Elora Centre for the Arts

Inspiring Your Creativity at Any Stage of Life: 'Bloom' with artist Janice Mason Steeves
2024-11-17 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto) | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Are you looking to be inspired for the next stage of your life? Wondering where to begin as you re-imagine where your creative opportunities and life changes may take you? Join artist and author Janice Mason Steeves as she talks about how an insistent dream she had while she was at an artist residency in Sweden, led to writing ‘Bloom: On Becoming An Artist Later in Life’. Interspersed with stories of the 138 artists she interviewed, Janice shares her own journey to become an artist as well as the research she did into art and aging. While written with older artists in mind, this is an inspiring book about creativity for all ages and all mediums, whether music, writing, painting, or poetry.

Find out more! Join us in the gallery to share, learn and be inspired. Guests will also be able to purchase an autographed copy of ‘Bloom’, and carry home further inspiration to continue at home.
Cost: $10 ($8.85 + HST)
Tickets and registration below.

Meet Janice
Born in Saskatchewan, Janice Mason Steeves graduated with an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Manitoba. She held School Psychology positions before leaving the field to focus on painting. Further studies were completed at the Ontario College of Art and Design. Janice is represented by galleries in Canada and has work in public, corporate, and private collections in North America and internationally. She has been awarded artist residencies in Spain, Ireland, Sweden, Iceland and the U.S.
Janice is passionate about helping artists form a deeper connection to the earth and to that end, she has developed an art teaching initiative called Workshops in Wild Places. In these unique workshops, we travel to remote locations throughout the world to experience the beauty, energy and power of the wild landscape, to deeply connect with it and then, through a contemplative and creative process, translate that response into abstract paintings.
Janice’s book Bloom: On Becoming an Artist Later in Life is an inspirational look at how our older years are a time of inner soul work and continued growth through our creativity.
Author Kathy Stinson writes, [This book is ] “A wonderful mix of anecdotes about the author’s own personal journey as a visual artist, the stories of the men and women she interviewed, and her research into creativity and aging. An inspiring read for anyone thinking it’s too late to indulge their long-ignored creative impulses, as an artist in any field.”
For more information on the artist, please visit janicemasonsteeves.com or workshopsinwildplaces.com

DUTCH FLORAL STILL LIFE | Learning from The Masters | with EILEEN MACARTHUR
2024-11-30 12:00 - 17:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
AGES 16+ | MAX 12
$75 + hst | All materials included
Join artist Eileen MacArthur for an introduction to painting a botanical still life using acrylics. Looking at the works of Dutch masters for inspiration, students will learn about paint handling, value, composition, colour mixing, and creating shape and drama.
Eileen will also discuss glazing and how to unify paintings and create strong focal points. Students will go home with an 8×10 painting detail of a Dutch Still Life botanical.
Everyone welcome! No experience required.

Meet Eileen!
Eileen MacArthur is a practicing artist and arts educator with over 20 years of experience teaching art to adults and children at the Guelph School of Art, Studiohere and the Art Gallery of Guelph. She holds a Master of Fine Art degree from the University of Guelph, and a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University. Eileen is inspired by watching artist communities evolve and flourish! Eileen owns and operated the Arthur School of Art, an art school located in her studio at her home in Arthur Ontario.

IF YOU CANCEL
Cancellations up to 14 days prior to start date will receive a full refund, less a $25 administrative fee. No refund of fees will apply to cancellations within 14 days of start date. Fees may be applied/credited to an alternate workshop depending on availability.
IF WE CANCEL
To help ensure the course you’re interested in runs, we suggest you register no less than two weeks in advance. In the event of insufficient registrations ECFTA reserves the right to cancel workshops. You would be eligible for a full refund of fees, or credit for a future workshop, pending availability.

TEENY TINY BAKERY PRESENTS HOLIDAY COOKIE DECORATING!
2024-12-05 18:30 - 21:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
At last! Teeny Tiny Bakery joins us to share the love of mini decorated-cookie masterpieces! Join cookie artist Jackie Long for a fun and playful evening workshop to learn the art of decorating cookie-tops, themed to the Holidays!
In this beginner decorating class we will create 10-12 Holiday themed cookies, in varying sizes. All materials are included in your kit fee, so just relax and create! We will cover topics of baking, royal icing, piping bags, flooding, wet-on-wet decorating, and storage.
We have 12 spaces available. Grab a friend or family member and have fun creating edible art, (almost) too pretty to eat!
Please note: $25 kit fee payable in cash or Square to the instructor at start of class.

MEET JACKIE!

I have always loved baking. I love the activity of it, the scents of sugar in the air, and I especially love the reaction when someone enjoys the treats. Decorating sugar cookies with royal icing began in 2012, for my twins’ first birthday party. I stumbled into a world that is full of creativity, kindness, and hard work. I love to talk about cookies and techniques and I’m very excited to help others find joy in decorating as well.

IF YOU CANCEL
Cancellations up to 14 days prior to start date will receive a full refund, less a $25 administrative fee. No refund of fees will apply to cancellations within 14 days of start date. Fees may be applied/credited to an alternate workshop depending on availability.
IF WE CANCEL
To help ensure the course you’re interested in runs, we suggest you register no less than two weeks in advance. In the event of insufficient registrations ECFTA reserves the right to cancel workshops. You would be eligible for a full refund of fees, or credit for a future workshop, pending availability.

INTIMATE INTERIORS | ACRYLICS WITH RICK WORTHINGTON
2024-12-07 10:00 - 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
AGES 16+ | MAX 12
$150 + hst | + $15 kit fee
Join artist Rick Worthington to learn the fundamentals of creating interior paintings and discover the essentials of acrylic painting in this foundational course. Interior scenes offer some of the most intimate, inviting, and captivating subjects to paint! Join us for this immersive day of intimate interiors!

Learn to select the right materials and tools and master the basics of paint application. Through engaging exercises, students will explore key concepts of colour and composition, glazing with acrylics, and develop your confidence with acrylics. This focussed day will include class demonstrations and personalized instruction to support your individual progress.

Please note, $15 kit fee payable in cash to Rick at the start of class.
Materials included in the kit fee: acrylics, reference image, laminated grey scale, brushes etc
Students are asked to provide their own canvas, any level. Suggested 12″x 16″ maximum.
12″ x 16″ canvases will be available for purchase if needed.
Reference material will be provided.
You are also welcome to bring your own interior photograph to work from!

Meet Rick!
Rick Worthington, an accomplished full-time impressionist painter based in the charming village of Elora, Ontario. Rick secured his position as a notable artist by winning first place in the “Modern Impressionist Magazine” October/November salon of 2023. His vibrant oil paintings, depicting lively street scenes and cozy cafes, are highly sought after, masterfully capturing the interplay of light and shadow to create a captivating atmosphere.

IF YOU CANCEL
Cancellations up to 14 days prior to start date will receive a full refund, less a $25 administrative fee. No refund of fees will apply to cancellations within 14 days of start date. Fees may be applied/credited to an alternate workshop depending on availability.
IF WE CANCEL
To help ensure the course you’re interested in runs, we suggest you register no less than two weeks in advance. In the event of insufficient registrations ECFTA reserves the right to cancel workshops. You would be eligible for a full refund of fees, or credit for a future workshop, pending availability.

HOLIDAY CHARCUTERIE & MORE | WOOD BURNING WITH HEATHER MARTIN
2024-12-08 13:00 - 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
AGES 14+ | MAX 12
$75 + hst | + $30 kit fee
Handcraft your own seasonally inspired charcuterie board to take home or gift for the holidays! , guided Join Pyrography artist Heather Martin in a relaxed afternoon creating your own wood burned, textured design. Learn various Pyrography techniques to create texture, line, and tonal value. Inspired by your own intuitive exploration, students will go home with a charcuterie board as unique as you!

No experience required. Suitable for all levels of experience.
Walnut Hallow brass tip burners and templates will be available for use. Or alternatively, bring your own woodburning tools.
Kit fee based on materials, payable to Heather in cash, debit or credit at the start of class.
Included in the kit fee:
Your choice of Charcuterie board in Maple or Cherry and a 1 oz container of food safe board cream. Charcuterie size options starting 8”x12” at $30
Additional items available:
Coaster $5 or Coaster set of 4 $20 | Ornament rounds $2 | 3″ ornament ball $15 | Cotton Tote Bags $5

Meet Heather!
Heather Martin of FireWork Designs is a Pyrography Artist based in Fergus Ontario. Heather has been woodburning for almost a decade and her passion for creating shows in her unique wood-burned designs using a mix of locally sourced woods and on paper. Working with the lines and patterns inherent to wood and the slow, immersive process of woodburning, Heather is drawn to the extensive depth and texture attainable within a medium that is almost sculptural.
Heather completed her Bachelor of Arts at University of Toronto and Sheridan Institute in Art and Art History where she specialized in Sculpture, Print Media and Photography. The accumulation of her interests is quite apparent in her work. Her burnings are available in a variety of forms from wall art to functional items such as charcuterie boards, spoons, ornaments and more. Heather sells her work at Local Pieces Gallery in Downtown Fergus and local markets where she often demonstrates her woodburning practice. Heather enjoys sharing her passion for woodburning in classes and workshops of up to 25 people. You can connect with Heather through her social media or website.

IF YOU CANCEL
Cancellations up to 14 days prior to start date will receive a full refund, less a $25 administrative fee. No refund of fees will apply to cancellations within 14 days of start date. Fees may be applied/credited to an alternate workshop depending on availability.
IF WE CANCEL
To help ensure the course you’re interested in runs, we suggest you register no less than two weeks in advance. In the event of insufficient registrations ECFTA reserves the right to cancel workshops. You would be eligible for a full refund of fees, or credit for a future workshop, pending availability.

OPEN STUDIO MONDAYS WITH EILEEN MACARTHUR
2025-01-13 12:30 - 2025-03-03 15:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
MONDAY AFTERNOON 7-WEEK SERIES
Join us Mondays 12:30-3:00 pm this winter! Open Studio is designed as open-flow studio time, loosely guided by artist Eileen MacArthur.

This series is for artists who have some experience and would like specific guidance to develop or resolve their work. Classes will offer both individual and group critiques, as well as affording the students to opportunity to experiment with various methods and materials if they choose. The working environment will be collaborative and relaxed.
Each week will start with a guided exercise for students to develop their critical thinking and studio practice. Week one students will start with some warm-up exercises, make a material list and be asked to shop for their supplies for weeks 2-7. Materials will be provided for week one.
All methods and mediums welcome.
All levels of ability and experience are encouraged!
Contact us for more info!

NEEDLE FELTED LANDSCAPE WITH MEGAN CLELAND
2025-01-26 11:00 - 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Join fibre artist Megan Cleland for a fun and friendly introduction to the art of needle felting in the round!
Megan will guide participants in landscape composition, use of a source image, choosing needle size, and how to choose from a selection of beautiful natural fibres, suitable for needle felting.
Working on a 9″ hoop, students will go home with a finished landscape wall piece, and with the knowledge to continue their own felting journey!

Please note, there is a $15 kit fee payable in cash to the instructor at the start of class.
All materials are included in the kit fee: wool felt backing fabric, 2 needles, natural and commercially dyed wool in varying colour options, 9” embroidery hoop for framing, foam pad.
Students are asked to bring a landscape image of their choice as inspiration. Either on your device or a photocopy.
Contact us for more info!

Artists Inspiring Artists - a FREE series to ignite creativity, presented by the Canadian Opera Company! - Session 1
2025-01-27 17:30 - 19:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Event cancelled due to illness. To be rescheduled. Register for one of the other upcoming sessions!
New Year, New You! With the Canadian Opera Company!
Kick off 2025 with a burst of creativity by joining the Canadian Opera Company and Elora Centre for the Arts for a transformative series of 3 evening workshops designed to fuel your artistic spirit. Hosted by Renée Salewski, a talented Teaching Artist from the Canadian Opera Company, these workshops are crafted to push you beyond your artistic boundaries. Explore new techniques and perspectives through improv, acting, creative writing, and visual art.

This series is open to artists from all disciplines, inviting participants to step outside of their comfort zones and learn innovative strategies that can enhance any artistic pursuit. Whether you’re a dancer, actor, musician, writer, or visual artist, there’s something for everyone.
Details:

Location: in the gallery at the Elora Centre for the Arts
Cost: FREE! (thanks to the generosity of the Canadian Opera Company)
When: Jan 27, Feb 3, Feb 24 (this is a 3-part series, but you can also just sign up for just one – each session is unique!). Sign up for each date separately!
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 PM
Registration is required – sign up now to reserve your spot (scroll down for registration – limited spaces available)

This is a unique opportunity to learn from a talented performer and teaching artist in a welcoming and supportive environment. Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with other creatives and elevate your artistic journey in 2025!

Photo credits (below) Karen E. Reeves, Adobe Stock, Taylor Long

CIRCLE WEAVING WITH WOOL & NATURE
2025-02-02 10:00 - 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
WEAVING WITH DIANNE KENNEDY CRUTTENDEN
The smooth, flowing nature of circles offer a calming connection to nature. Join tapestry artist Dianne Kennedy Cruttenden in our bright and cheery workshop classroom for a creative journey into the portals of circle weaving!

“Caim” a Gaelic word that means protective circle, circles are an intrinsic way to live in harmony with the world and contemplate the many cycles that carry us through life; the sun, moon, seasons and the journey of life itself.
Dianne will share with you basic weaving techniques. Everything you will need to create your own 10” hoop ‘Caim’, will be supplied in the kit fee, along with a supply of natural and hand-dyes wools and organic materials. Artists will work towards a completed circle by the end of day! All levels of experience welcome!
Please note, there is a $25 kit fee payable in cash to the instructor at the start of class. All materials included in the kit fee.
Contact us for more info

Artists Inspiring Artists - a FREE series to ignite creativity, presented by the Canadian Opera Company! - Session 2
2025-02-03 17:30 - 19:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
New Year, New You! With the Canadian Opera Company!
Kick off 2025 with a burst of creativity by joining the Canadian Opera Company and Elora Centre for the Arts for a transformative series of 3 evening workshops designed to fuel your artistic spirit. Hosted by Renée Salewski, a talented Teaching Artist from the Canadian Opera Company, these workshops are crafted to push you beyond your artistic boundaries. Explore new techniques and perspectives through improv, acting, creative writing, and visual art.

This series is open to artists from all disciplines, inviting participants to step outside of their comfort zones and learn innovative strategies that can enhance any artistic pursuit. Whether you’re a dancer, actor, musician, writer, or visual artist, there’s something for everyone.
Details:

Location: in the gallery at the Elora Centre for the Arts
Cost: FREE! (thanks to the generosity of the Canadian Opera Company)
When: Feb 3, Feb 24 and March 17 (this is a 3-part series, but you can also just sign up for just one – each session is unique!). Sign up for each date separately!
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 PM
Registration is required – sign up now to reserve your spot (scroll down for registration – limited spaces available)

This is a unique opportunity to learn from a talented performer and teaching artist in a welcoming and supportive environment. Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with other creatives and elevate your artistic journey in 2025!

Photo credits (below) Karen E. Reeves, Adobe Stock, Taylor Long

The Georgian Bay Series AFTER TOM THOMSON
2025-02-08 10:00 - 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
OIL PAINTING WITH RICK WORTHINGTON
The second in our GEORGIAN BAY series celebrating the work of members of the Group of 7, AFTER TOM THOMSON is an intermediate oil painting workshop for artists with some oil experience. Create a master copy of Tom Thomson’s iconic 1916-1917 painting The West Wind.

Copying a master’s work is one of the most effective ways to deepen your understanding of technique and style. Thomson’s bold brushwork and vivid colours provide a perfect study in capturing the raw energy of the Canadian wilderness. His paintings evoke a profound connection to nature and inspire awe.
In this class, you’ll learn techniques for layering thick, expressive paint to create texture and energy, emulating Thomson’s distinctive style. You’ll also gain an understanding of his approach to mixing and applying colour for emotional impact. Through personalized guidance and live demonstrations, you’ll build valuable skills that will enhance your own artistic practice.

Please note, there is a $25 Kit fee payable to Rick in cash at the start of class.
All materials are included in the kit fee; oil paint, canvas, odourless solvent, reference image, grey scale for colour mixing, brushes etc.
Contact us for more info!

NEEDLE FELTED 3D SHEEP WITH MEGAN CLELAND
2025-02-09 11:00 - 15:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Join fibre artist Megan Cleland for a playful afternoon of guided needle felting and learn how to take felting into another dimension! This class is suitable for beginners and those with some experience flat felting that want to try felting sculpturally!
Students will learn how to use core wool, add curls to the outer layer, add ears and details to create their own approx. 6″ sculptural sheep. They will also learn how to make ears and add them to their sheep.
A great workshop to learn the basics and go home with the skills to make more!
Please note, there is a $10 kit fee payable in cash to the instructor at the start of class. All materials included in the kit fee.
Kit fee includes wool, wooden disk, beads, embroidery thread, ribbon, accessories and your choice of lamb curls, white or brown!
Contact us for more info!

Sundays at the Centre - Women's Winter Wellness
2025-02-09 16:00 - 18:30 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Grab your bestie, sister or mom and join us for an afternoon to rejuvenate and reconnect! With a focus on mindfulness and creativity, this session includes take home items, art project & materials as well as a special beverage and snack.
Theme – Intention Setting and Mindfulness: Gentle Movement, Reflection and Art Project

Part 1 – with Kelly Erais from Whole Body Fitness! Welcome to a nourishing space of self-care and connection. We’ll begin by setting intentions for this time together, creating a mindful and grounding ritual that’s designed to relax and restore you. Think of it as a mini-pampering experience, inviting you to let go of any tension and truly centre yourself.
Next, we’ll flow into gentle “connection” stretching and yoga, where you’ll partner with someone you trust to support and enhance each stretch. This practice encourages you to rely on each other for relaxation and balance, deepening your connection while releasing physical tension.
To further nurture your mind and spirit, we’ll explore a brief journaling session, paired with a reading. This is a chance to reflect and set meaningful intentions, allowing the words to guide you toward clarity and peace.
Finally, we’ll close the experience with a special snack and a rejuvenating herbal tea from The Pillars Elora, leaving you feeling refreshed, nourished, and deeply connected to yourself and the people around you. This session is all about embracing wellness, cultivating connection, and honoring your own journey of self-care.
Bring a yoga matt and blanket if you have one!
Part 2 in the classroom – Led by artist Heather Martin, this hands-on workshop will delve into the meaningful themes of intention setting and mindfulness, building on the session early in the gallery. Heather will guide you through the unique technique of wood burning, using this intricate and meditative craft to create personalized pieces that are unique to you. You’ll learn to work with various materials, transforming them into heartfelt works of art, while embracing the peaceful rhythm of the wood-burning process. All materials provided.

Thank you to support from Elora Fergus Tourism and RT04 for this Winter Wellness initiative.

BURNING ON PAPER! PAPER PYROGRAPHY WITH HEATHER MARTIN
2025-02-23 13:00 - 2025-03-02 15:30 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Join Pyrography artist Heather Martin of FireWork Designs for an introduction to the art of burning on paper! In this interactive 2-Sunday afternoon class students will have an opportunity to explore and practice creating consistent lines, patterns, and shading with burning on paper!

Both classes will begin with warm-up practice. Week 1 will include practice burning on a few small samples of paper. By the end of day one artists will aim to have their burning complete and be ready to add color for week 2! Week 2 will start by experimenting with layering colour (watercolour, acrylic, and ink) and masking using the same sample papers.
Over the two Sundays, Heather will offer guidance on:

paper types and how they’re made
which paper is safe to burn on and what to look for in selecting paper
comparison of Strathmore, Stonehenge, and hot vs cold press papers
how to prepare paper and experiment with layering other mediums

No experience necessary!
Please note, there is a $10 kit fee, payable in cash to the instructor at the start of class. All materials are included in the kit fee.
Contact us for more info!

Vibrant Visions: Beyond Words - How the Arts Bring Meaning and Connection in Life's Final Chapter
2025-02-23 15:00 - 16:30 | Ontario
Join us for our second afternoon in our ‘Vibrant Visions’ speaker series! Our 5 panelists will discuss and present various angles and viewpoints on Beyond Words: How the Arts Bring Meaning and Connection in Life’s Final Chapter, presented by the Aboyne Rural Hospice and the Elora Centre for the Arts.
Tickets are on sale now! (scroll down to purchase): $30 General Admission | $20 Seniors/Students

Everyone is welcome! Anyone who is curious about the power of the arts in health and wellness will be engaged by this panel discussion. It will be of special interest to families and individuals with lived experience of end-of-life, caregivers, clinicians, and arts and wellness professionals wanting to broaden their understanding about the needs of end-of-life care and processing grief.
Meet our five panelists – Dr. Chris Lund (Palliative Physician), Angela Hammond (Palliative Social Worker), Mary Meads (Music Therapist), Stephanie Lines-Toohill (Supportive Arts Facilitator & PSW), Judy Anderson (Artist & Program Director at ECFTA).
All proceeds from this event are directed towards the Aboyne Rural Hospice and the Elora Centre for the Arts capital campaigns.

Artists Inspiring Artists - a FREE series to ignite creativity, presented by the Canadian Opera Company! - Session 3
2025-02-24 17:30 - 19:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
New Year, New You! With the Canadian Opera Company!
Kick off 2025 with a burst of creativity by joining the Canadian Opera Company and Elora Centre for the Arts for a transformative series of 3 evening workshops designed to fuel your artistic spirit. Hosted by Renée Salewski, a talented Teaching Artist from the Canadian Opera Company, these workshops are crafted to push you beyond your artistic boundaries. Explore new techniques and perspectives through improv, acting, creative writing, and visual art.

This series is open to artists from all disciplines, inviting participants to step outside of their comfort zones and learn innovative strategies that can enhance any artistic pursuit. Whether you’re a dancer, actor, musician, writer, or visual artist, there’s something for everyone.
Details:

Location: in the gallery at the Elora Centre for the Arts
Cost: FREE! (thanks to the generosity of the Canadian Opera Company)
When: Feb 3, Feb 24 and March 17 (this is a 3-part series, but you can also just sign up for just one – each session is unique!). Sign up for each date separately!
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 PM
Registration is required – sign up now to reserve your spot (scroll down for registration – limited spaces available)

This is a unique opportunity to learn from a talented performer and teaching artist in a welcoming and supportive environment. Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with other creatives and elevate your artistic journey in 2025!

Photo credits (below) Karen E. Reeves, Taylor Long, Adobe Stock

Sundays at the Centre - Women's Winter Wellness
2025-03-02 16:00 - 18:30 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Grab your bestie, sister or mom and join us for an afternoon to rejuvenate and reconnect! With a focus on mindfulness and creativity, this session includes take home items, art project & materials as well as a special beverage and snack.
Theme: Gratitude and Connection – Breathwork, Stretching and Hands-on Art Project

Part 1 in the gallery – with Charmaine Lee, Breathwork Specialist and Kelly Erais from Whole Body Fitness. Breathwork is a powerful tool for grounding and calming the mind and body. By focusing on our breath, we can create a sense of peace and clarity, helping us feel more centered in the present moment. Breathwork is especially beneficial for women as it encourages deep relaxation, reduces stress, and promotes overall well-being.
We’ll start with some gentle movements to ground ourselves in the body, followed by some simple guided breathwork exercises that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine. Conscious breathing is a doorway to connecting body, mind and spirit, bringing you home to yourself and your peace.
As we flow through these practices, we’ll also take a moment to reflect on gratitude. Gratitude, when shared, deepens our connections and uplifts our spirits, bringing more joy and abundance into our lives. To round off this experience, enjoy a special beverage and snack from The Pillars Elora, nourishing both your body and your soul.
Bring a yoga matt and blanket if you have one!
Part 2 in the Classroom – Led by artist Heather Martin, this hands-on workshop will delve into the meaningful themes of thankfulness and connection, building on the inspiring gallery session earlier in the day. Heather will guide you through the unique technique of wood burning, using this intricate and meditative craft to create personalized pieces that symbolize your gratitude for the people, moments, and experiences that enrich your life. You’ll learn to work with various materials, transforming them into heartfelt works of art, while embracing the peaceful rhythm of the wood-burning process. All materials provided.

Thank you to support from Elora Fergus Tourism and RT04 for this Winter Wellness initiative.

The Georgian Bay Series AFTER VARLEY
2025-03-15 10:00 - 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
OIL PAINTING WITH RICK WORTHINGTON
Rescheduled to Saturday, March 15.
The third in our GEORGIAN BAY series celebrating the work of members of the Group of 7, AFTER VARLEY is an intermediate oil painting workshop for artists with some oil experience. Create a master copy of Frederick Varley’s 1921 masterpiece, Stormy Weather, Georgian Bay.

This iconic painting captures the rugged essence of the Canadian Shield with its windswept pines, churning waves, and dynamic sky. Copying a master’s work is one of the most effective ways to deepen your understanding of technique and style.
In this class, you’ll learn how to simplify bold shapes to build a strong composition, capture the dramatic atmosphere of stormy skies and water, mix a harmonious palette of cool tones, and use brushwork to add texture while maintaining Harris’s distinctive stylized aesthetic. With personalized guidance and demonstrations, you’ll gain valuable skills to enhance your painting practice.

Please note, there is a $25 Kit fee payable to Rick in cash at the start of class.
All materials are included in the kit fee; oil paint, canvas, odourless solvent, reference image, grey scale for colour mixing, brushes etc.
Contact us for more info!

Artists Inspiring Artists - a FREE series to ignite creativity, presented by the Canadian Opera Company!
2025-03-17 17:30 - 19:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Calling all creative people in our community who want to be inspired! Join the Canadian Opera Company and Elora Centre for the Arts for a transformative evening workshop designed to fuel your artistic spirit. Hosted by Renée Salewski, a talented Teaching Artist from the Canadian Opera Company, this workshop is crafted to push you beyond your artistic boundaries. Explore new techniques and perspectives through improv, acting, creative writing, and visual art.

This is open to artists from all disciplines, inviting participants to step outside of their comfort zones and learn innovative strategies that can enhance any artistic pursuit. Whether you’re a dancer, actor, musician, writer, or visual artist, there’s something for everyone.
Details:

Location: in the gallery at the Elora Centre for the Arts
Cost: FREE! (thanks to the generosity of the Canadian Opera Company)
When: March 17
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 PM
Registration is required – sign up now to reserve your spot (scroll down for registration – limited spaces available)

This is a unique opportunity to learn from a talented performer and teaching artist in a welcoming and supportive environment. Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with other creatives and elevate your artistic journey in 2025!

Photo credits (below) Karen E. Reeves, Taylor Long, Adobe Stock

SUPPORTIVE ARTS WEDNESDAY MORNINGS
2025-03-19 10:00 - 2025-06-18 12:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
SUPPORTIVE ARTS SPRING
WEDNESDAY MORNINGS
10 AM – 12 PM
MARCH 19-JUNE 18, 2025

Weekly inclusive art & mindfulness classes for adults with varying abilities. We offer Wednesday morning and Thursday classes, September-June!

SUPPORTIVE ARTS is a unique program offering arts-based learning opportunities and compelling artistic experiences to individuals with varying abilities. We welcome adults and caregivers from Wellington County and the surrounding areas to our weekly program, led by ECFTA Arts Educators and Mindfulness Coach.
Join us for a guided 2-hour workshop designed to support adults of all abilities. Each session, we embrace diversity and friendship through explorations in art making, movement, mindfulness and music. Every week is as unique as each of our participants!
Our bright and cheerful ECFTA classroom is wheelchair accessible and accommodates up to 14 participants, with accompanying support workers and volunteers.
The 2025 Supportive Arts season is supported by;

The W.C. Wood Foundation
The Dalglish Family Foundation
Lindy Green Family Foundation
Rotary Club of Fergus/Elora
Neal & Kathryn Foot
The Marjorie and Joseph Wright Memorial Foundation
And many generous individual donors

We thank you!

REFUNDS There are no refunds for missed classes. If you are unable to attend for any reason, classes are transferrable to another participant.
PAYMENT can be made using a credit card by registering below. Registration & payment via e-transfer or personal cheque are also accepted by contacting Judy
Please contact us for more information or availability on our waitlist.
Visit our Facebook page for photos and updates!

SUPPORTIVE ARTS THURSDAY MORNINGS
2025-03-20 10:00 - 2025-06-19 12:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
SUPPORTIVE ARTS SPRING
THURSDAY MORNINGS
10 AM–12 PM
MARCH 20-JUNE 19, 2025
Weekly inclusive art & mindfulness classes for adults with varying abilities. We offer Wednesday morning, Thursday morning & Thursday afternoon classes, September-June!

SUPPORTIVE ARTS is a unique program offering arts-based learning opportunities and compelling artistic experiences to individuals with varying abilities. We welcome adults and caregivers from Wellington County and the surrounding areas to our weekly program, led by ECFTA Arts Educators and Mindfulness Coach.
Join us for a guided 2-hour workshop designed to support adults of all abilities. Each session, we embrace diversity and friendship through explorations in art making, movement, mindfulness and music. Every week is as unique as each of our participants!
Our bright and cheerful ECFTA classroom is wheelchair accessible and accommodates up to 14 participants, with accompanying support workers and volunteers.
The 2025 Supportive Arts season is supported by;

The W.C. Wood Foundation
The Dalglish Family Foundation
Lindy Green Family Foundation
Rotary Club of Fergus/Elora
Neal & Kathryn Foot
The Marjorie and Joseph Wright Memorial Foundation
And many generous individual donors

We thank you!

REFUNDS There are no refunds for missed classes. If you are unable to attend for any reason, classes are transferrable to another participant.
PAYMENT can be made using a credit card by registering below. Registration & payment via e-transfer or personal cheque are also accepted by contacting Judy
Please contact us for more information or availability on our waitlist.
Visit our Facebook page for photos and updates!

MAUD LEWIS TULIPS! PUNCH NEEDLE RUG HOOKING
2025-03-22 10:00 - 15:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Let’s paint with yarn! Join textile artist Caitlin Barrie for a guided introduction to the traditional art of punch needle rug hooking! Join us for an immersive day and create your own a 9.5″ x 9.5″ vibrant punch needle rug inspired by Nova Scotian Folk Artist, Maud Lewis’s lively painting Tulips!
No experience is necessary,

Please note, there is a $35 kit fee payable to the instructor at the start of class. Cash or e transfer. All materials are provided in the fee.
Contact us for more info!

GARDEN COTTAGE OIL PAINTING WITH RICK WORTHINGTON
2025-03-23 10:00 - 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Spring greens can be tricky to work with. Join Elora artist Rick Worthington and learn to tame “the green” using techniques inspired by the Impressionists in the full-day, relaxed introduction to oil painting.
Working from Rick’s original plein air sketch, students will learn how to bring a dynamic, authentic feel to their painting journey!
Through step-by-step demonstrations and individual guidance, Rick will introduce essential concepts like composition, contrast, and atmospheric depth. Artists will learn to use a limited palette of warm and cool primaries, develope colour-mixing skills while keeping colours fresh and vibrant.
Bring your enthusiasm and enjoy a fun, creative day of painting!
Please note, there is a $25 Kit fee payable to Rick in cash at the start of clas. All materials are provided through the kit fee; canvas, odourless solvent, reference image, grey scale for colour mixing, brushes etc.

REDUCTIVE LINOBLOCK PRINTMAKING WITH AHMRI VANDEBORNE
2025-03-29 13:00 - 2025-04-05 15:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
2-SATURDAY WORKSHOP MARCH 29 & APRIL 5
Learn the tools and techniques needed to create a two-colour image through reductive linoblock printmaking with artist Ahmri Vandeborne!
Reductive lino prints are created through a process of designing an image and selectively carving away details to print each new colour layer.

Participants will learn to create a design in two parts, carve their lino, and print their piece in layers. Each artist will go home with a unique edition of prints to keep for themselves or to gift away. No previous printmaking experience required.
Please note. There is a $10 kit fee, payable to the instructor in cash at the start of class. All materials included in the kit fee.
Contact us for more info!

HOW TO BUILD A PAINTING WEDNESDAY NIGHT OIL PAINTING
2025-04-09 19:00 - 2025-05-07 21:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
WEDNESDAY NIGHT OIL PAINTING WITH RICK WORTHINGTON
4-WEEK WEDNESDAY SERIES
How to Build an Oil Painting is designed to gently guides students through Elora artist Rick Worthington’s unique process of creating an oil painting from start to finish. Throughout the course, students will learn how to choose a color palette, sketch out a drawing, block in shapes, and layer oil paints to bring a piece to life!
Over the course of 4 Wednesdays, participants will be offered personalized guidance, live demonstrations, and learn how to simplify complex reference photos, how to develop a strong composition, and helpful cost-saving tips—such as using gesso on paper, and selecting materials.

Please note there is a $20 Kit fee payable to the instructor in cash at the start of class. Kit fee includes oil paint, odourless solvent, brushes, canvas etc.
Students are required to bring their own heavyweight paper sketchbook and source photos to work from. Interior, still life or landscape images are all welcome.
An email will be sent out with suggestions for source photos and sketchbooks brands, closer to the class date.

DRAWING FOR ADULTS WITH EILEEN MACARTHUR
2025-04-27 12:30 - 2025-05-04 15:30 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Join artist Eileen MacArthur April 27 and May 4 for this two-Sunday introduction to the basic concepts of studio drawing. Students will work with graphite, conte and charcoal and explore the use of line, shape, value, proportion and composition. Using a still life set-up, there will be time for group and individual critique. This class will focus on observational drawing from life and how to draw what you see. All skill levels welcome!

All materials are included.
Contact us for more info!

PAINTING OUTSIDE! FAMILY PLEIN AIR
2025-05-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Join in our local celebration of plein air painting this May in this 2-hour quick-paint class with artist Eileen MacArthur! Family Plein Air is a fun indoor-outdoor, family-friendly paint for all ages who want to experience art-making together!

Families will begin with a 45 minute lesson with Eileen in the ECFTA studio classroom and learn to draw some basic shapes from nature, colour mixing for landscape painting, along with methods and materials artists use to paint outside.
For the remainder of the workshop, we will move outside and paint from observation, en plein air! Artists, young and old(er) will focus on simple compositions and quick sketches, working in the great outdoors! Rain or shine.
Contact us for more info!

ABSTRACT EMBROIDERY WITH AHMRI VANDEBORNE
2025-05-15 18:00 - 21:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Artist Ahmri Vandeborne joins us for a Thursday evening introduction to embroidery this May. Learn how to take an abstract idea from paper to fabric in this easy-going, loose and freestyle approach to embroidery!

The evening will begin with a brief overview of contemporary and historical abstract art to help inspire your imagery and design a concept. Participants will be guided through simple hand embroidery stitches to help embellish their design and will be encouraged to trust intuition while working on an abstract piece.
This 3-hour workshop teaches basic embroidery skills and encourages participants to finish their design at home. No experience required.
Please note, there is a $10 kit fee, payable to the instructor at the start of class. All materials included in the kit fee.
Contact us for more info!

INTUITIVE ABSTRACT PAINTING
2025-05-31 10:00 - 2025-06-01 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
One spot left!
Join Stratford artist Sal Cucci for an introduction to intuitive abstracts and explore your personal expression in this playful and inclusive weekend!
This immersive 2-day workshop will appeal to painters of any level, whether you are beginning your abstract journey, or would like to deepen your practice.

Day one, artists will be guided through the basics of colour theory; tools and techniques for abstraction; experimentation and intuitive concept; composition; paints, additives, and the use of modelling paste and palette knives.
On day two, explore and experiment through the creation your abstract canvas, while sharing and learning from other students as you explore your own unique creative intuition!
Students will have the opportunity to create more than one canvas if time allows.
All materials included.

SPARROW'S NEST COMMUNITY MAKERSPACE. ADULT DROP-IN
2025-09-08 - 2026-06-19 | Ontario
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!

In the Nest, we believe that creative expression nurtures well-being and connection to others and we understand that healthy communities need inclusive spaces away from home, work and school for connection and creativity!

TEA SOCIAL FRIDAYS WITH STEPHANIE LINES-TOOHILL
EVERY FRIDAY 10.30 am – 12.30pm
September-June. No need to register.
$10 cash. All materials included.
A welcome space for social connection away from a busy world. Optional gently guided crafting with a hot drink. Explore and Make with our materials or bring your own project work. All abilities welcome!
Sessions run every Friday, except for holidays and school PD days and March Break.
For more information, visit the NEST or EMAIL us!

MIXED MEDIA DROP-IN WITH MICHELLE WRIGHT
EVERY FRIDAY 1 – 3pm
September -June. No need to register.
$10 cash. All materials included.
Gently guided by Maker Michelle Wright. Low pressure, small ARTS projects using repurposed materials. Come to explore, nurture and create! All abilities welcome!
Sessions run every Friday, except for holidays, school PD days, and March Break.
For more information, visit the NEST or EMAIL us!

In the Nest, our focus is to reduce barriers to participation for all ages and abilities in an inspiring and welcoming space. Our doors are open to all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and experiences.
Whether you’re a curious beginner, or simply someone looking to connect and create, sparrows remind us that small actions can create beautiful moments in a big world!

Check out the NEST CALENDAR for more Drop-In activities for Adults!
For more information about The Sparrow’s Nest contact us!
Visit our Facebook page for photos and updates!
To help support this program by donating today, please click here. Select the Programming & Operations fund and write us a private message, asking us to direct the funds to The Sparrow’s Nest.
