Exhibitions / Submissions
Exhibitions at the Public Art Centre take place in our Gallery ONE, TWO and THREE. Tours are free of charge and can be organized in advance for school and community groups. For more information please see Education Programs.
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Current Exhibitions
Great Beginnings Elementary Art Exhibition
February 28 - March 28, 2026
Opening reception February 28 from1-3 pm
The St. Thomas–Elgin Public Art Centre is pleased to present the Great Beginnings Elementary Art Exhibition, featuring a vibrant collection of student artwork that celebrates the power of art as a means of creativity, expression, and discovery. On view from February 28 to March 28, 2026, the exhibition highlights how hands-on art-making encourages imagination, visual thinking, and an appreciation for artistic processes from an early age. An opening reception will take place on February 28 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, and all are welcome to join in celebrating these young artists and their work.
In Conversation: Contrasts from the Permanent Collection
January 17 to February 21, 2026
Gallery Three
The St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre is excited to present In Conversation, a new exhibition that brings fresh insight to familiar favourites from our permanent collection. Rather than displaying works individually, this show pairs artworks that differ in mood, style, and technique - inviting visitors to explore how contrasting artists' choices shape the way we see then feel.
Each pairing highlights a unique point of comparison: bold colour, smooth surfaces, textured layers, precise lines and expressive marks. These side-by-side encounters reveal how artists use visual language to tell their stories, and how one artwork can transform our understanding of another when they share the same space.
Whether you're a lifelong art lover or a curious newcomer, In Conversation offers an engaging, interactive way to experience the collection. We invite you to visit, look closely, and discover how opposites spark new connections.
Upcoming Exhibitions
Great Beginnings Secondary Art Exhibition
April 4 - May 2, 2026
Opening reception April 11 from1-3 pm
The St. Thomas–Elgin Public Art Centre is pleased to present Great Beginnings Secondary School Art Exhibition, showcasing a compelling selection of student artwork that demonstrates skill, experimentation, and personal voice. On view from April 4 to May 2, 2026, the exhibition highlights the depth and diversity of creative practices developed by emerging artists at the secondary level. An opening reception will be held on April 11 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, and the public is warmly invited to attend and celebrate the talent and dedication of these students.
Submission Requirements for Artists: Public Art Centre Gallery Spaces
For more details on our gallery space see map below.
Please carefully review the following submission requirements:
1. Eligibility
- Artists of all backgrounds, styles, and experience levels are encouraged to apply.
- Individual artists or collaborative groups may submit.
2. Submission Format
- Digital Portfolio: A minimum of 10 high-quality images of recent works. Images should be in JPEG or PNG format (max file size: 5MB each). Website link is acceptable.
- Artist Statement: A statement describing your artistic vision, themes, and materials used.
- CV/Resume: Include your professional history, awards, exhibitions, and relevant experience.
3. Artwork Requirements
- Medium: All mediums are accepted, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.
- Size Limitations: Artwork must be suitable for standard exhibition dimensions. Large format and installations need to be outlined clearly in proposal.
- Installation Requirements: Specify any special installation needs for your work.
4. Submission Process
- Please email all required information to here Attention: Curator
- If you are sending your proposal via mail, please send to STEPAC, 301 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, ON. N5P1B5 c/o Curator
- Ensure that all files are clearly labeled with your name and the title of the artwork.
5. Important Dates
- Submission Deadline: ongoing
- Notification of Acceptance: Artists will be notified if their proposal is accepted.
- Review of proposals occurs annual in November
6. Exhibition Agreement
- Selected artists will be required to sign an exhibition agreement outlining terms, including insurance, sales, and commissions.
- Artwork must remain on display for the entirety of the exhibition period.
7. Questions
- For inquiries or additional information, please contact us at Curator 
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