Upcycle TOM Expands Across the River District

The Tom Thomson Art Gallery (The TOM), in partnership with Owen Sound Waste Watchers (OSWW), is pleased to announce that Upcycle TOM is travelling beyond the gallery walls and into the River District and surrounding community, transforming storefronts into display spaces that highlight beautiful upcycled student creations inspired by Tom Thomson’s Wildflowers. These inspiring works will be on display throughout the month of May, highlighting student creativity while promoting art as a catalyst for environmental awareness and change.

The project features artistic works created by Hillcrest Elementary School students, reimagined through found and repurposed materials and inspired by Tom Thomson’s painting Wildflowers. Visitors are invited to explore installations across participating River District businesses, with additional works featured at Upwards Art (Heritage Place Shopping Centre) and The TOM.

The public will also have the opportunity to bid on these one-of-a-kind artworks, with all proceeds directly supporting Hillcrest Elementary School arts programming, The TOM, and Owen Sound Waste Watchers sustainability initiatives.

This year’s expanded community reach is made possible through generous support from the Community Foundation Grey Bruce, helping bring student artwork beyond the gallery and into storefronts and public spaces across the River District and beyond.

As part of the experience, visitors can receive a limited-edition Upcycle TOM tote bag (while supplies last) while exploring participating locations and supporting local businesses.

This community initiative brings together art, sustainability, and local engagement, inviting residents and visitors to experience creativity in everyday spaces while supporting arts education, environmental stewardship, and community programming.

Participating River District businesses include The Vintage Magpie, Body Science, Sweetpea, Treehouse Children’s Clothing, Wild Flowers Consignment Boutique, Curio, Grey Gallery, Lawson’s, Riverside Yarns, Owen Sound Artists Co-op, and The Milk Maid.

For more information, please contact:
Heather McLeese, Curator of Public Projects & Education, Tom Thomson Art Gallery
519-376-1932 ext. 5006 | hmcleese@tomthomson.org

Quick Facts

• Upcycle TOM installation duration: May 1–31, 2026 at River District businesses + Upwards Art + The TOM
• The public is encouraged to explore installations throughout May, support local businesses, and take part in bidding on student artworks that celebrate creativity, sustainability, and community connection.

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