About this Event
Join us on November 18 for an engaging evening with keynote speaker and Principal/Founder of ART+PUBLIC UnLtd, Rebecca Carbin, exploring the role public art can play in shaping a vibrant, connected region, and how local businesses, creatives and residents can be part of that conversation.
South Georgian Bay is already a destination. The shoreline, the Niagara Escarpment, the Blue Mountains and the Bruce Trail bring people here year-round to enjoy what nature has to offer. Galleries, theatres, makers, restaurants and independent shops give visitors reasons to stay in town. The region is also growing, with new residents and new visitors arriving every year.
Public art strengthens both sides of that picture. For visitors, it gives a place a distinct identity and connects its attractions, so people explore beyond a single activity and come back. For residents, it creates shared spaces and shared stories, and brings neighbours, businesses and artists together around common projects. The strongest work starts with what is already here, and leans into the landscape, history and people that make this area unlike anywhere else. As a community grows, that common ground matters as much as any new amenity.
You’ll leave with:
- Real-world lessons on how art builds identity, foot traffic and community pride
- Ideas for linking outdoor adventure, food, shopping and culture into experiences visitors will plan a day around
- Practical ways to match empty walls, storefronts and spaces with creators looking for a platform
- Active roles anyone can play as the region grows, whatever your budget
Who should attend: small business owners, artists, makers, content creators, cultural organizations and anyone who cares about where South Georgian Bay goes next.
Agenda:
5:30pm – Arrival/Networking/Nibbles
6:15pm – Keynote – Rebecca Carbin
7:30 – 8:30pm - Open space – lightly facilitated breakout groups that encourage connection and thought-sharing
Investment: $20 - nibbles and light refreshments included
When: Wednesday November 18, 2026 – 5:30pm – 8:30pm
Where: Butter Gallery - 126 Hurontario St, Collingwood, ON L9Y 2L8
About Rebecca Carbin, ART + PUBLIC UnLtd Principal:
Rebecca is the Principal and Founder of ART+PUBLIC UnLtd, a boutique public art consultancy based in Toronto. Founded in 2018, ART+PUBLIC UnLtd is a network of curators, artists, art administrators and planners who focus on developing and implementing exceptional opportunities at the intersection of art and public. Rebecca brings over 20 years experience planning, commissioning and curating art in the public realm in the United Kingdom, United States and across Canada, including building the Waterfront Toronto public art program.
Event venue & nearby stays
Butter Gallery, 126 Hurontario Street, Collingwood, Canada
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