Elora Fergus Arts Council Programs and Activities

What we do

The Elora Fergus Arts Council actively encourages engagement in both amateur and professional art activities within the community. These activities include signature programs spearheaded by EFAC as well as initiatives led by our Organization Members.
 

Signature Programs
 

  • Insights Juried Fine Arts Exhibition

Hosted each spring in partnership with the Wellington County Museum, Insights is one of Southwestern Ontario's premier juried exhibitions. It showcases the high levels of accomplishment and innovative approaches to art expression in the work of local and regional artists. The exhibition attracts hundreds of submissions annually and is actively supported within the community through sponsorships, donations, and attendance.

Visit Insights Art for more information.
 

  • Plein Air Festival

Join us every spring for a celebration of outdoor painting in Fergus and Elora. Local and visiting artists capture our towns' beauty “en plein air” over the May long weekend. This four-day event features a Quick Paint, art demonstrations, and concludes with a juried show and sale at the Elora Centre for the Arts. Community support through sponsorships, donations, and purchases helps make this event a success.

For more details, visit Elora Plein Air Festival
 

  • Art in Public Places

Rotating exhibits showcase local artists in the Council Chambers, Sportsplex boardrooms, the window of Greg Oakes Law Office in Elora and the lobby of Groves Memorial Hospital. These exhibits make art accessible to all members of the community, enriching public spaces and bringing art into our everyday lives.

For current exhibits, visit Art in Public Places
 

  • Art Talks

Join us on cozy Sunday afternoons during winter at our local libraries for Art Talks. These sessions offer a glimpse into the lives and practices of local artists through informal discussions. Your suggestions for future presenters and stories are always welcome.

For information, click Art Talks.
 

Organization Members
 

The Arts Council promotes the activities of other local art groups that share our mission of stimulating enjoyment and understanding of the arts and enriching the cultural life of the community.
 

  • Elora Fergus Studio Tour

Explore the creative spaces of local artists and artisans with this self-guided tour across Centre Wellington. Happening annually during the last weekend of September and the first weekend of October, this artist-organized event is open to everyone at no charge.

Find out more at Elora Fergus Studio Tour
 

  • Elora Poetry Centre & Gallery

Nestled in the historic 1832 Beaver House in Elora, the Elora Poetry Centre & Gallery serves as a hub for poetry, art, and music. It houses a unique collection of literary memorabilia and collaborative artworks. Attend poetry readings, art exhibitions, and music events at this international poetry centre.

Explore more at Elora Poetry Centre
 

  • Elora Sculpture Project

Experience outdoor art with the Elora Sculpture Project, showcasing sculptures in 18 locations across Elora and Fergus from May to October each year. Open to hobbyists, students, and professionals, this initiative celebrates diverse artistic expressions. Organized by volunteers and supported by local BIAs and the Township, it's funded by businesses and art enthusiasts.

Learn more at Elora Sculpture Project
 

  • Gallery Concert Series

Enjoy live music, conversation, and coffee on Sunday afternoons at the Wellington County Museum's Exhibit Hall. The Gallery Concerts feature small musical groups in intimate settings, offering classical and contemporary favourites. Performers volunteer their talent, engaging with guests post-performance. It's an affordable, family-friendly way to experience live music.

Details at galleryconcertseries.ca
 

  • Puppets Elora

Since 1995, Puppets Elora, a volunteer-driven puppet troupe, has delighted Centre Wellington's children and adults with original, interactive theatre. Showcasing handcrafted puppets, props, and special effects, the troupe draws on volunteers with expertise in education, theatre, and the arts. Their mission: to foster community through the timeless art of puppetry.

Visit Puppets Elora for more information.