Knock knock! Peterborough Opens the Door to Art
The festival, which kicked off on Thursday, September 26, is all about ‘opening doors’ to fresh perspectives. At its heart, this creative celebration invites everyone to get up close and personal with different art forms.
Locals turn Doors into Masterpieces
Artists, schools, community groups, and anyone who wanted to take up the challenge to re-imagine old doors as canvases have resulted in an eclectic mix of creations. From the powerful message invoked by the Rotary Club’s door in support of domestic violence to the whimsical fairy garden door Peterborough locals have been busy painting, sculpting, and collaging, in what Amee hopes will be the first of many community art collaborations of this scale.
The transformed doors, now ready to be discovered have popped up in the town square, main street and shop windows.
To discover them all, the Door Trail – available both physically and virtually – gives locals and visitors a chance to explore the town, hunt for doors and join in on events, workshops, and activities. With around 35 doors waiting to be found, each one brings its own unique message, design, and energy to the mix.
You can even scan the QR code next to any door for the inside scoop on the artist and the story behind their creation. It’s a great way to connect with the art and the artists, wherever you’re from.
Get creative with hands-on workshops
One of the highlights of this festival is that it’s not just about standing back and admiring the art – it’s about diving in and letting your inner artist run wild. An extensive workshop program led by local artists offers everything from black-smithing to belly dancing, printmaking, and performance poetry, giving all ages the chance to “step through the door” and try something new.
And during the school holidays, the Open Doors Festival will have a special focus on hands-on fun for the kids. From kite-making, paper-making, cooking, basket weaving, printing their own Christmas cards, and lantern crafting, there’s something for every little creative mind.
Amee’s vision is simple: art is for everyone. Whether you’re taking a trip on the Door Trail, painting, dancing, or whipping up chocolates, this festival is all about “opening doors” to new ideas, fresh perspectives, and a whole lot of fun.
Open Doors Festival
Where: Peterborough
When: September 26 – October 27
For more info, workshop bookings and to keep an eye out for the virtual tour: click here.
