MacLaren Art Centre

The MacLaren Art Centre is a regional public art gallery located in Barrie, Ontario. It serves the residents of Barrie, the County of Simcoe, and the surrounding area. The gallery has a permanent collection of over 26,600 works of art, which are held in trust for the public. It offers a year-round program of world-class exhibitions, education activities, and special events. The MacLaren Art Centre is housed in a historic building, originally the Carnegie library, which has been renovated with a contemporary addition designed by Siamak Hariri of Hariri Pontarini Architects. The complex includes multiple galleries, an education centre, a sculpture courtyard, café, gift shop, and framing department. It is considered an architectural landmark in the community. The MacLaren is dedicated to building a vibrant and creative community. It offers exhibitions, workshops, special events, and community activities that nurture artistic talent, inspire creativity, and stimulate intellectual curiosity. Its award-winning education department provides art appreciation and hands-on programs for all ages and abilities, including lectures, artist talks, art classes, camps, and workshops. The gallery also offers programs in schools and art-making activities for families. In 2011, the MacLaren reached over 56,000 people through its programs, including 26,000 children and youth. It presented 31 exhibitions and offered 710 arts education activities. Through its VanGo program, it delivered 427 studio programs to 8,985 students from Kindergarten to Grade 8 in Simcoe County. The MacLaren Art Centre is dedicated to building a creative future for the community. It offers art classes, tours, and workshops, fosters local talent, and provides unique experiences through its collection, exhibitions, and public art projects. It is a cornerstone of culture in Barrie and contributes to the social, intellectual, creative, and economic fabric of the community.