Base31 Expands Its Public Art Program with the Launch of the Art Walk, a Collaboration between B31 District and Oeno Gallery

As Base31 continues to evolve as one of Ontario’s most dynamic cultural destinations, the organization is proud to announce the expansion of its growing public art program with the launch of the Art Walk, a collaboration between B31 District and Oeno Gallery.

The Art Walk builds on Base31’s commitment to integrating arts and culture throughout its historic site, inviting visitors to experience contemporary Canadian sculpture as they explore the site. Woven throughout the grounds are seven sculptures from Base31’s permanent public art collection alongside four sculptures on loan from Oeno Gallery, creating new opportunities for discovery while reinforcing Base31’s vision of art as an integral part of the visitor experience.

The Art Walk features works by Canadian artists including Eric Tardif, Danielle Reddick, Cynthia McQuillan, Kelly Cade, Viktor Mitic, Floyd Elzinga, Ken Hall, Natalie Schiabel and Toronto-based design collective Mondo Forma. Together, the collection encourages visitors to slow down, explore the district, and discover contemporary art in conversation with one of Canada’s most significant historic sites.

Since opening to the public, Base31 has continued to transform the former No. 31 Bombing and Gunnery School into a year-round destination for arts, culture, music, food, history and community. The addition of the Art Walk represents another step in that evolution, further enhancing the visitor experience while reinforcing Base31’s long-term commitment to weave arts and culture throughout the site.

"B31 District has always been about creating meaningful experiences that bring people together through culture, history and community," said Alexandra De Gasperis, Partner of PEC Community Partners. "The Art Walk is a natural extension of that vision and another step in the evolution of B31 District as a year-round cultural destination. We're intentionally weaving arts and culture throughout the site so that every visit offers something new to discover. Whether you're here for a concert, a meal, an event or simply exploring the District, the Art Walk invites visitors to experience Base31 in new ways while discovering remarkable works of Canadian art along the journey."

Presented in collaboration with Oeno Gallery, one of Canada’s leading contemporary art galleries, the Art Walk reflects a shared belief that exceptional art should be accessible and experienced beyond the walls of a traditional gallery.

"We're delighted to collaborate with our neighbour, Base31, on an initiative that brings the work of our contemporary Canadian sculptors into another cultural landscape," said Carlyn Moulton, Owner, Oeno Gallery. "Together, we're creating an experience that invites visitors to encounter exceptional Canadian sculpture in a setting where art, history and landscape come together in unexpected ways.”

Visitors to Base31 are invited to continue their exploration at Oeno’s renowned four-acre sculpture garden and gallery, located within Huff Estates vineyard, just a few minutes from Base31. The four sculptures featured in the Art Walk are also available for acquisition through Oeno Gallery, offering collectors the opportunity to experience the works before welcoming them into their own gardens.

The Art Walk marks the beginning of an ongoing collaboration between Base31 and Oeno Gallery, united by a shared commitment to celebrating Canadian artists and enriching Prince Edward County’s vibrant arts community.

Free to experience and open daily, the Art Walk can be explored at visitors’ own pace. Interpretive plaques accompany each sculpture, providing insight into the artists and their work, while a self-guided walking map helps guests discover the collection throughout the site.

The Art Walk represents one curated collection within Base31's broader public art program. While the outdoor sculptures form the heart of the Art Walk experience, visitors will also discover additional permanent artworks throughout the District, including three installations in the Exhibition Hall and three permanent pieces inside the Drill Hall. Together, these works reflect Base31's long-term commitment to placemaking by integrating arts and culture throughout the District, ensuring there is always something new to discover, whether attending a concert, exploring an exhibition, or simply spending time on site.

To celebrate the launch of the Art Walk, Base31 will participate in this year's Prince Edward County Culture Days, with special programming that celebrates the intersection of art, history and place. Programming details will be announced in the coming weeks.

For more information, artist details and a downloadable walking map, visit www.base31.ca/district/events/art-walk.