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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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.
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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.
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ARTFUL AGEING for Seniors is part of our expanding Outreach program, offering monthly guided art classes, designed especially for long-term care and retirement living residents. Held on-site at Heritage River and Wellington Terrace in Elora and Caressant Care, Fergus, these hands-on art classes spark conversation, promote engagement with others, and remind us all that creativity is lifelong!
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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.
Free Event
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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Join us for our final concert of the season featuring Kyle Burton live on the MacDonald Pavilion Stage at the Arts Centre! This performance is presented in partnership with Bigelow Flooring.
Join us for a night of live music that blends folk, country, Americana, and rock! Kyle Burton crafts emotionally resonant sets that draw inspiration from legends like The Eagles and The Band, as well as modern torchbearers like Tyler Childers, Zach Bryan, The Red Clay Strays, and The Glorious Sons.
Free Event
Free Event
REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
SCROLL DOWN TO JULY-AUGUST FOR CAMP DATES & THEMES
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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.
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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
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Team Addy and Riverfest Elora present: A Concert with Addy-Tude
The 3rd annual Addy-Tude Concert is about to blow the roof off…
WALK OFF THE EARTH is headlining!!! The chart-topping, genre-bending, Juno-winning band — performing live on our stage!
Saturday, October 4th, 2025 at the MacDonald Pavilion, Elora Centre for the Arts
Doors Open: 3:00 PM | End Time: 10:00PM
In honour of Addison “Addy” Hill 💛 All in support of Sarcoma Research at SickKids. 🎗️
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The Elora Centre for the Arts and The Nest are working together to create safe, inclusive, and inspiring programs for teens and young adults in our community. Your voice matters!
We’re inviting parents, community members, and youth (ages 13–24) to share feedback that will guide how we shape our future teen program offerings.
Free Event
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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Calling all mini mad scientists and mischievous monsters! Are you ready to create and craft your way through a PA day of creepy creativity?
Join artists Eileen MacArthur and Stephanie Lines-Toohill for a Friday bursting with hauntingly hilarious fun, both indoors and out!
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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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Sundays. October 26, November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2025
Wake up your Sunday morning with artist Donna Hull for some junior-artist studio time and dive into the fundamentals of drawing. With over 30 years of experience in the classroom and beyond, Donna brings a wealth of knowledge to this engaging 6-week series!
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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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SPARROW'S NEST MAKERSPACE is a community hub where creativity, collaboration, and kindness thrive. Where opportunities to support the voices of our youth, teen and senior 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!
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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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A CREATIVE WORKSHOP FOR KIDS WITH ERIN PERRY
Get ready for a deliciously fun art-making experience with no ovens, no utensils, and definitely no bites. In this playful hands-on workshop, led by artist and educator Erin Perry, young artists will explore the world of food-inspired art, creating colourful, imaginative treats that look good enough to eat but are made entirely from art materials!
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Join us in our newly renovated gallery and atrium to celebrate the opening of Loops, Layers, Shapes & Shadows and meet the four innovative artists behind the exhibition: David Brown, Heejung Shin, Laurie Skantzos and Michael Stecky.
These Toronto and Guelph-based artists explore the dynamic relationship between process, material, and meaning. Through their distinctive approaches, they investigate themes of transformation, rhythm, identity, and cultural heritage—reshaping everyday materials into striking art objects that challenge traditional perceptions of their mediums.
This is your chance to enjoy creative conversations, hear behind-the-scenes stories, and mingle with the community while exploring our newly enhanced gallery spaces. Experience the labour, curiosity, and bold experimentation that brings these works to life.
Admission is free. Everyone is welcome!
Free Event
Come join us in the atrium for a hands-on art experience inspired by the gallery exhibition Loops, Layers, Shapes & Shadows!
Try out some of the creative techniques used by featured artists in the show at three interactive DIY stations—each with simple instructions and all the supplies you need to dive in and make art your own. Explore, construct, fold, draw, and reconstruct your way through playful activities designed for all ages and skill levels.
Free Event
Pokemon kids! Back by popular demand. Artist Eileen MacArthur is in the house for a Saturday afternoon workshop celebrating the world of Pokemon! We will be making a Pokemon habitat using a variety of different materials and methods, including drawing, painting and sculpting!
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Young builders unite! This Minecraft-inspired world of pixel imagination is perfect for artists who love to block.
Whether you’re a master builder or just love being creative, artists Eileen MacArthur and Stephanie Lines-Toohill will guide this hands-on, class blends art with the fun of the game! No gaming experience needed, just a love for building, crafting, and storytelling!
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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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One weekend only! Saturday Nov. 29 and Sunday Nov. 30 from 10AM - 4PM.
Mark your calendars for our annual OPEN HOUSE! Our artist studios in the building will be open to the public for you to wander and shop for creative Christmas finds at affordable prices!
35 participating artists | 3 studios + our artisan shop | Hundreds of gift ideas!
Admission is free!
Free Event
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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TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY SINGLE TICKETS AVAILABLE!
Let your child's imagination fly free like snowflakes in this 3 day mini-camp December 29, 30 and 31 for ages 5-12.
Jump into a shimmering snow-kissed world where frosty dreams come alive, gently guided by ECFTA Educators' Leah Ferguson and Stephanie Lines-Toohill and sprinkle some imagination into the holidays and welcome the New Year with creativity!
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SUPPORTIVE ARTS WINTER WEDNESDAYS
10 AM – 12 PM
JANUARY 7 - MARCH 25, 2026
Weekly, inclusive art & mindfulness classes for adults with varying abilities.
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ARTFUL AGEING! WINTER WEDNESDAY AFTERNOONS
Celebrate the new year with creativity and connect with community, every Wednesday at the Elora Centre for the Arts!
Beginner-friendly art projects designed for older adults that embrace creative freedom and collaboration in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere!
If you’re looking for connection and CreativiTea, we’ve got it for you!
RECONNECT, CREATE, & CELEBRATE THE ART OF AGEING WITH IMAGINATION!
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SUPPORTIVE ARTS WINTER THURSDAYS
10 AM – 12 PM
JANUARY 8 - MARCH 26, 2026
Weekly, inclusive art & mindfulness classes for adults with varying abilities and music in partnership with the Elora Singers!
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9-WEEK AFTER SCHOOL TUESDAY PROGRAM FOR AGES 7+
The Sparrow's Nest is a gently guided inclusive space to inspire connection and creativity.
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9-WEEK AFTER SCHOOL WEDNESDAY PROGRAM FOR AGES 8+
The Sparrow's Nest is a gently guided inclusive space to inspire connection and creativity.
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9-WEEK AFTER SCHOOL THURSDAY PROGRAM FOR AGES 10+
The Sparrow's Nest is a gently guided inclusive space to inspire connection and creativity.
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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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Join us for a lively and thought-provoking Artist Panel discussion featuring the four artists of 'Loops, Layers, Shapes and Shadows': David Brown, Heejung Shin, Laurie Skantzos, and Michael Stecky - moderated by painter, writer and Professor of Art, John Kissick.
This conversation will peel back the layers of each artist’s daily practice, inviting audiences to explore how art is made, why artists push beyond the familiar, and what unfolds when creativity becomes an act of risk, renewal, and discovery.
Free Event
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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Our annual general meeting will be held as part of our Board Meeting. This informal AGM will review the year, and audited financial statements will be presented.
Everyone is welcome to attend. Please ensure your membership is current in order to vote at the AGM. Membership information can be found here.
To find out more about the upcoming AGM, our past Annual General Meetings, or review past updates from the Co-Chairs, please click here.
Free Event
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
6 WEEK SATURDAY MORNING SERIES
Jan 24, 31, Feb 14, 21, 28, Mar 7, 2026 (No class Saturday, Feb 7)
Saturday mornings have never been so wild! Join artist Donna Hull for some junior-studio time focused on drawing fundamentals. Whether your artist is new to drawing, or eager to build upon their skills, there is no better way than SKETCHING LIVE ANIMALS!
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Join local Ontario Craft distillers for an afternoon to sip and savour a wide array of Whiskeys with samples, limited edition sales, cocktails, music, and guest speakers on mixology, history, pairing, and blending. Hosted in the brand new wing of the Elora Centre for the Arts.
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Welcome to The Big Bike Film Night at Elora Centre For The Arts! Get ready for an evening filled with thrilling bike adventures and inspiring stories. Join us in the new atrium at the Arts Centre on January 24, 2026 at 7:15 PM to celebrate the beauty of cycling. Whether you're a hardcore cyclist or just love a good film, this event is perfect for everyone. Don't miss out on this exciting night!
Free Event
Join us in the gallery as we officially welcome acclaimed landscape artist Barry McCarthy and celebrate the opening of Light & Solitude: Landscapes of Spirit and Place. Enjoy a Sunday afternoon of mixing, mingling, and meaningful connection as McCarthy’s work invites us to reflect on the power and poetry of “place” - and why it matters so deeply to us all.
Free Event