Downtown Kingston’s rich history is not limited to its landmarks and architecture – the culture of our beautiful city has made our downtown a hot spot for art and artists alike. Whether you want to spend a rainy-day gazing upon brushstrokes, be charmed by an alley full of magic and splendour, or find your next one-of-a-kind wall adornment, then look no further. We’ve compiled a list of some amazing local art studios and galleries that will feed your soul and inspire your own inner artist.
Black Dog Pottery
Located at 58 Queen Street, is a storefront studio and gallery featuring the work of local potter Marc Lemieux. The Gallery features an ever-changing display of functional and decorative handcrafted porcelain and stoneware pieces and provides the perfect opportunity to find a unique locally made gift or an ideal piece of art for your own home. And who knows, you might catch a glimpse of the black dog herself, Sasha, while you’re there!
Kingston Glass Studios & Gallery
Founded by passionate collectors and artists, Kingston Glass Studio & Gallery at 56 Queen Street brings to life the artistic visions of over 30 emerging and established artists through fine contemporary glass, sculpture and artwork for home, corporate and commercial spaces. Shop their summer collection now.
Cornerstone Canadian Art & Craft
40 years ago, Cornerstone Canadian Art & Craft at 255 Ontario Street began when a group of local artists banded together to create a showcase for their work. Independently owned now, Cornerstone Canadian Art & Craft believes in Canadian artists and is proud to be able to tell patrons that "Everything in the shop is made in Canada".
Gallery Raymond
Gallery Raymond located at 334 Princess Street is Kingston’s largest commercial gallery representing 20 local artists and displaying over 200 works of art. Over 30 years old, Gallery Raymond has deep historical roots in the downtown community, echoed by its location in a historic former carriage way. The gallery hosts bi-monthly artist’s exhibitions focusing on new work by one or more artists. Gallery Raymond offers complete custom framing and an opportunity to experience what Kingston’s art community has to offer.
In 2007, an area in the Mews became available and was turned into The Warehouse Gallery. It functions as an overflow gallery, displaying more work and larger pieces of Gallery Raymond’s regularly featured artists. This section is open by appointment and during the bi-annual “Art After Dark” gallery tours sponsored by Kingston’s Downtown Business Association.
Martello Alley
Reminiscent of a quaint French village, Martello Alley tucked away at 203 B Wellington Street is an artist collective offering eclectic works that are sure to brighten any day. Offering original art work as well as prints, this is an art shopping experience designed for any budget and any style/size of space. What was once a dark, bleak alley, is now a colourful wonderland of art and design, thanks to visionary artist David Dossett.
Martello on Brock at 66 Brock Street is one of Downtown Kingston’s newest art experiences, featuring local artists and artisans in an historic setting. With art for sale in an array of different styles, Martello on Brock truly lives and breathes the idea of shopping local. And while you’re browsing, why not grab a selfie with their mascot, Sid.
Studio 22 Fine Art
Studio22 Open Gallery located at 320 King Street E exhibits contemporary art and artists from Kingston and across Canada, representing a broad spectrum of styles, media, and expression. With three floors of gallery space overlooking historic Market Square, City Hall, and a view of Wolfe Island, Studio22 is dedicated to the celebration of art in our lives. Studio22 is a commercial art gallery offering a vast array of fine art for both purchase and rental, design services and micro publishing.
Wanting to make some art of your own?
Kingston Frameworks
Kingston FrameWorks at 198 Princess Street uses professional-grade frame moulding from all over the world to offer the highest standard of materials for custom framing. They offer custom framing as well as digital printing, graphic design, photo and print mounting, and professional wall installation services. Their services and gallery are also now available online, so you can shop, print, and frame art all in one place.
4Cats Downtown Kingston Art Studio
4Cats at 181 Sydenham Street is your art studio for creating and spending quality time with your friends and family. It’s a place where people of all art experience levels come together to play, create and invite creativity into their lives. Their workshops include hand-building clay, painting, collage, silk screening, printmaking, clay wheel, and watercolours. Whether you’re looking to spend a weekend morning creating at the studio, an afternoon spending quality time with family, or a creative, fun evening out with friends, 4Cats is the place for fun, laughter, and joy.
Art Noise
Art Noise, located at 290 Princess Street, is a multifaceted brick & mortar retailer and e-commerce store with a unique range of products, classes and workshops for professionals and beginners alike. Some of their classes include beginner painting, life drawing, and pouring workshops. Art Noise also has two gallery rooms, which function as listening spaces for audio equipment as well. Looking for a vinyl by a lesser-known artist? Art Noise may have just what you’re looking for.