Alton Mill Arts Centre hosting spring open house

Open house will take place on May 4 and 5

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Caledon residents are invited to celebrate spring and the arts at an upcoming event. 

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 4 and 5, the Alton Mill Arts Centre is hosting its spring open house. 

Bri Wilson, the Centre's Marketing Manager, explained this year's theme is “Spring Rejuvenation”.

“Alton Mill Arts Centre invites you to join us… for a weekend filled with artistic exploration, hands-on workshops, and celebrations of springtime and Mother's Day,” said Wilson. “Experience a day filled with creativity and inspiration as you explore our open studios, meet working artists, peruse galleries, and immerse yourself in the rich history of our heritage site.”

There's a number of different workshops taking place during the course of the open house weekend.

On May 4, guests can learn how to create their own teacup beeswax candle. There will be an assortment of teacups available to choose from, or guests can bring their own. No registration is required for this workshop, which costs $20 to $30 depending on the cup one chooses. 

Also on May 4, attendees of the open house can learn how to use wool fabric to make a bunch of lavender flowers. They can be used as a table decoration, and participants can take their flowers home in a vintage milk glass vase. Pre-registration is required for this workshop, and it can be done online at altonmill.ca.

On May 5, guests can get artsy while doing something good for the environment. That day, there will be a workshop where attendees can learn how to turn their unwanted garments into a beautiful rug. Pre-registration is also required for this workshop, and it can be done online at altonmill.ca.

All weekend at the open house, there will be special children's art programming, where kids will learn to make a beautiful Mother's Day gift.

CJ Shelton, an artist-in-residence at the Alton Mill Arts Centre, will be doing tarot card readings from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 4. Readings are $30 for 15 minutes.

Gallery Gemma, which is in the centre, will host a “Pearl Roundtable” on May 4 and 5. Those interested in attending can reach out to Gallery Gemma at 519-938-8386 or info@gallerygemma.com.

A special community project will take place on May 4 and 5, as the Alton Mill Arts Centre looks to implement a pollinator garden — using a canoe. 

On the Saturday, help is needed moving stones for the base. On Sunday, people will work together to plant the garden full of plant species pollinators love. 

“Join us for this celebration of art, creativity, and springtime,” said Wilson. “Admission is free, and all are welcome to join in the festivities.”

Those looking for more information about the open house can email Wilson at bri@altonmill.ca.