SPARROW'S NEST MAKERSPACE is a community hub where creativity, collaboration, and kindness thrive. Where opportunities to support the voices of our community groups are nurtured from the ground up!
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SUPPORTIVE ARTS FALL
THURSDAY MORNINGS
10 AM – 12 PM
SEPTEMBER 18-DECEMBER 18, 2025
Weekly, inclusive art & mindfulness classes for adults with varying abilities.
Join us Sept to June for weekly guided 2-hour workshops designed to support adults of all abilities. Each session embraces diversity and friendship through explorations in art making, movement, mindfulness and music. Every week is as unique as each of our participants!
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THE JOY OF INTUITVE TAPESTRY WITH DIANNE KENNEDY CRUTTENDEN
one spot left!
Step into a world of color, texture, and creative freedom with Intuitive Tapestry Weaving. A joyful, hands-on workshop that invites you to break free from traditional weaving rules and let your instincts lead the way!
Intuitive Tapestry Weaving, moves beyond the rigid patterns and structures of traditional weaving to explore the freedom of letting your creativity guide your design. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced weaver, this workshop encourages you to trust your intuition and explore!
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AFTER THE GROUP OF SEVEN. LAWREN HARRIS, AUTUMN ALGOMA 1920
Join this beginner to intermediate oil panting workshop with artist Rick Worthington to create a master copy of Lawren Harris’s painting, Autumn Algoma, 1920. In this vibrant early work, Harris captures the bold colour and structure of the Northern Ontario landscape in fall—golden foliage, sculptural trees, and luminous sky.
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MONDAY AFTERNOON 6-WEEK SERIES
Join us Mondays 1 pm-3:00 pm this Fall! Open Studio is designed as open-flow studio time, loosely guided by artist Eileen MacArthur for artists who have some experience and would like specific guidance to develop or resolve their work. Classes will be collaborative and relaxed and offer both individual and group critiques, as well as affording the students to opportunity to experiment with various methods and materials.
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MOSAIC STAINED GLASS WITH STEPH HOWE
This October, join artist Steph Howe for an exciting journey into the world of mosaic stained glass. Whether you're a complete beginner or just looking to explore a new creative outlet, this hands-on workshop is the perfect way to dive in! Steph will guide you step by step as you choose from one of her designs and transform vibrant glass pieces into a stunning 10” x 10” framed creation. Learn how to score and cut glass into unique shapes, uncover the secrets of arranging the perfect mosaic, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon of artistry and discovery!
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SAT + SUN AFTERNOON WORKSHOP WITH HEATHER MARTIN
Discover the Art of Wood Burning on Paper! Join this guided two-part workshop where you'll explore the beauty of pyrography on paper. Learn how to create consistent lines, intricate patterns, and beautiful shading using burning techniques—all in a relaxed, creative environment. No prior experience needed!
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Snow is more than just white paint. It's a delicate dance of light, shadow, and subtle colour variations.
Join Elora artist Rick Worthington for a relaxed day of oil painting and learn how to capture the serene beauty of a late winter landscape. In this guided workshop, artists will paint a peaceful, snow-covered farm during the last days of winter, while exploring the techniques Impressionist painters used to bring scenes to life!
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one spot left!
Elora artist Rick Worthington leads a relaxed one day oil painting workshop inspired by the luminous streets of Paris after the rain! Working from Rick’s original painting of Le St. André, Paris, you will learn to capture reflections, wet pavement, and moody skies while bringing energy and life into your brushwork.
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DECK THE BOARDS! PYROGRAPHY WITH HEATHER MARTIN
Add a personal touch to your holiday gifting. Join Pyrography artist Heather Martin for a relaxing afternoon of "writing with fire"—and create a one-of-a-kind wood-burned, live edge charcuterie board that’s perfect for holiday entertaining or gifting!
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Discover the joy of weaving in this hands-on, beginner-friendly workshop led by tapestry artist Dianne Kennedy Cruttenden. Whether you're new to textiles or simply looking for a creative way to Sunday-slow-down, you'll learn how to make a beautiful set of handwoven coasters—each one as unique as you!
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Step into the serene beauty of a winter night with Elora artist Rick Worthington in this immersive one-day oil workshop exploring the magic of light on a winter night.
Inspired by Rick’s painting Silent Illumination—a glowing portrayal of downtown Elora—this session invites you to explore the interplay of light, colour, and mood of festive lights and the stillness of a snowy winter street.
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Looking to add a handmade touch to your holiday décor or create a one-of-a-kind gift? Join textile artist Caitlin Barrie for a festive afternoon of creativity and cheer as we dive into the art of rug hooking!
In this hands-on workshop, you'll craft 2–3 beautiful ornaments in the colours and designs of your choice—perfect for decorating your tree or gifting to someone special. No experience needed—just bring your holiday spirit and we’ll provide the rest!
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AFTER THE GROUP OF 7 WINTER LANDSCAPE
OIL PAINTING WITH RICK WORTHINGTON
Immerse yourself in the world of Lawren Harris in this one-day workshop led by artist Rick Worthington. Drawing inspiration from Winter Landscape with Pink House,1918, we’ll unlock the visual language of Harris’s signature style—his bold design, radiant colour palette, and elegant simplicity!
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INTRODUCTION TO MINHWA
PEONY WITH HEEJUNG SHIN
Join Loops, Layers, Shapes & Shadows exhibition artist Heejung Shin for an introduction to Korean MINHWA painting!
Minhwa, meaning “folk painting” in Korean were paintings by and for ordinary people during the Joseon Dynasty, 1392-1910.
Featuring bright, bold colour, symbolic and stylized forms, and themes of good fortune, health, and happiness, Minhwa is created on Hanji mulberry paper, using pigment and brushes. You will go home with you own Peony (Moran) folk painting!
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TWILIGHT WOOD BURNING WORKSHOP WITH HEATHER MARTIN
Join us for a calming and creative evening aligned with the first New Moon of the New Year—a powerful time to begin again, set intentions, and welcome fresh possibilities for 2026!
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Presented by the Be*Spoke Festival - you are invited to attend this FREE speaker event in the atrium at the Elora Centre for the Arts!
Free Event
HI-TEA & TALES IN THE ATRIUM WITH JAN FEDUCK
Join us for a Sunday afternoon Tea Party in our new Atrium space!
Sharing tea together is a tradition that has been practiced worldwide for centuries. Author and tea enthusiast Jan Feduck invites you to high tea and storytelling, steeped in tradition and infused with fun! Jan will serve a High Tea and give a short talk about tea traditions and stories that are part fact, part fiction, but pure fascination.
This special gathering celebrates the creativity and community that flourishes at the Art Centre, and of course, TEA! All proceeds benefit the Supportive Arts program and the mission to enrich lives through inclusive, accessible programming!
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BOATS IN MEDITERRANEAN LIGHT. OIL PAINTING WITH RICK WORTHINGTON
Shake off winter and immerse yourself in sun-drenched colour and coastal charm inspired by artist Rick Worthington’s original painting Boats in Mediterranean Light—a celebration of warmth, movement, and atmosphere!
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FREE ART CLINIC WITH ARTIST BARRY McCARTHY One spot available!
Calling all artists! Looking for fresh inspiration, motivation, and expert guidance? Join us for a FREE Art Clinic with renowned Canadian artist Barry McCarthy! Bring your work-in-progress and materials and spend the afternoon painting in our new light-filled Atrium space. Barry will offer one-on-one insights, technique suggestions, and encouragement to help you move forward, refine your approach, or finally finish that painting you’ve been working on.
Free Event
EXPRESSIVE ABSTRACTS WITH CAROLYN SHARP
Discover the possibilities of abstract painting with artist Carolyn Sharp in this introductory workshop suitable for all levels of experience.
Spend a playful day exploring what makes an abstract painting compelling and learn how to build dynamic compositions and achieve colour harmony.
Carolyn will guide you through playful exercises and share practical tips to spark your imagination!
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LIFE DRAWING IN THE ATRIUM. 3-HOUR SELF-GUIDED SESSIONS WITH LIVE MODEL
Join us on the first Tuesday of the month for self-directed life drawing centered on creative flow, shared space, and working from the human form. This is a welcoming evening designed to support both personal practice and community connection. Come draw, paint and reconnect with your practice alongside fellow artists!
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INTRO TO BASKET WEAVING WITH DAVID GRIEVES OF WOVEN HUES
2 spots available!
Join artisan David Grieves and craft a traditional piece of functional art from the WOVEN HUES NATURALS COLLECTION. Guided step‑by‑step, weave a clean, modern round basket in a refined two‑tone palette and timeless design.
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VAN GOGH IRISES WITH RICK WORTHINGTON
Shake off winter and step into spring by immersing yourself in Van Gogh’s 1890 masterwork Irises. In this one‑day oil painting workshop, you’ll explore bold colour, expressive brushwork, and simplified shapes inspired by this iconic floral painting.
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MORE MOSAIC STAINED GLASS WITH STEPH HOWE
Step into a world of color and creativity in this hands-on workshop led by glass artist Steph Howe. Whether you're brand new to stained glass or simply curious to try something new, this class offers the perfect introduction!
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SUPPORTIVE ARTS SPRING WEDNESDAYS
APRIL 1 - JUNE 17, 2026
10 AM – 12 PM
Weekly, inclusive art & mindfulness classes for adults with varying abilities. Join us Sept to June for weekly guided 2-hour workshops designed to support adults of all abilities. Each session embraces diversity and friendship through explorations in art making, movement, mindfulness and music. Every week is as unique as our participants!
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ARTFUL AGEING. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOONS IN APRIL PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER FOR MAY OR JUNE CLASSES
Celebrate creativity, connection and community every Wednesday at the Arts Centre! Beginner-friendly art projects designed for older adults that embrace creative freedom and collaboration in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere!
SUPPORTIVE ARTS SPRING THRUSDAYS
APRIL 2 - JUNE 18, 2026
10 AM – 12 PM
Weekly, inclusive art & mindfulness classes for adults with varying abilities. Join us Sept to June for weekly guided 2-hour workshops designed to support adults of all abilities. Each session embraces diversity and friendship through explorations in art making, movement, mindfulness and music. Every week is as unique as our participants!
Click Learn More for ticket availability
LIFE DRAWING IN THE ATRIUM. 3-HOUR SELF-GUIDED SESSIONS WITH LIVE MODEL
Join us on the first Tuesday of the month for self-directed life drawing centered on creative flow, shared space, and working from the human form. This is a welcoming evening designed to support both personal practice and community connection. Come draw, paint and reconnect with your practice alongside fellow artists!
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OIL & COLD WAX INTRO WITH CAROLYN SHARP
Join artist Carolyn Sharp to explore the expressive medium of oil and cold wax.
Cold wax (beeswax) creates a depth in paintings that is unlike any other. Using beeswax, learn how to build rich layers and experiment with tools like palette knives, brayers, and silicone wedges.
Carolyn will guide you towards creating atmospheric and colourful abstract paintings, and share insights on how to create compelling compositions and creating colour harmony.
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INTRO TO PYROGRAPHY WITH HEATHER MARTIN
Spend a relaxed afternoon with artist Heather Martin and discover the expressive, hands-on art of pyrography. In this introductory workshop, you’ll learn the fundamentals of writing with fire as you explore mark‑making, texture, shading, and safe tool use. Guided step‑by‑step, you’ll create your own custom wood‑burned charcuterie board—beautiful, functional, and uniquely yours!
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CREATING FUSED GLASS WALL ART WITH STEPH HOWE
Create a unique kiln‑formed, two‑dimensional fused‑glass piece with glass artist Steph Howe!
Design a piece for your wall that plays with layered colour, texture, and luminous transparency. A perfect introduction to working with glass!
BIRDS OF BECOMING WITH ELORA SCULPTOR CAROLE CHALOUPKA
1 ticket available! This class is also available May 31
Birds of Becoming is a hands-on sculpture workshop centred on making a bird form as a container for personal reflection and becoming.
Professional sculptor Carole Chaloupka approaches sculpture as a meaningful creative practice—one in which the act of shaping an object by hand allows form, intention, and meaning to emerge together.
INTUITIVE TAPESTRY WEAVING WITH DIANNE KC!
Step into a world of color, texture, and creative freedom with textile artist Dianne Kennedy Cruttenden. This hands-on workshop invites you to break free from traditional weaving rules and let your instincts lead the way!
LIFE DRAWING IN THE ATRIUM. 3-HOUR SELF-GUIDED SESSIONS WITH LIVE MODEL
Join us on the first Tuesday of the month for self-directed life drawing centered on creative flow, shared space, and working from the human form. This is a welcoming evening designed to support both personal practice and community connection. Come draw, paint and reconnect with your practice alongside fellow artists!
ARTFUL AGEING. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOONS IN MAY PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER FOR JUNE CLASSES
Celebrate creativity, connection and community every Wednesday at the Arts Centre! Beginner-friendly art projects designed for older adults that embrace creative freedom and collaboration in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere!
Join glass artist Steph Howe for an introduction to the art of fused glass and create a beautiful set of two sculpted dishes. In this hands‑on workshop, participants learn the essentials of cutting and grinding glass, then work on a pre‑fused flat glass panel as their creative base.
A MOTHER’S DAY WOODBURNING RETREAT WITH HEATHER MARTIN
Spend Mother’s Day slowing down, creating, and sharing time together in nature. with artist Heather Martin. This day-retreat is an invitation to spend a day with your mom, close friend, or come as you are to gather with others and enjoy a meaningful creative experience rooted in presence, gratitude, and connection!
MOSAIC STAINED GLASS FOR ALL WITH STEPH HOWE
Immerse yourself in a world of color and light with glass artist Steph Howe. Discover the captivating world of stained glass —from cutting and shaping glass to assembling your very own luminous piece.
Whether you're new to stained glass, or just eager for some fresh creativity, this class is designed to be a relaxed afternoon of inspiration and fun!
INTRO TO BASKET WEAVING WITH DAVID GRIEVES OF WOVEN HUES
Join artisan David Grieves and craft a traditional piece of functional art from the WOVEN HUES NATURALS COLLECTION. Guided step‑by‑step, weave a clean, modern round basket in a refined two‑tone palette and timeless design.
MONET HAYSTACKS IMPRESSIONIST PAINTING WITH RICK WORTHINGTON
Painting Light! Step into the luminous world of Claude Monet and discover how colour can become your most expressive tool.
In this beginner-intermediate oil painting workshop, artists will investigate the techniques Claude Monet used to capture shifting light, fleeting moments, and atmospheric nuance, focusing especially on his iconic Haystacks series.
BIRDS OF BECOMING WITH ELORA SCULPTOR CAROLE CHALOUPKA
Birds of Becoming is a hands-on sculpture workshop centred on making a bird form as a container for personal reflection and becoming.
Professional sculptor Carole Chaloupka approaches sculpture as a meaningful creative practice—one in which the act of shaping an object by hand allows form, intention, and meaning to emerge together.
LIFE DRAWING IN THE ATRIUM. 3-HOUR SELF-GUIDED SESSIONS WITH LIVE MODEL
Join us on the first Tuesday of the month for self-directed life drawing centered on creative flow, shared space, and working from the human form. This is a welcoming evening designed to support both personal practice and community connection. Come draw, paint and reconnect with your practice alongside fellow artists!
ARTFUL AGEING. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOONS IN JUNE
Celebrate creativity, connection and community every Wednesday at the Arts Centre! Beginner-friendly art projects designed for older adults that embrace creative freedom and collaboration in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere!
2-DAY RUG HOOKING WORKSHOP WITH CAITLIN BARRIE
THE STARRY NIGHT. POST-IMPRESSIONISM WITH RICK WORTHINGTON
Join artist Rick Worthington for this beginner to intermediate oil painting workshop, inspired by the Post‑Impressionist vision of Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night. Explore how Van Gogh used bold, directional brushstrokes and striking colour contrasts to infuse the night sky with movement and emotion.
Summon a soft, squishy sidekick from the depths of your creative cauldron—let’s BREW UP A PAL with ALISA McRONALD! Let the colours swirl and the characters emerge with internationally exhibited textile artist Alisa McRonald!
TAPESTRY WEAVING WITH DIANNE KENNEDY CRUTTENDEN
Discover the quiet joy of tapestry weaving with fibre artist Dianne Kennedy Cruttenden and create your own hand-woven Canadian landscape. This workshop welcomes both beginners and experienced weavers into a relaxed, creative space that celebrate the land, sky, and beauty of our home-Canada.