Elora Centre for the Arts

FREEFORM FIBRE SCULPTURE
2025-05-25 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Toronto) | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
COILING, WRAPPING & FREESTYLE WEAVING with Dianne Kennedy Cruttenden
Join Tapestry Weaver and Fibre Sculptor Dianne KC and let loose for a day of creative expression coiling, wrapping, twisting and creating your unique freeform sculpture!

Dive into the world of creative expression and weaving techniques to craft a unique, one-of-a-kind piece. Whether you’re twisting fibres together in bold spirals, layering them in intricate patterns, or weaving them in imaginative ways, the possibilities are endless. Embrace the freedom to explore textures, shapes, and colors, and let your hands bring your wildest ideas to life in a fun and playful way. Perfect for artists, crafters and all lovers of fibre this is a chance to break away from traditional methods and discover the joy of unrestricted creativity!
Dianne will supply an array of colourful yarn (including some of her special Hand dyed and hand spun yarn), twine, fabric, wire and armatures, even some natural elements for you to create with. Everything you will need to explore ‘Freeform Fibre Sculpture’.
If you have some special found objects you would like to incorporate, bring them along. Dianne will have a number of her finished Sculptures for you to see and give you an idea of what’s possible.
Please note, there is a $30 kit fee, payable to the instructor in cash at the start of class.

Meet the artists of "Sticks and Stones" Opening Reception
2025-05-25 14:00 - 16:00
Opening Reception: Olivia Mae Sinclair & Alek Bélanger
An Exhibition of Story, Resilience & Renewal
Admission is Free
You’re invited to join us for the opening reception of a compelling new exhibition featuring the works of two incredible artists: Olivia Mae Sinclair and Alek Bélanger.
This dynamic exhibition brings together Sinclair’s richly layered textiles, emotive paintings, and evocative photography with Belanger’s powerful visual reclamation—where poetic affirmations are embedded on pages pulled from gay conversion therapy books, alongside large-scale photographic works that challenge and inspire.

We first encountered Olivia Mae Sinclair and Alek Bélanger at the Artist Project in Toronto, where each artist was featured individually. Their work—intimate, courageous, and deeply human—resonated with us. We knew immediately we wanted to bring them together for a group show here at The Arts Centre. They enthusiastically accepted the invitation, eager to share their unique voices and creative practices with our community.
Curated in collaboration with Sylvia Galbraith, this exhibition invites reflection on transformation, identity, and the power of artistic expression to reframe narratives and spark dialogue.
Join us in the gallery for refreshments, engaging conversation, and the opportunity to meet both artists in person. Be among the first to experience this thoughtful and vibrant presentation of work—and (hopefully!) leave seeing the world in a slightly new way.
We can’t wait to welcome you.

BREAKING BOUNDARIES: USING LIMITATIONS TO EXPAND CREATIVITY IN PAINTING WITH AHMRI VANDEBORNE
2025-05-29 18:00 - 21:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Find out how creative you can be when you set your own rules while painting! What happens when you only use two colours? Or when you have to use a tiny paint brush on a large canvas? Or when you use dice to choose what type of lines you paint and what colours you use?
In this workshop, participants will learn about the famous conceptual artist, Sol Lewitt, whose wall drawings have been recreated by all types of people based on his instructions. Each time the works are recreated, whether by the artist himself or other artists, volunteers, or assistants, they are a unique iteration – proving that following a set of guidelines can burst creative boundaries.

Using warm-up exercises and learning about basic painting techniques, participants will be inspired to create their own set of rules or guidelines to help inspire a new painting to take home.
Though not mandatory, if participants are interested in trying their hand at manipulating an image through painting, they are encouraged to bring their own image with them (printed, or on a phone) to work from.
Artist Ahmri Vandeborne will guide artists in a playful evening workshop setting limitations on tools and processes to help expand your creativity. Ahmri will offer examples of different types of processes that could be used to set limitations, artists will then choose “how” they would like to paint and create an image based on the guidelines they’ve set for themselves.
Let’s gather to make something unique and think outside the box!
No experience necessary.
Please note, there is a $10 kits fee payable in cash 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.

LET'S VAN GO! JUNE PA DAY FOR KIDS
2025-06-06 09:00 - 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
One spot left!
Young makers! Take a stroll through the vibrant world of Vincent Van Gogh and explore his use of colour and line to create motion, emotion, and intensity! Let’s explore the sunny side of painting and using LOTS of vibrant yellow, yellow, yellow and practice Impressionist methods of art-making, as we work together to recreate Van Gogh’s luminous sunflowers on canvas!
Our PA days are designed to inspire 36 young artists! Led by ECFTA Arts Educators and student staff, we will work in 2 groups in both our cheery Art Classroom and sunny Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space.
PA days are a balance of guided-art instruction and open-flow exploration, along with outdoor fresh air play as always!
To ensure that your child is ready for a full day of art making and fun!

A healthy morning snack + and lunch
An afternoon snack will be offered to keep the energy going
Refillable water bottle
Dress for the weather and for art making!

At the Elora Centre for the Arts, we strive to support ALL children who would like to attend our programs! We make every effort to accommodate the varying needs of all our Young Makers. Please note however, we are not able to offer full-day, one-on-one support to children with additional needs.
For more information, please contact Judy

Ontario Craft Gin Festival 2025 (TICKETS AVAILABLE AT DOOR)
2025-06-07 11:00 - 18:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
TICKETS ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE ONLINE BUT ARE BEING SOLD AT THE DOOR! Please join us today!
The Ontario Craft Gin Trail invites you to the Craft Gin Festival on the grounds of the Elora Centre for the Arts. This is a 19+ event.
Tickets available at the door for $20 cash only.
Gin Lovers Unite!

Come meet artisan makers and sample craft gins from across the region. Featuring spirits from:

Elora Distilling Co.
Paradigm Spirits Co.
Dixons Distilled Spirits
Maverick Distillery Limited
John Sleeman and Sons – Spring Mill Distillery
Willibald Farm Distillery & Brewery
Last Straw Distillery
Manns Distillery
Junction 56
Silver Fox Distillery

For more information on live music, food vendors, and more, please visit www.CraftGinTrail.com!
Questions about the event? Contact Marty at Marty@eloradistillingcompany.com

'Open Sky Live' - Live at the Arts Centre - featuring The Jiggity James Band
2025-06-12 18:00 - 21:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Welcome Back, Summer!
Get ready for warm nights, great music, and community vibes — our free OPEN SKY LIVE Summer Concert Series is back, every other Thursday starting June 12!
The series is presented in partnership with our friends at Tribute Homes, Sorbara Group of Companies and Storybrook Homes.
Starting us off is The Jiggity James Band, live on the MacDonald Pavilion Stage at the Arts Centre! This performance is presented in partnership with SV Law.

About Jiggity James
In many ways, Jiggity James is the quintessential small-town Canadian, but inside beats the heart of a journeyman and storyteller. Hailing from Elora, Ontario, his affinity for music began when he was a young boy, but it wasn’t until he started traveling at the age of 18 that he found his true voice.
He draws inspiration from his experiences on the road, the blend of jazz, country, ragtime and blues, creating a whole that is entirely his own. Music will always feel like home to Jiggity James, whether he’s road-tripping across Canada or travelling around Europe. His recent releases including “Tango to Calamity,” “Gringo,” and “That Stare” are available wherever good music is streamed. Find out more
✨ Bonus: Our camper bar will be open at each event, serving up refreshing drinks to keep the good vibes flowing! 🍺
See you under the open sky!

🎶 ‘Open Sky’ Concert Series Highlights:

When: Every other Thursday from 6-9 PM, all summer long

Where: MacDonald Pavilion Stage in the yard at the Elora Centre for the Arts

Cost: FREE (donations appreciated!). Cash Bar (credit/debit also accepted on site)
(Every dollar supports our exciting new expansion project!)

Join us for 8 Thursday evenings of live music under the open sky, right from our scenic pavilion stage. Bring your picnic blanket or lawn chair, relax as the sun sets behind the stage, and soak in performances by an incredible lineup of talented musicians, curated by Riverfest Elora! Connect with friends, neighbours and fellow music lovers — it’s the perfect summer tradition. Find out more

🎉 A huge thank you to our amazing volunteers and generous sponsors who make this concert series possible.

'The Secret Garden' presented by the Elora Community Theatre (evening performance)
2025-06-13 19:30 - 21:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Join us for an open-air performance in the beautiful yard at the Elora Centre for the Arts, presented on the pavilion stage by the Elora Community Theatre!

A bit about THE SECRET GARDEN based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett:
Mary Lennox, a spoiled, ill-tempered, and unhealthy child, comes to live with her reclusive uncle at Misselthwaite Manor on England’s Yorkshire moors after the death of her parents in India. There she meets a hearty housekeeper and her spirited brother, a cheerful robin, and her willful, hysterical, and sickly cousin, Master Colin, whose wails she hears echoing through the house at night.

With the help of the robin, Mary finds the door to a secret garden, neglected and hidden for years. When she decides to restore the garden in secret, the story becomes a charming journey into the places of the heart, where faith restores health, flowers refresh the spirit, and the magic of the garden, coming to life anew, brings health to Colin and happiness to Mary.
Approximate running time (including intermission) 90 minutes.
Ticket Information:
Adult tickets: $25 ($22.12 + HST)
Youth 12 and under: $15 (no tax)
Tickets can be purchased in advance until 9PM the day before the performance (scroll down to purchase now!). After that, you can purchase tickets at the door on the day of the performance (cash only).
Rain / Cancellation Policy:
If weather requires the performance to be cancelled, every effort will be made to contact ticket purchasers. Tickets may be exchanged for another performance of the show in the event of inclement weather. Please contact the Director Deb Stanson with any questions debstanson@gmail.com

FLOW+GLOW! ART & MOVEMENT CAMP
2025-07-02 09:00 - 2025-07-04 15:30 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
3-DAY CAMP FOR AGES 4-7
If your budding artist loves art, with a little get-up-and-go mixed in, this ART + MOVEMENT camp is for you!
We’ll invent our own junior yoga moves and get those ants in your pants dancing and singing, along with playful creativity and friend-making!

Our Summer Camps are designed to inspire 36 young artists each week! Led by ECFTA Arts Educators and 7 summer student staff, camp will take place in our cheery Art Classroom and sunny Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space.
Camps are a balance of guided-art instruction and open-flow exploration, along with outdoor fresh air play as always!

Come prepared for a great 3 days!

A mid-morning snack and lunch
A nut-free afternoon snack will be offered to keep the energy going
Refillable water bottle
A spare set of clothes is encouraged for the week
Dress for the weather and for art-making!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

Opening Reception - meet Eileen MacArthur as she launches 'Eden'
2025-07-06 14:00 - 16:00
Join us in the gallery as we officially reveal Eileen MacArthur’s new exhibition, ‘Eden’. These works invite us to see parts of nature—like flowers and trees—as if they have human qualities. By doing this, we can think about how people relate to each other and the world around them. Nature isn’t shown as separate or alone, but as part of a bigger community. The natural elements become a way to talk not just about individual experiences, but also about the dynamics of groups and how we all connect in society.
Refreshments will be served, admission is free. Drop in and say hello, mingle and help uplift the arts, and our community of artists!

ART THEN+NOW! MINI MASTERS CAMP
2025-07-07 09:00 - 2025-07-11 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
5-DAY CAMP FOR AGES 7-12
Let’s time-jump into the art time machine and look at Art THEN + NOW! This camp is full-on art making, trying out new materials, and exploring the connections between art today and art of the past!

We’ll think about what it means to always be in the “middle” of art-history as we simultaneously look backward and forward. Together, we’ll imagine what art of the future will look like!

Our Summer Camps are designed to inspire 36 young artists each week! Led by ECFTA Arts Educators and 7 summer student staff, camp will take place in our cheery Art Classroom and sunny Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space.
Camps are a balance of guided-art instruction and open-flow exploration, along with outdoor fresh air play as always!

Come prepared for a great week!

A mid-morning snack and lunch
A nut-free afternoon snack will be offered to keep the energy going
Refillable water bottle
A spare set of clothes is encouraged for the week
Dress for the weather and for art-making!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

ART TECHS! THE SCIENCE OF ART CAMP
2025-07-14 09:00 - 2025-07-18 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
5 DAY CAMP FOR AGES 7-12
If you love to experiment, innovate, and collaborate then this camp is for you! This STE(A)M-injected camp brings super-sonic art making to young artists who love bright colours, bright ideas and are curious about how science and tech can POWER their ART explorations!

Our Summer Camps are designed to inspire 36 young artists each week! Led by ECFTA Arts Educators and 7 summer student staff, camp will take place in our cheery Art Classroom and sunny Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space.
Camps are a balance of guided-art instruction and open-flow exploration, along with outdoor fresh air play as always!

Come prepared for a great week!

A mid-morning snack and lunch
A nut-free afternoon snack will be offered to keep the energy going
Refillable water bottle
A spare set of clothes is encouraged for the week
Dress for the weather and for art-making!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

'The Merry Wives of Windsor' Shakespeare in the Yard presented by the Elora Community Theatre (evening)
2025-07-18 20:00 - 21:30 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
The Merry Wives of Windsor will be performed on the pavilion stage this summer – in the yard at the Elora Centre for the Arts, presented by The Elora Community Theatre. Scroll down to view dates, times and purchase your tickets now!

About The Merry Wives of Windsor, a comedy by William Shakespeare
Falstaff decides to fix his financial woe by seducing the wives of two wealthy merchants. The wives find out that he sent them identical letters and take revenge by playing tricks on Falstaff when he comes calling. With the help of their husbands and friends, the wives play one last trick in the woods to put Falstaff’s mischief to an end.
Approximate running time (including intermission) 90 minutes.
Ticket Information:
Adult tickets: $25 ($22.12 + HST)
Youth 12 and under: $15 (no tax)
Tickets can be purchased in advance until 9PM the day before the performance (scroll down to purchase now!). After that, you can purchase tickets at the door on the day of the performance (cash only).
Rain / Cancellation Policy:
If weather requires the performance to be cancelled, every effort will be made to contact ticket purchasers. Tickets may be exchanged for another performance of the show in the event of inclement weather. Please contact the Director Deb Stanson with any questions debstanson@gmail.com

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ART! THE ART OF NATURE CAMP
2025-07-21 09:00 - 2025-07-25 15:30 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
5-DAY CAMP FOR AGES 4-7
Let’s answer the call of the wild in this nature-inspired camp, designed to bring out the WILD artist in you! We’ll use our creative nature to wander, wonder and engage with the wild world all around us in a week of fresh-air creativity, nature explorations and outdoor play!

Our Summer Camps are designed to inspire 36 young artists each week! Led by ECFTA Arts Educators and 7 summer student staff, camp will take place in our cheery Art Classroom and sunny Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space.
Camps are a balance of guided-art instruction and open-flow exploration, along with outdoor fresh air play as always!

Come prepared for a great week!

A mid-morning snack and lunch
A nut-free afternoon snack will be offered to keep the energy going
Refillable water bottle
A spare set of clothes is encouraged for the week
Dress for the weather and for art-making!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

ALEXANDER CALDER! KINETIC CIRCUS CAMP
2025-07-28 09:00 - 2025-08-01 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
5-DAY CAMP FOR AGES 7-12
Ready for a week of avant-garde awesomeness? This kinetic camp will introduce young artists to American Modernist, Alexander Calder’s 1931 Cirque! A moveable feast of characters, contortionists, fire eaters, hi-wire performers and circus animals. We will spend the week creating our own kinetic circus fun!

Our Summer Camps are designed to inspire 36 young artists each week! Led by ECFTA Arts Educators and 7 summer student staff, camp will take place in our cheery Art Classroom and sunny Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space.
Camps are a balance of guided-art instruction and open-flow exploration, along with outdoor fresh air play as always!

Come prepared for a great week!

A mid-morning snack and lunch
A nut-free afternoon snack will be offered to keep the energy going
Refillable water bottle
A spare set of clothes is encouraged for the week
Dress for the weather and for art-making!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

Elora's Longest BBQ — come see us in the FREE DIY Kids Area!
2025-07-29 16:00 - 22:00
Canada’s ultimate BBQ — and the official kick-off for Food Day Canada — returns to Elora on July 29! It’s an unforgettable celebration of Canadian cuisine featuring over 25 local restaurant and drink vendors, family-friendly activities, and a special appearance by Chef Michael Smith, who’ll be shucking oysters live on the pedestrian bridge near the Elora Mill.
Admission is free! Food and beverage tickets are available online or at the event. More info here.
Come visit us in the FREE DIY KIDS ZONE in the red chair park, where kiddos can make fun crafts with Elora Centre for the Arts volunteers and see artists from the Schoolhouse Arts Collective painting live!

POP UP BOOKS! STORYBOOK ART CAMP
2025-08-05 09:00 - 2025-08-08 15:30 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
4-DAY CAMP FOR AGES 4-7
Junior artists! Turn your fave book into a power pop-up 3-D Diorama Story Box. We will start each morning with a story and then get to work exploring visual story-making and transform our own favourite stories from home into sculptural ART!

Please bring your favourite storybook from home, with your child’s name. We will be reading these stories and using them as inspiration for our art-making! Books will be returned home at the end of the week.

Our Summer Camps are designed to inspire 36 young artists each week! Led by ECFTA Arts Educators and 7 summer student staff, camp will take place in our cheery Art Classroom and sunny Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space.
Camps are a balance of guided-art instruction and open-flow exploration, along with outdoor fresh air play as always!

Come prepared for a great week!

A mid-morning snack and lunch
A nut-free afternoon snack will be offered to keep the energy going
Refillable water bottle
A spare set of clothes is encouraged for the week
Dress for the weather and for art-making
Bring your child’s favourite book for inspiration!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

POP UP BOOKS! YOUR FAVE KIDS-LIT CAMP
2025-08-11 09:00 - 2025-08-15 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
5-DAY CAMP FOR AGES 7-12
Young Makers! Turn your fave book into a power pop-up Diorama Story Box. Let’s explore visual story making and transform each of our favourite storybooks from home into sculptural Kid-Lit ART!

Please bring your favourite storybook from home, with your child’s name. We will be reading these stories and using them as inspiration for our art-making! Books will be returned home at the end of the week.

Our Summer Camps are designed to inspire 36 young artists each week! Led by ECFTA Arts Educators and 7 summer student staff, camp will take place in our cheery Art Classroom and sunny Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space.
Camps are a balance of guided-art instruction and open-flow exploration, along with outdoor fresh air play as always!

Come prepared for a great week!

A mid-morning snack and lunch
A nut-free afternoon snack will be offered to keep the energy going
Refillable water bottle
A spare set of clothes in encouraged for the week
Please bring a larger shoe or boot box
Bring your child’s favourite book for inspiration
Dress for the weather and for art-making!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

EARLY BIRDS+NIGHT OWLS! RISE+SOAR CAMP
2025-08-18 09:00 - 2025-08-22 15:30 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
5-DAY CAMP FOR AGES 4-7
Birds of a feather flock together in this week of high-flying fun! Join us for creative making inspired by our feathery friends! Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl we’ll spread our art wings and soar together and make memories that take flight!

Our Summer Camps are designed to inspire 36 young artists each week! Led by ECFTA Arts Educators and 7 summer student staff, camp will take place in our cheery Art Classroom and sunny Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space.
Camps are a balance of guided-art instruction and open-flow exploration, along with outdoor fresh air play as always!

Come prepared for a great week!

A mid-morning snack and lunch
A nut-free afternoon snack will be offered to keep the energy going
Refillable water bottle
A spare set of clothes is encouraged for the week
Dress for the weather and for art-making!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

DARK SHADOWS! THE IMAGINARIUM OF EDWARD GOREY CAMP
2025-08-25 09:00 - 2025-08-28 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
4-DAY CAMP FOR AGES 7-12
Love to draw and shadowy storytelling?! Join us for some old-timey illustration inspired by American Gothic writer and illustrator Edward Gorey. Let’s explore the world of fancy-fine-line drawing, graphic story-telling and dark humour in this week of drawing and doodling.

Our Summer Camps are designed to inspire 36 young artists each week! Led by ECFTA Arts Educators and 7 summer student staff, camp will take place in our cheery Art Classroom and sunny Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space.
Camps are a balance of guided-art instruction and open-flow exploration, along with outdoor fresh air play as always!

Come prepared for a great week!

A mid-morning snack and lunch
A nut-free afternoon snack will be offered to keep the energy going
Refillable water bottle
A spare set of clothes is encouraged for the week
Dress for the weather and for art-making!

Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

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

SPARROW’S NEST is generously sponsored by a community donor.
To help support this program by donating today, please click here.

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!

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

SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS TO THE ART CENTRE. LEARN. DISCOVER. CREATE!
2025-09-15 - 2027-06-18
We welcome SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS for Grades K-12!
Morning or afternoon sessions designed to inspire creativity and connect learning with the arts. Experience the power of Art in our art classroom and newly expanded Gallery + Atrium at the Elora Centre for the Arts.

At the Elora Centre for the Arts, we offer a balance of discussion, exploration, and hands-on art-making that supports learning and sparks imagination. Programs are tailored to complement the current exhibition themes in our gallery. Students will encounter fresh ideas and artwork throughout the school year, September to June.

2–2.5 hour sessions
An interactive learning experience led by an ECFTA Artist-Educator
Visit the current exhibition in our main gallery and learn something new about the creative process.
Create a hands-on art project in our art classroom, connecting students to learning and the exhibition
We can accommodate up to 2 rotating classes per visit (dependent on class size)
$10 per student

Book your school visit today and give your students the gift of creativity, discovery and inspiration at the Art Centre!

For more information or to book, please contact Judy

BURSARIES FOR CHILDREN & YOUTH
2025-09-15 09:00 - 2026-09-14 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Our Bursary Program is now CLOSED.
We are grateful for the opportunity to support families in our community,.
All 2025–2026 funds have been awarded to deserving recipients.
Bursaries are designed to reduce financial barriers to families and assist with fees for workshops, classes, and camps to ensure that art participation remain accessible to our community, regardless of income.

Bursaries will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority for first-time applicants-no proof of income is required.
Each bursary covers up to 50–100% of program costs, depending on available funding.
Priority will be given to providing support to as many families as possible in our community.
There is a $375 annual limit per child.
To apply, please fill out the FORM below.
Pending approval, allow for 7 days of submitting your application.

For more information about this program please contact us
2025–26 BURSARIES FOR CHILDREN & YOUTH are made possible through the generous sponsorship of SKYLINE.

A cross-Country book tour & workshop event
2025-09-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
You’re Invited: Book Launch Reading, Workshop & Interactive Art Experience!
Join us at the gallery for a special evening on the cross-country book tour launch of two remarkable Canadian authors, Kevin Andrew Heslop and Joanna Cockerline!
The event begins with an immersive creative workshop led by both authors — an inspiring opportunity for writers, artists, and curious minds alike. Following the workshop, enjoy a live reading and discussion as Kevin and Joanna share from their newly published works.

Join us for an inspiring evening that blends storytelling, creative exploration, and tactile art.
The event will open with a reading featuring two writers sharing both fiction and non-fiction work (approximately 20 minutes each), followed by a Q&A and open discussion with the audience.
After the reading, participants are invited to take part in a writing workshop that will offer insights into both fiction and non-fiction writing. Attendees are encouraged to bring a notebook or laptop, as well as up to two pages of writing they would like to share and workshop in a supportive setting.
Complementing the literary experience is a collection of interactive art sculptures by Leslie Putnam. These tactile works—displayed on our book table—reflect themes of transformation and healing found in the readings. Attendees are welcome to touch, hold, and engage with the art throughout the evening.
Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or simply curious, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect through words and art.
Kevin Andrew Heslop presents The Writing on the Wind’s Wall, a compelling and tender inquiry into the experiences of those affected by Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) in his hometown of London, Ontario. The book is shaped by family connections and a decade of deep conversations with writers and artists around the world.
Joanna Cockerline introduces Still, a gripping novel set on the streets of Kelowna, BC. It follows Kayla, who lives and works on the street, and Little Zoe, a sex trade worker who is missing. The story paints an intimate portrait of survival, community, and the search for home within oneself.
Free admission — no registration required.
Elora Centre for the Arts Gallery
Read more about the authors and their work below. Come be inspired!

SUPPORTIVE ARTS THURSDAY MORNINGS
2025-09-18 10:00 - 2025-12-18 12:00
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!

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.
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;

WC Wood Foundation
Rotary Club of Fergus/Elora
The Township of Centre Wellington
The Foot Family Fund
Marjorie and Joseph Wright Memorial Foundation
And many generous individual donors from our community

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!

Opening Reception Event in the Gallery: Meet the Artists of the Elora Fergus Studio Tour 2025
2025-09-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Mark your calendars: this is an event you don’t want to miss!

Not only will you enjoy fresh new art; there will be a $500 door prize, catered food, and the fun of mingling with your favourite artists!

Meet and mingle with the artists of the Elora Fergus Studio Tour and members of our creative community – and get a sneak peak of their work on display in the gallery before the tour begins! Refreshments and catered food will be served.
Free admission. Everyone is welcome! No tickets required.
For more information about participating artists, tour maps and event details please click here.

2026 SUMMER CAMPS!
2025-09-19 10:00 - 2026-01-26 16:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
SCROLL DOWN TO JULY-AUGUST FOR CAMP DATES & THEMES

TIPS FOR REGISTRATION!

You DO NOT need to log in to an account, or have a membership to register.
Are you already a member? Log in first.
You can add more than one camp to your cart. Just click “Keep Shopping”.

PYROGRAPHY. IGNITING THE LIGHT. MINDFULNESS, CREATIVITY, AND INTENTION SETTING
2025-09-21 18:30 - 20:30
MEDITATIVE FLOW TWILIGHT WORKSHOP
WOOD BURNING WITH HEATHER MARTIN
Join us for the September Solstice for a calming and creative evening in alignment with the New Moon and a partial solar eclipse. This is a meaningful time to pause, reflect, and set intentions for the season ahead.
Pyrography artist Heather Martin will lead a guided mindfulness practice to help center ourselves and connect inward. Using woodburning tools and intuitive art, you’ll create a personal piece that reflects your current focus, goals, or feelings. The evening will close by taking time to set clear, thoughtful intentions, supported by the energy of the new moon and the unique symbolism of the eclipse.

No artistic experience is necessary—this is about the process, not the product. Come with curiosity and leave with a sense of direction—and something you made with your own hands.
Please note, there is a $20 kit fee, payable in cash to the instructor at the start of class.

GEOMETRIC ACCENT RUG. 6-WEEK PUNCH NEEDLE EVENING SERIES
2025-09-24 18:00 - 2025-10-29 21:00 | Elora Centre for the Arts, 75 Melville Street, Elora, Ontario, N0B 1S0, Canada
Looking for a tactile design adventure to liven up your Wednesday nights? Join textile artist Caitlin Barrie this fall for 6 weeks of guided studio time and create your own approx. 20’x30′ accent rug. Whether you’re brand new or already obsessed with rug hooking, you’ll receive hands-on support and the creative freedom to punch your own one-of-a-kind rug!
Only 6 spaces available.
Wednesday evenings, Sept 24, Oct 1, Oct 8, Oct 15, Oct 22, Oct 29

In this course, participants will create a hooked accent rug, inspired by traditional and contemporary rug designs. Students will be shown how to create repeating pattern paper templates, how to develop larger pieces on a rug hooking frame, and all the techniques to create their own hand-punched rug from start to finish.

Week 1: Start your journey by creating your design and selecting your color palette. Discover the shades that speak to you and set the tone for your one-of-a-kind rug.
Weeks 2–6: Bring your vision to life with expert guidance from Caitlin.
Enjoy working hands-on and one-on-one support provided by artist Caitlin Barrie as you transform yarn into art.

Please note, there is an additional $80 material fee payable in e-transfer or cash to the instructor week one. All materials will be supplied in the kit fee.
No experience necessary!
