Deep Water Gallery is inviting the community to gather for an evening of art, local flavour, and creative connection at its second annual Canvas and Cocktails fundraiser.
The event will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the Bluewater Outdoor Education Centre in South Bruce Peninsula. Proceeds raised will directly support the gallery’s upcoming exhibitions, artist opportunities, and accessible community programming.
Since opening in 2019 as an inclusive, non-profit public arts space in downtown Wiarton, Deep Water Gallery has welcomed thousands of visitors each year and supported creators from Grey and Bruce counties and beyond. Beyond its main exhibition space, the organization hosts popular community initiatives such as Light Up The Night, a free downtown outdoor arts festival, and the Social Palette, a monthly lecture series connecting art lovers with local restaurants.
“Deep Water Gallery has grown through community participation,” said Kelly McDougall, Chairperson at Deep Water Gallery. “Canvas & Cocktails is a chance to enjoy not just a wonderful evening together, but it’s also an invitation to help build a sustainable future for the Gallery and for local arts programming.”
McDougall emphasized that community partnerships extend far beyond funding a single event, directly enabling free, accessible artistic opportunities throughout the region.
Tickets for the event are $75 per person and can be purchased online at deepwatergallery.ca or in person at downtown Wiarton retailers Symon Says, Josie’s, and A Little Something. Because space is limited and last year's inaugural fundraiser completely sold out, organizers encourage attendees to secure their passes early.
Deep Water Gallery is also actively seeking local business sponsors and community partners for the event. Rather than standard package tiers, the gallery is offering tailored conversations to arrange cash sponsorships, product and gift card donations, food and beverage partnerships, silent auction contributions, or in-kind services. Participating partners will receive recognition across event communications, social media, and on-site signage. Interested sponsors can reach out via email at [email protected].
