Written By Olena Riznyk
PARKHILL – The Parkhill Artisan Collective is breathing new life into a century-old landmark. Located in the historic Carnegie Building, once a public library funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, the gallery and cultural hub has become a place for creativity, learning, and community connection.
“Andrew Carnegie donated much of his fortune to open free libraries around the world. There are about 150 of them in Canada, and this is one of the few still standing in Ontario,” explained Brittney White, Summer Student Manager at the Collective. When the library closed more than a decade ago, local artists came together to preserve the building as an arts and culture centre.
Today, the Collective features the work of 14 artists from Parkhill, Ailsa Craig, London, and nearby towns. “We have painting, woodwork, handmade guitars and violins, photography – everything,” said Brittney. “Even though there are only 14 artists, some work across several mediums, so the variety is incredible.”
Beyond exhibits, the Collective offers workshops and classes. This past summer, children’s art camps explored themes from theatre to textiles to woodworking. “We try to encourage young and emerging artists to show their work and try new things,” Brittney said. Adult workshops have included gnome-making and pour painting, while the building also hosts concerts and community events.
The Collective recently marked its 110th anniversary with a two-day celebration featuring demonstrations by local artists. “It was fun,” Brittney recalled. “We want to be part of the community, so we partner with events like the Parkhill Fair and collaborate with the library.”
Memberships are available for $25 annually, providing discounts on workshops and events. Artists who wish to exhibit apply through a jury process, ensuring variety and accessible pricing. Exhibiting artists also volunteer at the gallery, giving visitors the chance to meet creators face-to-face and hear the stories behind their work.
Looking forward, the group is raising funds to improve accessibility. “We’re trying to get a lift, because right now there are a lot of stairs. We want more people to be able to enjoy the space,” Brittney explained.
For Brittney, who moved to Parkhill just a year ago, working at the Collective has been a personal journey too. “I’ve met so many artists and learned their stories,” she said. “It showed me that art doesn’t need a big museum – it can live in a small place like this, where people feel at home.”
