Artists Co-op

The Owen Sound Artists' Co-op, featuring 45 local artists, is an inviting place to shop, lunch and linger in the heart of downtown Owen Sound.

Located in the historic McKay building on 2^nd Avenue East, a former dry goods store with a money rail, it has been a mecca for artists and art lovers for more than two decades.

Visitors and locals are drawn to the uniqueness of the space and the vast array of quality art and crafts by co-op members, including pottery, woodworking, jewelry, glass, textiles and sculpture, along with fine art in many mediums, from painting and collage to photography and printmaking. There is always an artist on duty when you visit, and most members are able to speak eloquently about their colleagues' work. Some have been involved for more than 20 years.

Birgits Bakery Cafe, tucked in the back, has become a popular spot for lunch and socializing. Birgit Wright, a pastry chef and potter, is known for her savory pies and sweet treats. This may be one of the few places in Ontario where you can be served a hot drink in a hand-made, one of a kind, kiln-fired mug.

The Artists' Co-op is run by a not-for-profit volunteer group. It is open seven days a week, year-round.