Media Release: 2026 Rideau Artist of the Year
The Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum invites artists and the public to the picturesque downtown core on Saturday, July 25 for the Big Art Walk—an annual celebration of local art and creativity, organized by the Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Smiths Falls Business Association, with support from the Town of Smiths Falls.
A highlight of this year’s event is the Rideau Artist of the Year en plein air competition, which will take place throughout the day as part of the Big Art Walk. Participating artists will create original works on site, capturing the beauty and character of the Rideau Canal region in Smiths Falls. From the historic combined lock and Confederation Park to the cenotaph, downtown streets, and the Carnegie Library, the community will serve as both inspiration and backdrop.
In keeping with the en plein air tradition, artists from across the region will work outdoors and in real time. The competition is open to all mediums, with artists given from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. to complete and submit their work to the Museum’s gallery.
The Big Art Walk runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and welcomes visitors to explore the downtown core, where they can view artwork displayed on Downtown Business Association banners, visit the pop-up gallery on Beckwith Street, and discover art featured in participating businesses. Visitors will also have the opportunity to see the en plein air artists in action, alongside a chalk mural artist, live music, and refreshments.
Advance registration for the Big Art Walk is available at experiencesmithsfalls.ca for $10. Registered participants will receive a canvas tote bag, three greeting cards featuring local artwork, and entry into a grand prize draw for an original piece by local artist Leah Hicks.
Following the event, a jury of art professionals will review the competition submissions. The Grand Prize winner will receive $1,000 and be named the 2026 Rideau Artist of the Year, with second place receiving $300. Artist registration is open until July 18, 2026. Selected competition artwork will be exhibited at the Heritage House Museum gallery from August 8 to October 4, 2026. Visitors are invited to vote for the People’s Choice Award, with the winning artist receiving $100 in Downtown Smiths Falls Dollars and free
entry into the 2027 competition.
Additional artwork will also be featured at the Beckwith Street gallery through the end of August, further showcasing the depth of local talent. The public is encouraged to join in, explore the downtown, and experience art in action along the historic Rideau waterway.
The Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or by appointment. For more information or to register as an artist, please contact the Museum at 613-283-6311 or heritagehouse@smithsfalls.ca.
Included photo: Rideau Artist of the Year promotional graphic
