Public Art

In Orillia, art isn’t just something we enjoy, it is part of our identity. From murals to sculptures to installations, our city is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Our growing collection of public art is a reflection of this creative spirit. These works enhance our public spaces, celebrate local stories, and help shape the cultural fabric of our community.

Call for artists

The City is committed to supporting artists and bringing creative experiences into public spaces. Browse current opportunities below for full details, including eligibility, budgets, and how to apply. If no opportunities are listed, please check back regularly for future calls.

Open Call: Culture Days Call for Storytellers

Storytelling can take many forms. Poetry, music, singing, dancing, spoken word, monologues, comedy, acting, and other creative performances are all welcome.

Come take the stage at Culture Days 2026 and share a personal memory, a meaningful experience, something that has shaped you, or simply an idea you’d like to explore.

No previous performance experience is required.

Space is limited, so register in advance to secure a spot in the lineup.

Registration Deadline: September 28 at Noon

*Performers have 5 minutes (max) on stage. A microphone will be provided; performers are responsible for bringing any other materials or equipment required for their performance.

Open Call: Indigenous Art Exhibition

"WHAT WE CARRY FORWARD"

Call for Indigenous Artists

The City of Orillia, in partnership with the Orillia Native Women’s Group, invites Indigenous artists (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) to submit artwork for What We Carry Forward, an exhibition running December 2026 to May 2027.

Recognizing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Sisters in Spirit, the exhibition creates a space for remembrance and reflection, honouring ancestors, relatives, Elders, community members, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+). Artists are invited to reflect on the people, voices, teachings and stories that have shaped who we are and what we carry forward.

WHO CAN APPLY
Indigenous artists who identify as First Nation, Métis or Inuit.

WHAT CAN I SUBMIT?
New or existing artwork, including traditional and contemporary creative practices such as:

Beadwork, quillwork, regalia, clothing and jewelry
Photography, painting, drawing and digital work
Poetry, lyrics and recipes
Textiles, mixed media and decorative or heirloom works
Other traditional or contemporary creative practices

COST TO APPLY
Free. Artists may choose to make their work available for purchase during the exhibition.

APPLICATION DEADLINE
Friday, October 23, 2026

APPLY NOW

Open Call: "Something from Home" (Lakehead University + Stack Gallery)

"SOMETHING FROM HOME"

Call for Artists

The City of Orillia, in partnership with Lakehead University, invites artists, students and members of the public to submit original artwork for Something from Home, an exhibition at the Stack Gallery in the Orillia Recreation Centre.

What does home mean to you? It might be a country of origin, hometown, family, person, place, tradition, food, object, landscape, memory or story. Artists are invited to interpret the theme broadly and share their own experiences of home, belonging, culture and connection.

WHAT CAN I SUBMIT?
New or existing original artwork, including but not limited to photography, painting, drawing, poetry, recipes, lyrics, textiles, digital prints, mixed-media works, or other creative works. Works must be capable of being mounted or otherwise installed on a gallery wall.

WHO CAN APPLY
This call is open to everyone, including artists, students and members of the public, regardless of background or experience level.

COST TO APPLY
Free.

APPLICATION DEADLINE
Friday, October 23, 2026 at noon.

APPLY NOW