Froid'Art

Presented by Martello Alley

Froid'Art

Presented by Martello Alley

Celebrate the Kingston Art Scene

An Outdoor Art Walk

From January 25 until the ice blocks melt.

An enchanting outdoor art walk is breathing new life into Downtown Kingston this winter!  Martello Alley presents the Froid'Art exhibition in Downtown Kingston, showcasing artworks crafted by local artists, frozen into crystal-clear blocks of ice. This unique experience is free and easy to enjoy! All you have to do is take a trip downtown and start exploring.

Where: Find these gorgeuse art pieces in the courtyard at Martello Alley, the courtyard at Rochleau Court (near BMO Nesbitt Burns and the Black Dog Tavern rear patio), and the Visitor Information Centre.

2025 Pieces

"The Hip”

Artist: David Dossett

This artwork honors The Tragically Hip, a legendary Canadian rock band formed in Kingston, in 1984. Known for their chart-topping hits and numerous Juno Awards, the band released 13 albums over 33 years. Their final concert was held in Kingston in 2016 following Gord Downie's terminal cancer diagnosis.

"Zeewat"

Artist: David Dossett

This piece reflects David Dossett's love for Zihuatanejo, a Pacific Coast town in Mexico known for its traditional charm and vibrant tourism. David and his wife Wendy frequently visited this destination, which inspired the creation of this artwork.

"S.S. Keewatin Near Stern"

Artist: David Gilmore

This vibrant painting showcases the SS Keewatin, a historic passenger liner that sailed the waters between Thunder Bay and Port McNicoll, Ontario. It was a vital part of the Canadian Pacific Railway's Great Lakes steamship service

"Cosmic Bliss"

Artist: Helen Baker

This abstract artwork, created during a total solar eclipse, celebrates the wonders of the universe. Helen Baker's vibrant, imaginative works reflect her appreciation for cosmic and earthly beauty.

"Life and Love"

Artist: Jabra Mitwasi

This captivating piece combines Arabic contemporary calligraphy with mixed media and acrylics to depict "life" and "love." Created by Jabra Mitwasi, a Palestinian artist with a Master’s in Design, his deep expertise in calligraphy and typography shines through in the intricate and expressive details of the artwork.

"Winter in Kingston"

Artist: Joanne Gervais

This artwork captures the tranquil beauty of a Kingston winter. Joanne Gervais blends her classical training in life drawing with contemporary influences, creating works that balance organic essence with striking composition, whether in portraits, abstracts, or landscapes.

"Rosebary Loon"

Artist: Leith Channen

This watercolor painting brings to life a loon splashing in the golden dawn light on Rosebary Lake in Algonquin Park. Drawing inspiration from Ontario’s stunning landscapes and her mother’s artistic spirit, Leith Channen captures the delicate interplay of light, color, and emotion in her piece.

"The Great Blue Heron"

Artist: Lucy DeSousa

This acrylic painting captures the elegance of a great blue heron standing on a rock, set against a bold, abstract backdrop. Lucy DeSousa, a mixed media artist, draws inspiration from nature and family, creating dynamic, colorful pieces that reflect her joyful perspective.

"Dingle Bay

Artist: Pat Shea

This inviting art piece depicts the scenic Dingle Bay in Ireland, known for its historical significance and natural beauty. Pat Shea, a self-taught artist from Kingston, draws inspiration from Canadian and European Impressionists.

"Chez Piggy"

Artist: Piotr Bielicki

This piece honors Chez Piggy, the beloved Kingston restaurant housed in a historic limestone stable and founded by Zal Yanovsky of The Lovin’ Spoonful. Piotr Bielicki, an accomplished artist with over 30 years in animated film, creates works that reflect his rich experience in storytelling and visual design.

Visit them all!

Visit the 9 blocks of ice with art frozen inside by using this self-guided walking tour. Discover where you can find the pieces by clicking the map.

You can also plan your route at night due to the blocks will glow.

Here are the 5 spots where you can find the pieces:

  1. Kingston Visitor Information Centre

  2. Tara Natural Foods

  3. Rochleau Court

  4. Martello Alley

  5. BMO Nesbitt Burns

Relive Froid'Art

Produced by

Martello Alley, an art-themed historic alley in Downtown Kingston, representing local artists.

Supported by

Downtown Kingston BIA, representing +700 Downtown property and business owners.

Produced by

Martello Alley, an art-themed historic alley in Downtown Kingston, representing local artists.

Supported by

Downtown Kingston BIA, representing +700 Downtown property and business owners.

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