Kawartha Art Gallery launches “Adopt A Piece” program
In early 1976, the Lindsay Art Guild and the Kawartha Arts and Crafts Association merged to form Studio 8 at 8 Victoria Avenue North, Lindsay. The Guild focused on art appreciation and fundraising to acquire important artworks for public display, while the association consisted of artists and artisans seeking studio space, workshops, and a cultural gathering place.
Studio 8 evolved into The Lindsay Gallery Inc., officially opening on April 24, 1976. Nellie King, a former LVCI teacher, generously donated seven paintings — the foundation of the Kawartha Art Gallery Permanent Collection.
From its inception, one of the gallery’s primary goals has been to build a strong and diverse permanent collection. Today, it includes over 100 artworks by Canadian artists of regional and national acclaim, including six works by a member of the Group of Seven.
The Permanent Collection belongs to the citizens of Kawartha Lakes, with Kawartha Art Gallery as its dedicated steward, ensuring its preservation, accessibility, and continued celebration.
To safeguard this community-owned collection, Kawartha Art Gallery has launched a Conservation and Restoration Program, ensuring the safety, stability, and longevity of the artworks for present and future generations. The Gallery’s upcoming move to 19 Cambridge Street South in Lindsay will provide a dedicated environmentally controlled storage space for the Permanent Collection, a significant step in protecting these cultural assets.
The Adopt A Piece program offers individuals the opportunity to directly support the restoration and conservation of artworks within Kawartha Art Gallery’s Permanent Collection. This programs aims to help preserve the cultural and historical significance of these works. Funds raised support essential conservation efforts such as repairing minor damages and cleaning or re-stretching canvases. As the program grows, it will expand to include more comprehensive restoration projects, including remounting canvases and treating mold on paper.
Adopting a piece is a meaningful way to support your community’s cultural legacy and makes a unique gift for an art lover, friend, or family member.
To adopt an artwork or to learn more about the program, please contact Susan Taylor at or 705-324-1780.
