The popular Windows on Our World (WOW) art exhibit returns to Alexandria for six weeks of beauty and entertainment, beginning September 11.

Open to the art-curious 24 hours a day, WOW 2021 is an exhibition of 104 works by 23 eclectic artists, displayed in more than 20 venues through the town centre. Hosted by the Glengarry Artists’ Collective, Windows on Our World artwork hangs in business windows between Peel and Kenyon Streets on Main Street in Alexandria, from September 11 until October 24. Visitors can vote for their favourites and the winner will be announced at the close of the exhibition.

The six-week exhibit kicks off with WOWfest in Mill Square on Saturday, September 11. Events include:

  • Art in the Square, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Families can try painting and multi-media work on site, all materials supplied. Local artists share tips and techniques. Come discover your inner van Gogh!
  • Practice painting alla prima (all in one go) en pleine aire (in the great outdoors.)
  • ArtMart, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Local artists selling small art works, jewelery, cards, and creative items.
  • Live Music Under the Tent, from 1 p.m. Noël Campbell and Stephen Blondin will perform, as will Katie Ditschun.

The weekend of September 25-26, visitors are invited to piggyback on the Apples & Art tour, by visiting local studios and the Main Street show.

Finally, on Sunday, 24 October, the People’s Choice winner will be announced at Sandfield Centre in Island Park at 1 p.m. There will also be an art gift to the Township of North Glengarry.

Founded in October 2016, the Glengarry Artists’ Collective has 70 members. With the intent of making art a living asset in the region, to date the not-for-profit group has created:

  • Annual exhibitions: including at the Glengarry Pioneer Museum [2018-21]; Windows on Our World [WOW 2017, 18, 21]
  • Workshops for both members and the general public
  • County-wide art displays, readings, concerts, the Stuart McCormick Tribute
  • ArtBank: putting art in businesses year round
  • Three mural projects decorating the community

Singer-songwriter Katie Ditschun’s will perform on September 11 at WOWfest in Alexandria’s Mill Square. Submitted photo