphere.
Gunguo Art & History Farm, located at 1414 Unity Rd in Glenburnie, is a unique cultural destination that combines art and history on a historic 100-acre farmstead. Founded by Gillian Kupakuwana and William Suk, the farm showcases a vast collection of African gemstone sculptures, primarily from Zimbabwe, alongside Canadian artworks. Visitors can explore over two kilometres of sculpture trails featuring diverse pieces, from large figurative works to abstract forms, all set against the picturesque backdrop of a traditional Canadian farm. The farm also offers guided tours, carving workshops with award-winning Zimbabwean sculptor Stanley Mutanga, and opportunities to meet the artists. Open by appointment only, Gunguo Art & History Farm provides an immersive experience that celebrates the fusion of African and Canadian art in a serene rural setting. Book a sculpture experience.
1000 Islands Gananoque
The Gananoque Arts Network (GAN) is a dynamic and inclusive community organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts in Gananoque. The group is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for artists and art enthusiasts of all backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, ability, gender, or sexual orientation. Committed to nurturing creativity and expression, GAN offers a variety of opportunities for individuals to engage with the local arts scene.
Throughout the year, GAN hosts workshops, studio tours, exhibitions, and cultural initiatives such as Ontario Culture Days. The network also welcomes artists and supporters as members, offering an annual membership that includes access to exclusive updates through their mailing list.
Visitors can also explore the Noel Bullock Gallery, named after the late Noel Bullock, a dynamic and versatile artist whose career spanned from 1971 to 2021. Renowned for his large-scale outdoor sculptures and installations, Bullock created iconic works such as The First Ship in Kingston and Slap Shot in Virginia Beach. As a founding member of GAN, his legacy lives on through The Industrialist, currently on display at the gallery. His internationally recognized works have been exhibited in Canada, the U.S., Cuba, Scotland, Wales, Italy, and Grenada, where he created his final pieces.
Watch the Gananoque Arts Network Facebook page for more info on upcoming events.
Brockville
ARTS HUB BROCKVILLE will host a magical experience this March. In addition to Mermaids: Enchanting Encounters, they will present an exclusive performance that promises to be truly unforgettable called “Riverbank Tales: A Mermaid Adventure.” From March 1-16, the Brockville Arts Hub will host two showtimes each day, giving you the chance to enjoy a captivating 45-minute performance that brings the world of mermaids to life. After the show, you’ll have the unique opportunity for an exclusive meet-and-greet with the mermaids. This immersive experience is the perfect way to add some enchantment to your day, offering an incredible display of local talent that will leave you spellbound. Show dates run from March 1 to 16 at the Brockville Arts Hub – don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure beneath the waves. Also, watch the group’s Facebook page for more interesting and immersive experiences, including a Paint & Sip Night on March 26.
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1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways
Experience the AOG Gallery in Frankville. This is a double dose of art appreciation. There is a private collection of contemporary art from award-winning local and international artists on-site and a four-kilometre trail dotted with art pieces to enjoy. Inside the studio, there is an eclectic collection that includes paintings, sculptures, and photography. The trail is open all year and no appointment is needed, however, the gallery is open by appointment. Email AOGgallery47@gmail.com for more information. If travelling from Brockville, head north on County Road 29, and turn right on County Road 28 – keep left at the fork in the road. You can’t miss it!
The North Grenville Arts Guild has a pretty “cool” display on now, Froid’Art 2025 until the snow melts. There are two locations to check out some amazing snow sculptures: The Rotary Park and the North Grenville Public Library. The show operates as both a Day and Night Dynamic Art Show as pieces are illuminated from underneath by rope lighting, creating a magical effect. Local artists paint original artwork directly on sheets of acrylic that are then individually frozen into 300 pounds of crystal-clear ice, and/or embedded into a faux-ice frame.
The Merrickville Arts Guild (MAG) brings together local artists from various disciplines, offering them a platform to showcase their talents, and is dedicated to promoting the arts and supporting the creative community in the region.
From painting and photography to pottery, woodturning, and jewelry making, the guild celebrates a wide range of artistic expressions. Throughout the year, MAG hosts engaging events such as studio tours and workshops, providing visitors with the chance to interact with artists and purchase original works directly from the creators.
One of the most popular events is the annual Studio Tour, where artists open their doors to the public, allowing them to get an inside look at the creative process and explore the vibrant arts scene in Merrickville.
For more information, visit www.mag-artists.ca or follow them on social media, where they post about upcoming events.
Drop by the Spencer Street Muse Gallery and Workshop, a new gallery exploring the intersection of Art and Activism. Their mandate is “Raising Voices” of artists committed to addressing important perspectives in this changing and challenging world. As a curated gallery, they look to promote artists with a unique voice coupled with exceptional talent and execution. They work with artists engaged with a variety of media including painting/drawing, photography, sculpture, textiles, and more. Current exhibits include art by Christine Thompson (acrylic and mixed media abstract), Jennifer Holmes (abstract) and Vicki Peters (aboriginal portraits).
Check out these Gardens Adventures in Rideau 1000 Islands waterways that feature art installations:
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Cornwall
Cline House Gallery is located in a beautifully restored 1854 building and offers a rich cultural experience for art lovers. Whether you’re an avid art enthusiast or just looking for something new to explore, this gallery provides a perfect setting to discover regional talent. The gallery's current exhibition, the 3rd Annual Juried Exhibition, which also has an online gallery, runs until mid-March and features a diverse collection of works from local artists. Visitors can enjoy a variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary, and vote for the People's Choice Award while they're there. This is followed by a show in March, Collecting Currents.
In addition to showcasing artwork, the gallery offers a range of programs, including workshops and studio sessions for artists of all ages. It’s a community hub, with events and private rentals available for special occasions.
The gallery is open Thursday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and by appointment. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in Cornwall’s vibrant art scene. Visit the Cline House Gallery for an inspiring and creative experience.
Prescott - Russell
VANKLEEK HILL is where you will find Arbor Gallery, which offers a unique art experience you won’t want to miss. Located at 103 High St., this non-profit cultural hub has been a cornerstone of the community since 1994, offering a dynamic space that supports local artists and their craft. Whether it’s visual art, handmade crafts, or captivating performances, Arbor Gallery invites you to experience creativity in an intimate, welcoming setting. Each exhibit is a chance to explore something fresh, with works that push the boundaries of traditional art. The gallery is open Wednesday through Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm, with free admission (donations always appreciated). So, if you're looking to immerse yourself in art with a personal touch, take a stroll over to Arbor Gallery, where the art is as local as it is inspiring. Keep an eye out for upcoming events.
South Eastern Ontario is brimming with creative energy, and each of these destinations offers something unique: an opportunity to see, hear, and even create something truly special. So, why not plan your next artistic adventure? There’s no better way to connect with a community than through its art.
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