Who says art can only be found in big galleries or urban showrooms? To find fantastic local and Canadian art you need to head to the places that inspire artists to create, and Ontario’s Highlands is among the most beautiful places in Ontario (in our humble opinion).

Beyond the inspiration found in the rugged hills and vast forests of Ontario’s Highlands, exposing yourself to different mediums of art can be both stimulating and uplifting. This year, touring a gallery is an outing that can keep you within your social bubble while you feed your creative side.

Take an inspiring fall road trip and wander indoor and outdoor galleries to discover Canadian art and artists.

Haliburton Sculpture Forest - Haliburton

Get outdoors and combine a leisurely stroll among art installations that are larger than life and nicely juxtaposed against the forest setting. Wander their trails on foot or by bike and get a unique and creative perspective of the forest and how it can blend with art. Book a guided tour  through Yours Outdoors or wander under your own speed and at your own pace.

Sivarulrasa Gallery - Almonte

You’ll discover urban-level art and artists in a small town setting at this beautiful gallery in the town of Almonte. Explore their modern space and expand your concepts of what Canadian art looks like. The gallery hosts vernissages and other events year-round. If you would rather explore virtually, they also offer a virtual experience that draws you into the gallery from a distance. After you’ve been inspired here you can make the short trip up the street to J.B. Arts  to stock up on art supplies to become your own creator.

Rail’s End Gallery - Haliburton

A former rail station makes for an interesting historical setting with a railway focus for Rail’s End. Explore local contemporary art with a uniquely Canadian perspective in the heart of Haliburton Highlands.  You won’t find just paintings here; you can also view historical artifacts and outdoor art installations, or take part in workshops and events. Visit Rail’s End between Sept. 24 and Nov. 14, 2020 to view their newest exhibit: Fireworks 2019.

Art Gallery of Bancroft - Bancroft

Whether you want to wander public art or create your own masterpiece, the Art Gallery of Bancroft will freshen your creativity. With 10 exhibitions each year featuring the work of local artists and artisans you can keep coming back and always get a fresh take on local artistry. Keep a watch on their website to join one of their one-day workshops.

Ethel Curry Gallery  - Haliburton

If you were inspired by the beauty of the Haliburton region, you need to visit Ethel Curry Gallery to see how artists have translated their own inspiration for the area through sculpture, painting, and carvings.  The gallery is open every day throughout the summer but it’s wise to check ahead for hours before your visit.

Bittersweet Gallery - Burnstown

There is so much natural beauty to inspire along the Madawaska River, and Bittersweet Gallery is where you'll find a collection of over 50 Canadian artists and artisans. This gallery has a surprisingly diverse collection of mediums, from woodworking to pottery, painting, sculpted clay, and more.

Bonus: Wilno Craft Gallery - Wilno

This gallery has more of a crafty atmosphere than your typical gallery - wander through the works of more than 170 Canadian artists and artisans in Canada's first polish settlement, Wilno. Afterwards you can explore the nearby Polish Kashub Museum to learn all about the region's polish cultural heritage.

 

Road Trips