The Rocca Sisters Blog

If you are an art lover in Hamilton, Ontario, you know that the city is fast becoming one of the most culturally relevant spots in Southern Ontario. If you are a lover of the arts, this is our list of not-to-be-missed things to see and do in the city.

Art Crawl

This event is credited as one of the catalysts for revival of James Street North, and the solid establishment of Hamilton’s arts renaissance. Now in its eleventh year, the Hamilton Art Crawl is held on the second Friday of every month, rain or shine. The event is open to everyone and includes galleries, restaurants, bars, shops, studios, most of which are open late to accommodate the hundreds –sometimes thousands– of the visitors that make up the foot traffic. Galleries along James North often host exhibits that open the night of the Crawl. These spaces include Hamilton Artists, Inc.,  Centre 3,  and You, Me, Gallery, all of which have a tradition of showcasing the best in local talent. On cooler days, it’s a pleasure to stop in at White Elephant Boutique to check out their gorgeous Canadian made clothing and lovely window displays, or for a warming cuppa at Mulberry Coffeehouse between gallery visits.  With so much to do and see, there is truly something for everyone at any age!

Art Gallery of Hamilton

Established over 100 years ago as the Municipal Gallery of Hamilton at a library in West Hamilton and relocated several times before finding its permanent home on King Street West in 1977, this gallery is the granddaddy of the Hamilton art scene. The Gallery’s permanent collections include important works by important artists such as Tom Thomson, William Blare Bruce, and Alex Colville. Current exhibitions include Michael Snow 1947 – 1962 and the exciting Contemporaries exhibition. The Women’s Art Association of Hamilton is also running their exceptional juried exhibition of new works by local female artists until March 7th.

Hamilton Children’s Museum

For the youngest creative spirit or art lover in your family, the Hamilton Children’s Museum is a great place for kids to expand their imaginations through interactive galleries, hands-on exhibits and self-directed play. Located in a 19th century farmhouse at the edge of Gage Park, the home was once the residence of Hamilton’s Gage family. Introducing children to the joy of creativity is a great way to facilitate a lifelong love of art and culture that kids of all ages will appreciate for years to come. Make sure to check out the Museum’s Family Day event, and their March Break lineup.