The Orillia Museum of Art & History and the City of Orillia invite artists to submit works for the upcoming exhibition at the Stack Gallery (Orillia Recreation Centre) and the Green Room Gallery (Orillia Opera House), in partnership with the Orillia Opera House. The exhibition invites artists to interpret the theme ‘The Art of Summer’ through new or existing original works of art.
This theme pays tribute to the ongoing success of professional Summer Theatre at the Orillia Opera House. Orillia Summer Theatre is a professional theatre program hosted at the Orillia Opera House, featuring high-quality, in-house productions that entertain both locals and visitors throughout the summer months. Over the past decade, this program has flourished, creating in-house productions in Orillia and touring them across Ontario. With near sold-out performances in 2023 and expanded showtimes in 2024, this milestone marks a defining chapter in Orillia’s rich theatre history. To celebrate this achievement, artists are invited to submit works that capture the spirit of summer in Orillia. Submissions may be inspired by performances, festivals, community gatherings, or the energy of summer life in the community.
“The arts have always been at the heart of Orillia’s identity, shaping our history and making our city truly unique,” said Mayor Don McIsaac. “Orillia has long been a home for artists, and this exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate that legacy. I encourage artists to share their talents and creative perspectives on what makes summer in Orillia so special.”
“I am thrilled to collaborate with the City of Orillia on co-curating community exhibitions in city facilities,” said Ninette Gyorody, Executive Director of OMAH. This partnership allows us to bring art directly into public spaces, fostering creativity, connection, and cultural engagement for our community.”
The call is open to artists from all locations, however priority may be given to those residing or working in the City of Orillia, Chippewas of Rama First Nation, and the Townships of Oro-Medonte, Severn, or Ramara. The exhibition will be displayed at both locations from June to December 2025. The deadline to apply is May 23, 2025, at noon.
“We are thrilled to honour the legacy of professional Summer Theatre at the Orillia Opera House through this exciting partnership with the Orillia Public Art Committee,” said Nicole McMurdy, Audience and Visitor Information Services Coordinator at the Orillia Opera House. “‘The Art of Summer’ is a wonderful opportunity for artists to showcase the vibrancy that defines Orillia’s summer season and we look forward to seeing how artists bring this milestone to life through their work.”
Artwork will be juried and selected in partnership with the Orillia Museum of Art & History, the Orillia Opera House, and creative community members. Selections will be based on artistic merit, diversity of mediums, and contribution to the overall narrative of the exhibition.
