River Mill Park will transform into an outdoor art studio once again as the sixth annual Canoe Mural Project returns with a new theme.
This year’s Street Art Edition, taking place tomorrow (July 1) at River Mill Park in Huntsville, will feature seven street graffiti artists transforming the undersides of donated canoes into murals inspired by the iconic landscape paintings of Tom Thomson.
Organizers said the creative process will unfold live from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering the public an opportunity to see the artists at work as the canoe murals come to life throughout the day.
Huntsville Festival of the Arts Artistic Director Dan Watson said the project has traditionally invited local artists to create works inspired by Tom Thomson or the Group of Seven, but organizers wanted to take a different approach this year.
“This year, we’re switching it up,” Watson said. “I’m really excited. These artists that we have coming are incredible. It will really be something to see.”
The event will also feature a live hip-hop DJ and breakdancers, adding to the energetic atmosphere of this year’s theme.
“It will be a mashup of hip-hop street culture meets the paddling/canoe culture of Muskoka,” Watson said.
The finished canoe murals will be displayed free to the public at River Mill Park throughout the summer. In 2027, they will be featured in the Algonquin Outfitters Paddle Art Auction, raising funds to support arts and culture organizations across Ontario.
