Art in the Halls celebrates local artistic talents

Kawartha Lakes – The City of Kawartha Lakes is excited to welcome a new Art in the Halls exhibit at City Hall.

Art in the Halls is an exhibition program that celebrates the amazing talents of local artists, craft guilds, and community clubs. It gives artists a public and welcoming place to display and sell their artwork.

"’Art in the Halls’ is a wonderful way to celebrate the talent and creativity found across Kawartha Lakes," said Donna Goodwin, Economic Development Officer – Culture. "By opening City Hall to local artists and craft guilds, we are creating opportunities for residents and visitors to discover, appreciate, and support the people who make our community so creative."

This year, City staff invited local arts groups and craft guilds to apply for a temporary two-month exhibit. The 2026 theme is "25 Years in the Making" to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the City of Kawartha Lakes.

Each exhibit shares a strong connection to our community and highlights the creativity, innovation, and originality of local artists. Visitors can enjoy a variety of artwork while learning more about the people and stories that make Kawartha Lakes special.

Historic craft to modern art

The current Art in the Halls exhibit features the Lindsay and District Rug Hookers. Their display includes beautiful modern rugs made using the traditional craft of rug hooking.

Rug hooking became popular during the 1800s in Atlantic Canada and New England. People would tear old clothing into strips and hook the fabric through burlap sacks to create warm and durable rugs for their homes during cold winters.

Today, the Lindsay and District Rug Hookers continue this tradition while creating colourful and creative works of art. The group meets every week to work on projects, share ideas, learn from one another, and enjoy spending time together.

The exhibit is open to the public during regular City Hall hours and will be on display until September 1.

Art in the Halls exhibits rotate throughout the year, giving more local arts groups and craft guilds the opportunity to showcase their work. Kawartha Lakes is proud to support local artists by providing an accessible, public space where residents and visitors can enjoy and purchase unique, locally made artwork.

Upcoming exhibits

Kawartha Art Network (KAN) will display a variety of mediums from local artists during September and October.

Kawartha Weavers and Spinners Guild will display textile fibre arts during November and December.

Previous exhibits

• Artwork from the Municipal Art Collection, displayed during January and February
• Photography from Kawartha Camera Club, displayed during March and April
• Paintings from Bobcaygeon Brushstrokes, displayed during May and June 

Visit the Arts Culture and Heritage web page to learn more.