The Haliburton Arts Scene: Where Natural Beauty Inspires Creativity
It’s no surprise that a region as breathtaking as Haliburton also happens to be one of Ontario’s most vibrant creative hubs. With rugged granite outcrops, lush forests, and shimmering lakes as inspiration, Haliburton’s art scene is as rooted in nature as it is in community.
Here, creativity doesn’t just live in galleries — it flows into cottage docks, lakeside studios, forest trails, and community festivals. Whether you’re a weekend visitor or a year-round resident, you’ll find art woven into the very fabric of the Highlands.
The Haliburton School of Art + Design
At the heart of it all is Fleming College’s Haliburton School of Art + Design. This renowned institution draws artists from across Canada and beyond.
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Programs & Diplomas: Visual Arts, Ceramics, Jewellery, Heritage Crafts.
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Workshops: Weekend, weeklong, and seasonal courses in painting, glass, metalwork, fibre arts, and more.
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Community Connection: Students and faculty contribute directly to the cultural fabric of the Highlands.
This creative anchor has helped shape Haliburton into a destination not just for nature lovers, but for art seekers too.
Signature Events
Art on the Dock – Kennisis Lake
One of the most unique traditions in Haliburton, Art on the Dock invites visitors to tour cottage docks and studios around Kennisis Lake. Artists showcase paintings, pottery, glass, fibre art, and more, with guests arriving by boat, car, or on foot. Proceeds support local Artists in the Schools programs.
The Haliburton Studio Tour
Running for more than 30 years, the Studio Tour Haliburton Highlands takes place each October, opening over 30 artists’ studios. Visitors can see works in progress, chat with artists, and purchase one-of-a-kind creations. It’s a fall tradition that draws thousands to the Highlands.
Tour de Forest – Summer Studio Tour
Held annually in August, Tour de Forest offers a mid-summer chance to meet local and guest artists. It’s the perfect pairing with a cottage holiday.
Rails End Gallery Festivals
Rails End Gallery & Arts Centre in Haliburton hosts exhibitions and annual events, including the popular Haliburton Art & Craft Festival in July and the En Plein Air Haliburton painting event each fall.
Must-Visit Galleries, Studios & Arts Spaces
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Name |
Location |
Medium / Focus |
Website |
|---|---|---|---|
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Rails End Gallery & Arts Centre |
23 York St, Haliburton |
Contemporary arts, crafts, festivals |
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Agnes Jamieson Gallery |
Minden |
Local & regional visual art, André Lapine collection |
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Corner Gallery |
Haliburton Village |
Modern landscapes & contemporary works |
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Ethel Curry Gallery |
Haliburton Village |
Canadian paintings, sculpture, mixed media |
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Haliburton Sculpture Forest |
Glebe Park |
Outdoor sculpture trail |
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Blackbird Pottery |
Haliburton |
Ceramics & functional pottery |
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The Hot Shop – Artech Studios |
Haliburton |
Glass blowing workshops |
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Ivy Cottage Fusion Arts |
Haliburton |
Glass, fibre arts |
For a full updated list, the Arts Council ~ Haliburton Highlands Directory is a fantastic resource.
Why the Arts Matter Here
In Haliburton, art and nature are inseparable. The galleries and festivals bring life to the community, and they’re also a powerful draw for visitors discovering the Highlands for the first time. It’s yet another reason people fall in love with the area — and sometimes, why they choose to make it their home.
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