Elora Centre for the Arts hosts annual open house, shopping event
ELORA – Elora Centre for the Arts’ annual Open House and Christmas Sale is set for Nov. 29 and 30 from 10am to 4pm. Admission is free.
The typically private artist studios within the Centre open their doors for all to see over the weekend, allowing visitors to explore, connect, and shop for distinctive, artist-made gifts at reasonable prices, organizers say.
With 35 participating artists, three studio collectives, and the Artisan Shop all taking part, guests can discover hundreds of inspired gift ideas, from paintings and pottery to sculpture, textiles, and handmade curiosities, organizers add.
“This is our fifth year hosting the open house and it has truly become a seasonal tradition for art lovers and holiday shoppers alike,” said Janice Thomson, a Schoolhouse Arts Collective artist set up in the building’s south end.
New this year, visitors can experience the Centre’s newly renovated gallery and atrium spaces, open to the public over the weekend.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the community into our refreshed spaces,” said arts centre executive director Lianne Carter.
“It’s wonderful to see the creative energy of this building come alive—especially during an event that celebrates collaboration and local artistry.”
The weekend will feature open studios from:
– Schoolhouse Arts Collective;
– The Sparrow’s Nest Maker Space;
– Second Floor Art Studio with artists Terry Gregg and Nancy Ariss; and
– The Artisan Shop at the Arts Centre.
“The beauty of this event is the shared sense of creativity,” added Nancy Ariss, an encaustic artist from the Second Floor Studio.
“When artists open their doors and welcome visitors in, it creates a special kind of magic,” Ariss said.
Visitors can meet artists, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and soak in the festive atmosphere while shopping for one-of-a-kind treasures, organizers say.
For more information, visit eloracentreforthearts.ca.
