As the holidays approach, Merrickville starts to sparkle with festive spirit. The heritage streets come alive with lights, laughter, and that wonderful mix of creativity and community that makes the village so special. It’s the perfect backdrop for the Merrickville Arts Guild (MAG) Christmas Art and Fine Craft Show — a favourite local tradition that celebrates the talent and imagination of local artists.
Step inside the Merrickville Community Centre on November 22 and 23 and you’ll find an amazing variety of work — silver jewellery that catches the light, colourful paintings, cozy textiles, fine woodwork, and beautiful mixed media pieces. Every item is handcrafted, one-of-a-kind, and full of heart. If you’re hunting for that perfect gift (or just want to treat yourself!), this is the place to find something truly special.
MAG is thrilled to showcase the following talented artists at the show (with more to come!). Which ones catch your eye?
Joanne Anderson creates wildlife and pet portraits using coloured pencils or watercolours, capturing her subjects with striking detail. Brenda Barclay-Smith paints bold, nostalgic, whimsical, and architectural scenes that are instantly recognizable. Posy Bennett’s hyper-realistic landscape oil paintings serve as windows into moments in nature, while John Chambers, an award-winning photographer, showcases wildlife and landscape images that could appear in any fine magazine.
Irene Chahley designs upcycled, rescued, and redesigned one-of-a-kind fashion pieces. Don Crowder transforms rough timber into artistic yet functional household items. Lorrane DeLangis’s indoor and outdoor sculptures have been featured in local galleries. Dave Dunn blends abstract, expressionist, and realist techniques in his wildlife paintings, and Katharine Fletcher’s whimsical works interpret the magic and mystery found in nature.
Derrick Hewitt creates Mi’kmaq arts, including hair tufting, inukshuks, and painted drums. Darry Kicul builds fairie houses and other wood sculptures full of wonder and whimsy. Laura Kingsbury paints distinctive landscapes sought by international collectors. Kenna McCall crafts original silver art jewellery, featuring hand-cut rare gemstones, while Pamela Prince creates wearable art jewellery using silver wire and precious stones.
Lisa McShane uses fine threads and embellishments to embroider lush fabric landscapes. August Wormitt paints in watercolours, capturing emotion and timeless moments of place. These artists offer a rich mix of media and styles, each interpreting nature, form, and imagination in their own distinct way.
But the Merrickville show is about more than shopping — it’s about connection. It’s a chance to meet the makers, share stories, and enjoy the warmth of community. The Starving Artists Café adds to the experience with fresh coffee, homemade treats, and a cozy place to pause and chat with friends old and new.
And when you step back outside, the magic keeps going. Merrickville’s streets are always a joy to wander, especially when the lights are twinkling and shop windows are decked out for the season. Pop into a few of local boutiques or galleries, grab a warm drink or a good meal at one of the cafés, and take your time soaking it all in. You’ll head home with more than just art — you’ll take a bit of Merrickville’s holiday spirit with you.
