Art lovers, rejoice! A visit to the Headwaters region of Ontario is your ticket to a vibrant, bustling art scene, from traditional mediums like painting and photography to fine crafts such as pottery, jewellery making, and more. Using Millcroft Inn & Spa as your home base, embark on a fascinating journey through the many art galleries and studios in the Headwaters region.
Whether your taste is conventional or eclectic, you’ll find something that appeals to you! You’ll also have the chance to support the local artists that make these extraordinary pieces and enrich the cultural fabric of Canadian art.
Williams Mill Creative Arts Studio
Image courtesy of Williams Mill Creative Arts Studio
Home to six creative studios, Williams Mill Creative Arts showcases beautiful, bespoke art pieces directly from the talented artists who create it. Visit Glen Williams Glass to admire their collection of fine glassware and to observe the glassblowing process. Then drop by the Glen Tavern for lunch, where they serve premium wines and seasonal, contemporary cuisine.
Address: 515 Main St, Georgetown, ON L7G 3S9
Alton Mill Art Centre
Image courtesy of the Alton Mill Art Centre
As an award-winning arts centre in the heart of the charming village of Alton, Alton Mill is a must-visit. With 25 studios featuring fine artists, tattoo artists, and even a blacksmith, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. Visit Gallery Gemma for gorgeous, bespoke jewellery crafted by Anne Marie Warburton. Their fashion market, Rare Threads, is also a worthy stop, carrying a variety of handmade clothing, home accessories, and winter fashions.
Address: 1402 Queen St W, Alton, ON L7K 0C4 (a short walk from Millcroft Inn & Spa)
Maggiolly Art
Image courtesy of Maggiolly Art
Serving as both a store and studio, Maggiolly Art has provided a meeting point for the creative community of Dufferin County for nearly two decades. This creative hub sells artwork by local artist Emilia Perri, along with art supplies like brushes, paints, canvases, and much more. They also offer art classes for all ages, including a fun summer art camp for kids.
Address: 158 Broadway, Orangeville, ON L9W 1K3
Ann Randeraad Pottery
Image courtesy of Ann Randeraad Pottery
Ann Randeraad is a self-taught potter who creates delightfully unique pottery pieces here in her public studio. She prides herself on handcrafting practical pieces that are as functional as they are beautiful. All her pieces hold up to daily use while looking great on your counter! Her wood firing process creates totally unique works, ensuring that you receive a one-of-a-kind piece with every purchase.
Address: 284337 County Rd 10 Amaranth
Paul Morin Gallery
Image courtesy of the Paul Morin Gallery
Located inside the historic, lovingly restored Alton Town Hall, Paul Morin Gallery melds abstract art and nature together in his stunning landscape paintings. Paul has illustrated 14 picture books, with his first book winning the prestigious Governor General’s Award. His gallery showcases his exceptional nature paintings and also serves as a lovely event space for weddings, corporate events, concerts, and film screenings.
Address: 19741 Main St, Alton, ON L7K 0C3
Dragonfly Arts
Image courtesy of Dragonfly Arts
Situated in the heart of Orangeville, Dragonfly Arts displays the artwork of over 200 Canadian artists. In this vibrant studio, you’ll find spectacular paintings, intricate handmade jewellery, and fine crafts, such as pottery, glasswork, and woodwork. They even have fun, eclectic pieces like handmade fridge magnets, leatherwork, artist-made greeting cards, and more! Their selection is always changing, so be sure to pop by periodically to see all their new offerings, including bespoke, one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else.
Address: 189 Broadway, Orangeville, ON L9W 1K2
McMichael Canadian Art Collection
Image courtesy of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection
Located in the quaint village of Kleinberg, McMichael Canadian Art Collection exhibits a wide variety of contemporary and historical artworks. Their permanent collection includes incredible works by Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven, who permanently changed and defined the landscape of Canadian art. They also exhibit works by local Indigenous artists, showcasing unique contributions primarily created by the Anishinaabe/Ojibwa community. They offer an Art Bus that transports you directly from downtown Toronto to the gallery on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Address: 10365 Islington Ave, Kleinburg, ON L0J 1C0
Experience and Support Local Art with Vintage Hotels
Immerse yourself in the fantastic local culture of Ontario on your next visit to the Headwaters region! At the end of a long day of art exhibitions and cultural appreciation, Millcroft Inn & Spa provides a cozy, comfortable hub where you can relax. Well-appointed guestrooms, premium service, and delicious cuisine await you, along with our guest-favourite hot spring pools. Contact us today to plan your next artful escape in Alton!
*Featured image courtesy of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection