Art Belongs to Everyone:

A Community Project Takes Shape in Owen Sound
 

Last summer in Owen Sound, a simple idea brought people together: create something as a
community, with no experience required.
Through four open community paint-ins, more than 150 participants from across Grey Bruce
contributed to “It’s a Wrap – Canvas and Connection,” a project led by Artcures, a new grassroots
non-profit art initiative based in Owen Sound. Using rollers, brushes, and acrylic markers, participants
transformed over 600 square feet of donated canvas into a shared work of art.
The process was intentionally inclusive. People of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds were invited to
take part, many for the first time. What emerged was not only a large-scale artwork but a space
where creativity encouraged connection, participation, and a sense of belonging.
That canvas has since been carefully cut into ribbons, hemmed, and waterproofed in preparation for
its next phase as a public outdoor installation. Known as the Peace Art Ribbons, the work reflects a
theme of peace inspired by nature’s quiet strength and the symbolic act of wrapping as a gesture of
renewal, connection, and care.
While the finished installation will be on display throughout the summer in downtown Owen Sound,
the impact of the project began long before its completion. The paint-ins created opportunities for
people to meet, share stories, and engage in a collaborative process that emphasized inclusion over
outcome
Artcures was founded on the belief that creative expression can support well-being, encourage
personal growth, and strengthen communities. Its focus is on developing accessible art experiences
that invite participation and foster meaningful connections across Grey Bruce.
“It’s a Wrap – Canvas and Connection” represents the organization’s first public project and signals a
broader vision of community-based art—one that exists not only in galleries, but in shared public
spaces shaped by the people who take part.
The public is invited to attend the opening celebration of the Peace Art Ribbons in front of City Hall
during the Hottest Street Sale on July 11 th. Visitors are encouraged to experience the installation and
share their reflections by posting photos using #ArtcuresGreyBruce.
The project was supported by a grant from the Community Foundation Grey Bruce and First United Church as our Not-for-Profit Community Partner, as well as through
contributions from local partners and participants.
As the installation comes to life, it stands as a visible reminder of what can be created when a
community is invited to create something together.