Sketch your story: Oakville’s Faces of Culture project invites community art

Create a portrait that reflects your unique interpretation of culture

The Town of Oakville invites residents to take part in Faces of Culture: A Community Sketchbook Project, a portrait exhibition that celebrates identity, creativity, and cultural diversity. This community-driven initiative is part of Oakville’s annual Culture Days festival and will be on display in the Main Gallery at Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre (QEPCCC) from September 19 to October 12, 2025.

Participants are encouraged to create a portrait that reflects their personal interpretation of culture. Whether it’s a self-portrait, someone meaningful, or a symbolic or imagined face, each submission is a chance to explore and express identity, heritage, and community. The exhibition is open to all ages and skill levels. 

Portraits can be created on-site at QEPCCC during select workshops in September and October, or dropped off during the submission period, which runs from September 5 to October 4, 2025. Please ensure submissions reflect the values of our community - positive, respectful, and suitable for all ages. Full details can be found on the project page. 

Portrait guidelines:

• Artwork must be created on paper using any two-dimensional medium, including drawing, painting, collage, photography, or mixed media
• Maximum size: 20" x 24"

Free drop-in art workshops led by a local artist at QEPCCC are held in the Main Gallery. Materials are supplied. Walk-ins are welcome, and pre-registration is recommended at programs.oakville.ca. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

• Youth Night with Yen Linh Thai: Friday, September 19, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• Seniors’ Afternoon with Ray Vidal: Wednesday, October 1, 1 to 3 p.m.
• All Ages Workshop with Ray Vidal: Saturday, October 4, 1 to 3 p.m.
• Maker Station with Yen Linh Thai: Sunday, October 5, 10 a.m. to noon

Portraits submitted by October 4 will be eligible for the Faces of Culture Awards, presented during the Culture Days Celebration on Sunday, October 5, from 1 to 3 p.m. at QEPCCC. 

Award categories include:

• Heart in the Art Award
• Young Visionary Award
• Joy of Making Award
• People’s Portrait Choice Award

For full submission details, visit the Call for Submissions page, for workshop information, and more, visit the Faces of Culture page.