Event 2026

Synopsis

In the 6th year, Art In My Garden was anticipated as a beloved community tradition. In 2026 over 2000 people attended during the 3 hour period to visit and interact with 70 artists across 35 private gardens, plus 3 dedicated art activities to participate in. The neighbourhood was transformed into an outdoor gallery and immersive experience as local homeowners and artists collaborated to share original artworks set amongst the gardens. From paintings and textiles to mosaics and sculptures, the event offered an inspiring showcase of creativity from Oakville artists. An estimated 15 new artists joined in 2026, adding to the already diverse representation of artists from across Oakville. Hanging in Harmony returned—a collaborative installation of 8” x 8" canvas squares painted by artists of all ages, each interpreting the theme “Joy in Nature” . This volunteer-led project hosted members of the public during 2 free weekend painting sessions hosted in Downtown Oakville, and engaged members of established groups in Oakville such as the Sir John Colbourne Acrylics group, Waterside Art Group, Oakville Art Collective, Knox Presbyterian Church, St Jude’s Church, Oak Park Neighbourhood, Ace Coworking collective and many local retailers within the BIA to participate. Members of the community painted canvas squares during the free painting sessions in August weekend (Sat and Sun) and also on the day of the event. Prior to the event, a number of 2025 artworks were exhibited at QEPCC from June- Sept. Artwork from 2026 was proudly displayed hanging between trees on Navy Street during the event. “ a visual expression of our perspectives—woven with belonging and rooted in community.” Art In My Garden was made possible through the generous support of Niblock Real Estate, Pine Glen Homes, and Proscape Land Design, Willmott & Strickland Architecture, and Lakeshore Securities along with the Oakville Arts Council and our valued Community and Support partners.

Funders/Supporters

Our thanks to all artists who generously donate their time and energy to show work on the day and to those who supported with the community art activity Hanging in Harmony prior to the event. Over 2000 visitors attended. 12-3pm was the official time but visitors arrived from 11am - many of them said they had attended before, some had discovered it just this year and some only just heard of it on the day and walked down from lakeshore to enjoy it. Post event a survey was sent to the 143 artists/hosts/ sponsors and with a 44% response rate we have gathered feedback and testimonials. 100% rate of satisfaction with some suggestions on small improvements. Art In My Garden was made possible through the generous support of Niblock Real Estate, Pine Glen Homes, Willmott & Strickland Architecture, Lakeshore Securities, and Proscape Land Design, along with the Oakville Arts Council and our valued Community and Support partners. In addition to financial support local business support at 14 separate locations displayed artwork in the windows for 4 weeks to help promote the event. Feedback from them was overwhelmingly positive as business owners could talk about their involvement in the event and support of the arts. Local visitors enjoyed the art and the click rate on the QR codes attached to art is proof that there is engagement from the viewers. People appreciate art in 'unexpected places'. This year we held free community art activities, inviting people to paint and take part in Hanging in Harmony on 2 weekends in August at Knox Presbyterian, plus during the event and by community art groups throughout the summer, and overall we gathered more than 350 8x8 canvas squares of original art. The feeling of welcome and inclusion for the public at large was well reported and many have asked if we would do it again.