WHERE TALENT & IMAGINATION COLLIDE

The art scene in Charlottetown is alive and well. Whether it’s the energizing forces of the ocean, the stillness found in the forests, or the vibrant pulse you feel in the seaside capital, the Island’s enchanting nature draws so much creative talent here. The resulting effect in Charlottetown is beautiful and thought-provoking with inspiring moments at nearly every turn.

ART AROUND TOWN - It’s impossible to explore downtown Charlottetown without happening upon pieces of public art. In 2022, three new lively and colourful murals by world-renowned artists were added to downtown Charlottetown building façades. Keep an eye out for Jieun Kim’s creation on the backside of City Cinema (64 King St), I AM EELCO’s eye-catching design on the side of the Charlottetown Fire Hall (89 Kent St), and Mister Piro’s handiwork on the side of 138 Kent Street. There’s also a larger-than-life Erika Rutherford print hung on the exterior of The Old Triangle, among others.

VISUAL ARTS UNDER ONE ROOF - The National Art Gallery at Confederation Centre of the Arts is a must-visit. Featuring works by renowned Canadian artists and an intriguing roster of rotating exhibits, the Gallery experience is engaging, inspiring, approachable, and open to all ages. Enjoy a short visit or spend the whole afternoon in the CCAG’s spacious setting and discover a wide range of exhibitions, from modern design to historical pieces. Over at The Guild, Island artists are celebrated and showcased in rotating exhibitions throughout the year.

A MAGICAL TRANSFORMATION - In late summer (Aug 26), Charlottetown’s public spaces transform into an artistic wonderland for one day only during Art in the Open. This free, family-friendly contemporary arts festival runs from 4pm until midnight and features unique, interactive art installations throughout the downtown core. A highlight for many is the March of the Crows, a grassroots parade that pays homage to the city’s large crow population and attracts many costumed participants. Ending at Victoria Park at dusk, it’s the perfect precursor for the illuminated pieces that can often be found throughout the park after dark.

LIVE MUSIC AND FESTIVALS - From intimate venues to open-air concerts, live music is something that’s cherished in Charlottetown. We’re fortunate to have a mix of intimate live music venues like The Trailside Music Hall and larger spaces like Confederation Centre or PEI Brewing Company. Outdoor spaces like Peake’s Wharf and Victoria Row really take centre stage in the summer months, while the regular stream of live music in pubs & bars and multi-day music festivals infuse the city with palpable energy throughout the year.

HANDCRAFTED CREATIONS - The downtown core is also home to several shops that showcase locally-crafted pieces made by talented artisans, including jewellery, pottery, wood art, woven pieces, and lots more. In fact, a number of artisans have their own studios/shops that are open to the public, so be sure to drop by and watch them in action. Of special mention is Garnish Jewellery on Water Street, where owner and metalsmith, Stacey Leunes (along with her sweet pups, Willow & Fern), can often be found working on various hand-forged pieces.

MESMERIZING MUSICALS - Confederation Centre’s Charlottetown Festival is a summer staple with a variety of shows playing between their two stages.

• MAGGIE is set in post-war Scotland and tells the inspirational (and true!) tale of a fiery school cleaner living in the mining town of Lanarkshire. (June 21 –September 2, Sobey Family Theatre)

• The Play That Goes Wrong is an award-winning smash-hit Sherlock Holmes meets Monty Python production comedy that has taken over Broadway and London’s West End. (June 14 – September 23, Sobey Family Theatre)

• The Songs of Johnny & June is an energetic show that celebrates the lives and songs of Johnny Cash and June Carter, country music’s most iconic couple. (July 6 – September 2, The Mack)

• I’m Every Woman is a revue of iconic music that changed the world. This cabaret features five powerhouse vocalists performing empowering songs from legendary women. (July 3 – September 22, The Mack)