Kingston is an artistic city. Read on to find your next stop to shop for local art in Kingston, plus upcoming events and exhibits.
Pottery
Black Dog Pottery
58 Queen St.
Open: Mon.–Fri., 10 am–5 pm
Take a walk over to Queen Street to shop for handmade porcelain and stoneware pottery by local artist and owner Marc Lemieux at Black Dog Pottery. He has been making pottery in downtown Kingston for 25 years. You’ll find a variety of kitchenware items, art pieces to display, and more. If you see a cute black dog while you’re there, that’s Pepper, the black dog that gives Black Dog Pottery its name.
A Girl And Her Puppy Pottery Studio
1786 Bath Rd. Unit 8
Open: Tues.–Fri., noon–6 pm
Looking to take part in some pottery classes? Take part in a two-hour hand building and throwing classes, two-hour children pottery classes (for ages 7–12), or other classes and bring home a piece of art. Only interested in shopping? Here, you’ll find everything from garden and home items that elevate your space to jewelry and pet products you and your furry friend will fall in love with, all crafted right in their Kingston studio.
Art galleries
Gallery Raymond
334 Princess St.
Open: Mon.–Fri., 9:30 am–5:30 pm & Sat.,10 am–5 pm
For decades, Gallery Raymond has been the spot to go for framing services, purchasing or renting local art, and art exhibitions. The gallery boasts a large commercial gallery representing local artists and a selection of over 400 works of art. Next time you visit downtown Kingston, stop in and find a unique art piece, or attend their next art exhibition to see a new artist’s work and meet the artist. Follow them on Facebook to stay updated on upcoming exhibitions.
Martello Alley
203 B Wellington St.
Open: Daily, 10 am–5 pm
One of Kingston’s hidden gems, Martello Alley is an art gallery-themed historic alley in downtown Kingston. As you make your way through this unique gallery, you will find work by more than 20 local artists, including paintings, postcards, pottery, jewelry, and more. While you’re browsing in the alley, take a look at the ground. Notice anything? The ground is covered in brick, but not real bricks: each brick was painted on by the owner, David Dossett.
And, if you didn’t find a piece that spoke to you, head over to their newest location, Martello on Brock (66 Brock St.), to find more local artwork (only a three-minute walk from Martello Alley).
Other art finds
General Brock’s Commissary
55 Brock St.
Open: Tues.–Sat., 10 am–5 pm & Sun., noon–4 pm
Find items inspired by history and heritage at General Brock’s Commissary. The shop showcases and sources local products in Ontario, including products by Oscardo Canadian Indigenous Art Gifts. From fashion and travel accessories to home and kitchen items, you’ll find creative art to wear and display. In-store you’ll also find their War of 1812 gallery. Be sure to ask about these pieces while you’re shopping to get a mini art gallery tour.
When the weather is warmer, you might even find local artist Joanne Gervais working on a new creation outside the store.
Something Else Records
207A Wellington St.
Open: Mon.–Sat., 11 am–6 pm & Sun. noon–4 pm
At Something Else Records, in addition to a wide selection of music, you’ll also find posters, prints, and hand-painted cards created by local artists. Check them out in-store and online.
The VIC makers section
209 Ontario St.
Open: Sun.–Wed., 10 am–5 pm & Thurs.–Sat., 10 am–6 pm
Make sure to check out the makers’ section at the Visitor Information Centre. They feature a variety of local makers in their shop. Stay tuned for new makers being featured at the VIC by following Visit Kingston on Facebook and Instagram.
Bonus: upcoming art events
Find more local art at these upcoming events:
- Art Threads: Kingston Fibre Artists exhibition at the Tett Centre: Apr. 5–27, 10 am–5 pm
- Kingston Potters’ Guild Spring Sale at the Tett Centre: Apr. 1–4
- The BIG Art Show at the Tett Centre: May 2, 6–10 pm; May 3, 11 am–5 pm; May 4, 11 am–4 pm
- Gunguo Sculpture Farm at 1414 Unity Rd.: May 9–11, 14–19, 21–24, & 29–31
- Art After Dark in Downtown Kingston: May 23, 7–10 pm
