New Path, the MacLaren Art Centre, and the Barrie Public Library Partner on commUNITY Art Project and Exhibition for Children’s Mental Health Week

Barrie, ON – New Path Youth and Family Services (New Path) and the MacLaren Art Centre (MacLaren) are once again partnering for the commUNITY art project, a series of free, hands-on workshops designed to bring families and youth together through creative expression. This year, two family workshops will also be offered through the Barrie Public Library (BPL).

The artwork completed during these workshops will be showcased in an exhibition, with a free opening reception on May 2 from 1 – 3 pm, in celebration of Children’s Mental Health Week (May 4-10). This exhibition highlights the meaningful role art can play in fostering connection and wellbeing, and complements Portfolio, the MacLaren’s annual juried exhibition featuring artwork by regional, graduating Grade 12 students.

“New Path is committed to working closely with our community partners to promote mental wellness and ensure that families and youth know that free and accredited mental health supports are available to them,” says Jim Harris, CEO of New Path. “The commUNITY art project is a meaningful way for families and young people to connect, express themselves and support mental wellness. We welcome all who can attend to be part of this inspiring, creative and uplifting initiative.”

Registration is now open for families and youth. Spots are limited, register today!

commUNITY Family/Youth Workshop Ages 6+
April 11, 2026 10 am – 12 pm
Barrie Public Library, Painswick Branch
Register: commUNITY Family Art Workshop – Barrie Public Library

commUNITY Youth Workshop Ages 13-18
April 14, 2026 4 pm – 6 pm
MacLaren Art Centre
Register: commUNITY: Youth Workshop – MacLaren Art Centre

commUNITY Family/Youth Workshop Ages 6+
April 18, 2026 10 am – 12 pm
Barrie Public Library, Downtown Branch
Register: commUNITY Family Art Workshop – Barrie Public Library

commUNITY Family Workshop Ages 5+
April 19, 2026 1 pm – 3 pm
MacLaren Art Centre
Register: commUNITY: Special Family Sunday Workshops – MacLaren Art Centre

commUNITY Family Workshop Ages 5+
April 26, 2026 1 pm – 3 pm
MacLaren Art Centre
Register: commUNITY: Special Family Sunday Workshops – MacLaren Art Centre

“The MacLaren is excited to collaborate with New Path to host this series of free workshops for all ages, where participants can create unique artwork that expresses personal narratives of growth, hope and transformation,” says Christina Mancuso, Education Officer at MacLaren Art Centre.

The commUNITY opening reception will take place on May 2^nd, from 1:00 -3:00 pm to coincide with Portfolio, with artwork being displayed at the MacLaren’s PIE Education Centre from May 2 – June 1, 2026 and then at the Barrie Rotunda beginning in July.

“This is a great opportunity for families to come to the library, learn some new techniques, and explore their creative side for a good cause,” says Luke McKee, Manager of Community Engagement at Barrie Public Library. “Artistic expression has been proven to support positive mental well-being for youth, and we’re happy to partner with New Path and the MacLaren to host this program.”

A heartfelt thank you to Heljar and Karen Hansen from Pratt Homes for their generous support, making this initiative possible.

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About New Path Youth & Family Services of Simcoe County

New Path Youth & Family Services of Simcoe County (New Path) is an accredited children’s mental health agency providing a range of compassionate, innovative, and accessible services for children, youth, and their families throughout Simcoe County. We are a registered not-for-profit charitable organization with office locations across Simcoe County, including Alliston, Barrie, Bradford, Cookstown, Collingwood, and Orillia.

New Path is also the Lead Agency for children’s mental health in Simcoe County with the goal of enhancing the experience and outcomes of children, youth, and their families, seeking assistance with mental health and wellness.

Free mental health services for children, youth and their families are available in-person, by-phone or online. Appointments can be booked on the New Path website: www.newpath.ca/book-now  or by calling 705-725-7656.

To learn more about New Path, to donate, or get involved please visit www.newpath.ca, follow us on social media Facebook: New Path Youth & Family Services X: @NewPathYFS Instagram: @NewPathYFS or sign up for our Newsletter

About the MacLaren Art Centre

The MacLaren Art Centre is the regional public art gallery serving the residents of Barrie, the County of Simcoe, and the surrounding area. The Gallery presents a year-round program of innovative exhibitions, education activities and special events.

We acknowledge the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg people, which include the Odawa, Ojibwe, and Pottawatomi Nations collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy. The local bands consist of the Chippewa Tri-Council, who are made up of Beausoleil First Nation, Georgina Island First Nation, and Rama First Nation. We also acknowledge the Wendat Nation (Huron) who occupied these lands prior to the middle of the 17th century. We are dedicated to honour Indigenous history and culture and recognize the enduring presence of Indigenous peoples on this land. We are committed to moving forward in the spirit of reconciliation and respect with all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit People.

MacLaren Art Centre Location

37 Mulcaster Street
Barrie, Ontario L4M 3M2
705-721-9696
www.maclarenart.com

Public Hours:
Monday closed
Tuesday to Wednesday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm 

Hours are subject to change – please visit maclarenart.com for the most up-to-date information.

Admission 

Admission is FREE. Donations are welcome. Wheelchair accessible.

Media Contacts        

Dominika Zapolnik                                          Christina Mancuso

Manager of Communications                         Education Officer, School & Community Programs

New Path Youth and Family Services           MacLaren Art Centre

(705) 627-3067                                                  (705) 720-1044 ext. 234

dzapolnik@newpath.ca                                    christina@maclarenart.com

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The artwork featured in this book are from Alicia – Resilient Roots, Bottomby, Bryan, Caleb, Dale, Ken, Mara, Mark, Palkia, Primo, Reid, Sarah, Sophie, and five anonymous artists. Regional artists were also commissioned to create unique colouring pages. They are Heather Riley, Michael Ciesielski, Omar Chris Canales-Cisneros, Paige Burt, and Linda Koenemund.

The Colouring Book will officially launch at the World AIDS Day 2025: 30 Years of the Gilbert Centre event, taking place at the Southshore Centre on Sunday, November 30, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Encouraging any media or community to register for the event and obtain a copy of the colouring book!

Registration Link: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/the-gilbert-centre/events/world-aids-day-2025-30-years-of-the-gilbert-centre/

About The Gilbert Centre

The Gilbert Centre is a community-based, not-for-profit, charitable organization that has been providing programs and services as the AIDS Committee of Simcoe County since 1995. In 2015, in part to recognize the reality of people with HIV not developing AIDS and living healthy lives with HIV, the organization changed its name from the AIDS Committee of Simcoe County to the Gilbert Centre for Social and Support Services. The Gilbert Centre, named after our founder Ed Gilbert, not only reflects the changes in understanding and managing HIV but also embraces the expansion of our programming to serve lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender individuals and families in the Simcoe Muskoka area.

About the MacLaren Art Centre

The MacLaren Art Centre is the regional public art gallery serving the residents of Barrie, the County of Simcoe, and the surrounding area. The Gallery presents a year-round program of innovative exhibitions, education activities and special events.

We acknowledge the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg people, which include the Odawa, Ojibwe, and Pottawatomi Nations collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy. The local bands consist of the Chippewa Tri-Council, who are made up of Beausoleil First Nation, Georgina Island First Nation, and Rama First Nation. We also acknowledge the Wendat Nation (Huron) who occupied these lands prior to the middle of the 17th century. We are dedicated to honouring Indigenous history and culture and recognize the enduring presence of Indigenous peoples on this land. We are committed to moving forward in the spirit of reconciliation and respect with all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit People.

The Gilbert Centre                   

525-80 Bradford Street
Barrie, ON L4N 6S7
705-722-6778
www.gilbertcentre.ca

MacLaren Art Centre

37 Mulcaster St.
Barrie, ON L4M 3M2
705-721-9696
www.maclarenart.com

Main Contacts

Dale Boyle
Executive Director
The Gilbert Centre
(705) 722.6778 ext. 105
DaleB@GilbertCentre.ca

Christina Mancuso
Education Officer
MacLaren Art Centre
(705) 721-9696 x 234
christina@maclarenart.com

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Barrie, ON) The MacLaren Art Centre is excited to present the 33rd Annual OFF THE HOOK Silent Art Auction, happening on Friday, November 14, at 37 Mulcaster Street in downtown Barrie.

This highly anticipated fundraising event gathers collectors, art lovers, and community supporters for a vibrant evening of bidding on a curated selection of contemporary artworks. With 70+ works generously donated by celebrated artists, there’s something for every taste and budget. Best of all, your bids support the MacLaren’s artistic programs and the contributing artists.

Tickets are $75, and can be purchased on the MacLaren’s webpage, in-person or over the phone. Tickets are expected to sell out – secure yours today before it’s too late.

Guests will enjoy a lively atmosphere, mingle with artists and fellow art enthusiasts, and indulge in delicious hors d’oeuvres by Cravings Fine Food and Kajo Food Works. Desserts generously donated by Sweet and Sassie Bake Shop, Cakes by Design, and Craig’s Cookies Barrie.

Carol-Ann Ryan, the auction’s Chair for 2025 shares, “Having participated in OFF THE HOOK since first moving to Barrie, it is my great privilege to serve as auction Chair in 2025. Living with art brings joy to our lives while creating a calm and contemplative environment. Opportunities to purchase original contemporary art are limited in our community. I highly recommend taking advantage of this opportunity to make your first acquisition or expand an existing collection in support of a good cause. The artwork available has been carefully selected from generous donations by working artists who all believe in the value of the MacLaren and its role in Simcoe County. Please join us for the sake of art in Barrie!”

Says Artistic Director of the MacLaren, Tyler Durbano; “OFF THE HOOK has been a much-anticipated event for thirty-three wonderful years, and I’ve loved it since my first day as a volunteer on the Auction Committee in 2013. This fundraiser enables the MacLaren to offer incredible exhibitions, hands-on art programs for all ages and abilities, and community outreach initiatives, much of which is free to the public. The Auction is all excitement without pretense. It’s the kind of event where people laugh, connect, and discover artwork they can’t live without.”

Featured Artists Include:
Teresa Cullen, Gary Evans, Ted Fullerton, John Hartman, Katherine Harvey, Marlene Hilton-Moore, Neda Mazhab Jafari, Collette Laberté, Kristiina Lahde, Derek Liddington, Landon Mackenzie, John McEwen, Caroline Monet, Maureen O’Connor, Jill Price, Rod Prouse, Brian Rideout, Jon Sasaki, Frances Thomas, and many more.

Visit the Public Preview November 8 to November 14, 2025 or check out the online catalogue anytime at: www.maclarenart.com/art-auction. New in 2025 ticket holders have an opportunity to Buy it Now, so you can secure your preferred artwork at full value in advance of the auction from 9 AM on November 10th to 4 PM on November 14^th.  Contact Development Officer, Andrea Araujo to inquire: andrea@maclarenart.com, 705-720-1044 ext. 236.

Sponsors:

Thank you to our Premium Sponsor Barriston Law for their generous support.

Thank you to the following ad sponsors: McBride Robillard Financial Solutions, Kempenfelt Bay School, Jeff’s Junk, Lawler Team, National Bank of Canada, PACART, Plumbtech Plumbing Inc, Wall-Armstrong & Green.

Thank you to our caterers, Cravings Fine Food and Kajo Food Works, for their generous contributions. Thanks to local businesses for donating sweet treats: Cakes by Design, Craig’s Cookies Barrie, and Sweet and Sassie Bake Shop.

Thank you to our photographer Jennifer Klementti for capturing the event.

Special thanks to our Media Sponsor: Rock95, KoolFM and Barrie 360.

For more information about the MacLaren Art Centre’s OFF THE HOOK Silent Art Auction, visit www.maclarenart.com/art-auction

Media Contact:
Andrea Araujo
Development Officer
MacLaren Art Centre
andrea@maclarenart.com
705-720-1044 ext. 236

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Barrie, ON – September 19, 2025 – The MacLaren Art Centre is thrilled to announce a generous donation from the Albarrie Foundation, reinforcing the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting artists and community development in the region. This gift will directly enhance the Gallery’s programs, providing children, youth, and emerging artists with opportunities to explore their creative potential. 

Founded in 1983 and based in Barrie, Albarrie is a global leader in developing and manufacturing advanced technical felts that help protect our air, land, and water. The company’s innovative products, including industrial air filtration fabrics, environmentally friendly material handling solutions, and oil-reactive spill containment technologies, are designed to replace harmful alternatives and reduce environmental impacts across industries. Albarrie’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and mentorship continues to shape both industrial progress and creative growth in the community. 

In 2015, Albarrie’s current CEO, Margaret Driscoll, invited a young Studio Arts student to create an installation for the company’s main floor boardroom, highlighting the industrial textiles Albarrie produces. Before the commission, Vice President Kevin Horner guided the student through the facility, explaining materials and production processes. That early commission, which helped shape the career of Andrea Araujo – now Development Officer at the MacLaren – remains a powerful testament to how Albarrie’s support continues to share the future paths of emerging artists. 

“When I was a student, Albarrie invested in my abilities and gave me opportunities to grow,” says Andrea Araujo. “This donation is not only generous, but it gives young people at the MacLaren the chance to explore their creativity and potential. Albarrie’s commitment to nurturing talent is longstanding and inspirational for others in the community.” 

Ten years later, Albarrie continues its steadfast support for creative people in the region, culminating in this final gift to the MacLaren Art Centre. 

 “Supporting our community has always been at the heart of our company’s values,” said Margaret Driscoll. “Our original founders believed that a long-term vision is key to our success.  Our current teams and leadership groups have carried on with the same mantra, with a commitment to giving back locally – we are proud to continue this legacy. It is especially meaningful that Andrea Araujo assisted Albarrie with a display that explains to visitors what Albarrie does, what it manufactures.  She is now a Development Officer at the MacLaren Art Centre, and it was only natural that Albarrie give back and support the MacLaren’s efforts, bringing this partnership full circle.”  

The Albarrie Foundation’s gift will support the MacLaren Art Centre’s mission to deliver contemporary visual art and educational programs to connect diverse communities and partners. The Gallery extends heartfelt thanks to Margaret, Kevin, and the Albarrie Foundation for their unwavering support of artists and arts education in the region.  

“This generous donation is a testament to mentorship, vision, and the transformative power of the arts,” says Ashleigh Oke, Operations Director at the MacLaren Art Centre. “What began as a spark of creativity for one student now helps nurture the next generation of artists and cultural leaders.” 

This contribution from the Albarrie Foundation marks the closing chapter of a legacy of generosity, innovation, and belief in the power of the arts to inspire and uplift the community. 

For more information about how to donate to the MacLaren Art Centre, visit https://maclarenart.com/donate.

Media Contact:
Andrea Araujo
Development Officer
MacLaren Art Centre
andrea@maclarenart.com
705-720-1044 ext. 236 

About Albarrie:
Albarrie is a Barrie-based manufacturer of advanced nonwoven textiles used in environmental and industrial applications. A family-owned business, Albarrie is committed to sustainability, innovation, and community engagement, where they develop cutting-edge materials while supporting local initiatives through the Albarrie Foundation. 

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Among the goals set out in our new Strategic Plan, one stands out as central to who we are: caring for and growing the MacLaren’s collection. Our responsibility is to ensure the art entrusted to us is preserved with the highest professional standards. To advance this responsibility, we are preparing the Gallery for Category A designation from the Government of Canada. This is a critical milestone that will recognize the MacLaren for our excellence in preserving and presenting cultural property.

Reaching this milestone would mark a turning point for the MacLaren. Achieving Category A designation is a powerful tool for growing our collection and attracting major works of art, including works of national significance. It would also deepen our relationships with donors, encourage loans from both private and institutional partners, and raise the Gallery’s profile on a national level.

With this significant goal in mind, we are making some key changes to the MacLaren’s operations and physical spaces. A recent facility audit conducted by Workshop Architecture Inc. outlined changes the building must undergo to meet the highest professional standards for collection care.

One notable change is the upcoming relocation of the Lazy Tulip Café. After three wonderful years, the Lazy Tulip, a warm presence at the Gallery, will be relocating to a new space at the end of its lease term. We are deeply grateful to the Lazy Tulip team for the community and hospitality they have brought to the MacLaren and wish them every success as they transition to their new home. We hope our community will join us in celebrating their next chapter.

For now, the future of the cafe space remains open as we explore possibilities that align with our strategic goals. We recognize the importance of a welcoming space for our visitors and are exploring options that will allow us to meet both our institutional standards and our commitment to the community. We look forward to keeping you informed every step of the way.

These changes are part of a larger story of renewal. We invite you to explore the Strategic Plan in more detail to see how the MacLaren is preparing for the exciting years ahead. It’s an exciting time of growth at the Gallery, and we hope you can join us on this journey. For more information on our new Strategic Directions and goals, click here.

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The 2025 Black Tie MAC Gala had a number of exciting highlights for attendees:

• Special Guest Performance: Last year, the Gala welcomed legendary Canadian band The Trews as a surprised special guest. This year, the MAC Gala was very excited to have the Juno Award Winner and Platinum Selling Recording Artist, Rêve.
  Watercolour Portraits: Two talented watercolour artists captured guests’ likeness by watercolour. Guests were invited to take home these special one-of-a-kind pieces to remember their experience. Artists Anjana Arunasalam, Shauna Umney-Gray, and their assistant Varubini Pram.
• Oyster Bar: During cocktail hour, guests indulged in many hors d’oeuvres, including a live shucked Oyster Bar.
• Gourmet Dining Experience: Attendees indulged in a delicious and specially curated three-course sit-down dinner by Eclectic Café and Catering.Head Chef for the MAC Gala is Melanie Robinson who was named “Chopped Champion” (2015) of the Food Network’s Chopped Canada Television Show.
• Door Prize by Michael Smiley Fine Jewellery: Guests bought “pearls” to take their chances on winning a $3,000 custom piece of jewellery from Michael Smiley Fine Jewellery.
• Live Auction: The Gala’s live auction featured an array of enticing packages with exclusive experiences such as a Maple Leafs Executive Suite Box next season, a helicopter tour, golf excursions, spa treatments plus many other amazing experiences.
• Musical Delights: A live DJ sets the perfect tone for the evening, keeping the energy high and the dance floor alive with an eclectic mix of beats.

Acknowledging the invaluable support of sponsors, MAC extends its heartfelt gratitude to:

Presenting Sponsor: Pratt Homes
Platinum Sponsor: Barriston Law
Silver Sponsors: BMO Private Wealth, Galbraith Family Law, Leading Edge Earthworks, Lorriman Sturgeon Wealth Management Group, Seven Elements Wealth Planning, Zentec.
Bronze Sponsors: Ain Whitehead LLP, Cubic Feet Designs, Osborne Goddard Team
Event Partners:

• Appetizer: Georgian College
• Auctioneer: All Star Auctions Inc.
• Caterer: Eclectic Café & Catering
• Flowers: Art in Bloem
• Jewellery: Michael Smiley Fine Jewellery
• Rental: HoneyPot Rentals
• Visual Media: Juicebox Studios
• Audio and Visual: Michael Enterprise Audio and Visual
• 360 Photo Booth: RothMedia

The live auction was a riveting scene, where guests battled it out to the last bid. The live auction raised $40,000 in support of the MacLaren’s children’s programs and community outreach initiatives.

Items in the Live Auction Packages were generously donated by the following businesses and individuals:
147, Apple Annies Cafe, Barrie Baycats, B’Spoke Kitchen + Market, Braestone Club / The Ktchn, Chasing New York Inc, The City of Barrie, Cocina Mexicana, Donaleigh’s Irish Pub, Dr. Stacie Weber, Glow Day Spa, Gravity Salon Professionals, Jimmy Chews, Josh Valler, Kempenfelt Community Players, Kenzington Burger Bar, Lone Wolf Cafe, Lotus Lane, Manifest Barber, Mariposa Arts Theatre, Mariposa Folk Festival, Michael and Marion’s, Moore Packaging, Napoleon Home Comfort, Orillia Museum of Art and History, Pickleplex Social Club, Rustica Pizza Vino, Sandra Roberts / PIE Media Group, Shimmering Smiles, The Paint Bar, The Red Tulip, The Rind and Truckle, True North Airways, Zenetec. Special thanks to Homestead Artisan Bakery for donating table bread.

2025 Black Tie Committee: Michael Kuluva (Chair), Matt Follwell, Nicole Murphy, Gary Pearson and Mira Ray.

Event volunteers: Janice DeFazio, Christina Miskiv and Jurgen Henze.

The MAC Gala 2025 was not just a celebration of art but a testament to the unwavering support of the community and the dedication of MAC’s sponsors and partners. Through events like these, the MacLaren Art Centre continues to enrich lives and foster a thriving artistic ecosystem.

For more information about MAC Gala visit https://www.macgala.ca

Contact
Andrea Araujo
Development Officer
705-720-1044 ext. 236
andrea@maclarenart.com

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“At New Path, we are always eager to collaborate with our community to support mental wellness and ensure that families and youth are aware of the free and accredited mental health services available to them,” says Jim Harris, CEO of New Path. “The commUNITY art project provides a wonderful opportunity for families and youth to engage in an activity that fosters mental wellness, and we encourage everyone who can attend to join us in this meaningful experience.”

Art workshop registration is now open for families and youth on the MacLaren website.
Family Workshops: Sunday, April 13 or Sunday, April 20 from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Register here: www.maclarenart.com/product/community-special-family-sunday-workshops/
Youth Workshop: Tuesday, April 15 from 4:00 – 6:00 pm Register here: www.maclarenart.com/product/community-special-youth-workshop/

The commUNITY art opening reception will take place on May 3rd, from 1:00 -3:00 pm with the artwork being displayed at the MacLaren’s PIE Education Centre from May 3 – June 1, 2025.

“The MacLaren is excited to collaborate with New Path to host this series of free workshops for all ages—where participants can create unique artwork that expresses personal narratives of growth, hope and transformation,” says Christina Mancuso, Education Officer at MacLaren Art Centre.

About New Path Youth & Family Services of Simcoe County

New Path Youth & Family Services of Simcoe County (New Path) is an accredited children’s mental health agency providing a range of compassionate, innovative, and accessible services for children, youth, and their families throughout Simcoe County. We are a registered not-for-profit charitable organization with office locations across Simcoe County, including Alliston, Barrie, Bradford, Cookstown, Collingwood, and Orillia.

New Path is also the Lead Agency for children’s mental health in Simcoe County with the goal of enhancing the experience and outcomes of children, youth, and their families, seeking assistance with mental health and wellness.

New Path offers free mental health services for children, youth and their families in-person, by-phone or online. Appointments can be booked on the New Path website: www.newpath.ca/book-now or by calling 705-725-7656.

To learn more about New Path, to donate, or get involved please visit www.newpath.ca, follow us on social media Facebook: New Path Youth & Family Services X: @NewPathYFS Instagram: @NewPathYFS or sign up for our Newsletter

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The newly named PIE Education Centre is a space dedicated to hosting creative programs and opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

“PIE Wood Fired Pizza Joint and the MacLaren Art Centre share a belief in the power of creativity to uplift and empower. By providing essential support to children in need, PIE lays the foundation for confidence and learning—just as our art programs offer exploration, expression, and connection,” said Interim Artistic Director, Tyler Durbano. “We are incredibly grateful for their commitment to the MacLaren and the community. With the support of PIE Wood Fired Pizza Joint, we can continue to offer programs for everyone at a reduced cost, ensuring that creativity remains an accessible tool for personal growth, inclusion, and community.”

As a non-profit entity, PIE Education is a “hand-up” initiative dedicated to providing essential educational supplies to underprivileged and at-risk children. Their goal is to boost children’s confidence as they return to school, helping them focus on their studies and foster positive engagement with their peers. With a shared vision for empowering the community through education, PIE Wood Fired Pizza Joint’s support will help sustain and expand the MacLaren Art Centre’s vital arts programs.

“Since PIE Education’s inception in 2010, the program has provided over 27,000 backpacks to children in need. Along with partners such as the John Tavares Foundation, Progress for Mental Health and the City of Sudbury, PIE Education continues to grow province wide. We are proud to expand our partnership with the MacLaren Art Centre through the PIE Education Centre” says Craig Russell of PIE Wood Fired Pizza Joint.

The MacLaren Art Centre is grateful for PIE Wood Fired Pizza Joint’s continued partnership and looks forward to the exciting opportunities this sponsorship will bring for both organizations and the community they serve.

About the MacLaren Art Centre


The MacLaren Art Centre is a contemporary art gallery in Barrie, Ontario with a focus on community engagement and education. The charity offers a wide range of dynamic exhibitions, educational programs, and outreach initiatives which aim to engage the community through the visual arts. The Centre provides a platform for artists, curators, and the public to come together in creative dialogue and cultural exchange.

About PIE Wood Fired Pizza Joint


PIE Wood Fired Pizza Joint is locally owned, and operates restaurants in Barrie and Muskoka, Ontario, known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas and commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Beyond their culinary excellence, PIE is a strong advocate for community involvement and support, making significant contributions to local arts, education, and charitable initiatives.

For more information about the MacLaren Art Centre and its programs, please visit www.maclarenart.com. For more details about PIE Wood Fired Pizza Joint and PIE Education, visit www.piewoodpizza.com.

The post MacLaren Art Centre Announces Partnership with PIE Wood Fired Pizza Joint for Room Sponsorship of the PIE Education Centre appeared first on MacLaren Art Centre.

On Friday, November 22, we welcomed 250 people to attend their 32nd annual OFF THE HOOK Silent Art Auction, which raised funds to support the Gallery’s programs and regional artists. The event featured over 120 works of art generously donated by 100 artists and was made possible by the support of local businesses who acted as sponsors, caterers, advertisers, and contributors of Great Finds. Thank you to all who contributed and attended—the event’s success reflects the entire community’s involvement!

Acknowledging Our Artists

Heartfelt thanks to the contributing artists, without whom this event would not be possible.

Peter Adams, John David Anderson, Teodorico Asuncion, Deborah Atkinson, Marylynne Atkinson, Angela Aujla, Amy Bagshaw, Matthew Bahen, Brian Barrer, Susan Belcher, Andre Beneteau, Shirra Benson, Tim Bilton, Marilyn Black, Mariya Blyznyuk, Pauline Bradshaw, Marianne Braid, Kim Brett, Brunosmoky, Jane Burns, Chris Omar Canales-Cisneros, Nadine Carr, Norman Catchpole, EJ Cornish, Allan M. Craig, Teresa Cullen, Tanya Cunnington, Dodo Bird, Bonnie Dorgelo, Tyler Durbano, Gary Evans, Michael Farnan, Matthew Ferguson, Nahum Flores, Ted Fullerton, Elena Gaevskaya, Janet Goldblatt Holmes, Ingi Gould, John Gould, Katie Green, Sadko Hadzihasanovic, John Hartman, Joseph Hartman, Sarah Hawley, Pauline Henson, Roy Hickling, Marlene Hilton Moore, Ian James Hopkins, Silvija Hord, Leonora Husveti-Frenette, Ruth Irvine, Jelica Jovin, Gita Karklins, Ila Anne Kellerman, Jennifer Klementti, Linda Laforge, Norma Lee, John Lennard, Shakaya Leone, Derek Liddington, Joanne Lomas, Valerie Losell, Jeanette Luchese, Christina Luck, Max Lupo, Sharon MacKinnon, Claudia Mandler McKnight, Robert Marchessault, Sarah Martin, Ilyana Martinez, Neda Mazahb-Jafari, Charles Meanwell, Peter Miehm, Elaine Morton, Chris Nelson, Carrie Paquette, Margaret Ann Paradis, Meaghan Paterson, Ginette Pelletier, Jill Price, Ester Pugliese, Janet Read, Scott Sawtell, Damon Shareski, Bewabon Shilling, Ron Shuebrook, Ross Skoggard, Nurielle Stern, Frances Thomas, Petra Victoria Welch, Janet Wallace, Janine Wheeler, Karen Wild, Charlotte Williams, Kate Wilson, Wendy Wingfelder, Gillian Winter, Chloe Zyp.

Sponsors and Supporters

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our premium event sponsor Barriston Law for their unwavering support of the Gallery. Thank you to our advertising sponsors FK GROUP, Homestead Artisan Bakery Inc., McBride Robillard Financial Solution Inc., May Court Club of Barrie, National Bank of Canada, PACART Inc., Plumbtech Plumbing Inc, Lawler Team, and Wall-Armstrong & Green

Special thanks to Lydia Olah, Habitat for Humanity Huronia, and Georgian Copy and Printers Inc. for their ongoing support.

We are also grateful to our caterers B’Spoke Kitchen + Market, Lazy Tulip Cafe and Salty Blonde Bagel Bar, who provided delicious offerings during the event. A heartfelt thank you to Taylor Grigg Co. for their generous photography services, and to Susan and Jason Holman for donating sweet treats from Tim Hortons.

Acknowledging Our Volunteers and Contributors

We would like to express our sincere thanks to John Arruda for emceeing the evening and helping make the event so memorable.

Our Great Finds contributors were also essential to the evening’s success. Thank you to:

Art in Bloem, Artage Portraits, Barrie Concert Association, Barrie Fire and Emergency Services, Bradford Greenhouse Garden Gallery, Bravado! Show Choir, Deanne Fitzpatrick, Downtown Barrie BIA, Gail Sweeney, Holland Marsh Winery, Horseshoe Valley Ski Resort, Ingi Gould, Kempenfelt Community Players, LA Fitness on Cundles St, Medieval Times, NLI Solutions, Nook Yoga, Rinaldi’s Salon & Spa, Rock 95, Shanty Bay Golf Club, Shaw Festival, Shaws Maple Syrup, Stratford Festival, Theatre By the Bay, Touchstone Resort, Wall Armstrong and Green, and YMCA Simcoe Muskoka.

We would also like to acknowledge the MacLaren Art Centre’s Board of Directors for donating the wine basket, and Metzger Studio for donating 14K gold earrings to the raffle.

Special Thanks to the Art Auction Committee and Volunteers

A special thank you to the Art Auction Committee for their months of planning and support. Their invaluable insight and experience were essential to the success of the event: Ruth Anderson, Nadine Carr, Sheila Delaney, Patti Gwin, and Barb Robillard. Thank you to the Art Auction Committee for also donating to the Candy Bar.

Lastly, we are incredibly grateful to the many volunteers who helped ensure the evening ran smoothly, including the students from Georgian College’s Museum and Gallery Studies program. Thank you to volunteers: Michela Barranca, Vivian Barrow, Allan Craig, Flo Delkus, Sarah Hawley, Petra Hewson, Silvija Hord, Katharine Keeping, Willow Kozanczyn, Diane Leuty, Hannah McLaughlin, Lee McLaughlin, Lois Miehm, Peter Miehm, Isabella Mohammed, Sabrina Schoneveld, Keegan Smith, Clinton Todd, Karen Ulan, Jude Gibson Vick, Bernadette Wells, and Wendy Wingfelder.

Thank you again to all who made the OFF THE HOOK Silent Art Auction a tremendous success. We look forward to seeing you at next year’s event!

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