2024-2025
Contents.
Hear from our leaders as they reflect on an extraordinary year at Quest
Introduction
Explore the programming, exhibitions, events and community partnerships that shaped our year
Real life examples that demonstrate Quest’s enduring impact
An overview of Quest’s financial health
A summary of our newly-minted Strategic Plan and our direction forward
Celebrating the staff, board members, volunteers, donors and funders at the heart of Quest
01
With more than 5,000 visitors walking through our doors and thousands more reached through outreach programs, workshops, and partnerships, 2024–2025 reaffirmed what we already knew: art connects people in powerful ways. It builds bridges across generations, strengthens our community, and helps us see the world and each other differently.
Our highlights reflect that same spirit of connection, community and perspective.We celebrated the approval of a significant Ontario Trillium Foundation grant, which has enabled us to strengthen our programming and expand access.We also received support through the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program, which helped us to launch Gallery Gatherings, a new weekly art and social program specifically designed for individuals aged 55 and over.
Connected. Ready to See Things Differently.
This past year has been one of extraordinary creativity, collaboration, and connection at Quest Art School + Gallery. Everywhere you looked, from bustling classrooms and inspired exhibitions to meaningful community partnerships and engaging events, there was a renewed sense of energy and belonging.
Sentiments From Our Leadership
We amplified our burgeoning Petite Picassos children’s brand, producing professionally crafted videos and creative resources that reached new families and young artists.We hosted successful fundraising events such as Drive for Art and Art Slam:Wanderlust, both of which drew incredible community support and showcased the intersection of creativity and purpose.
Our collaborations flourished, strengthening Quest’s role as a creative connector across the region.This year, we deepened relationships with schools, health organizations, and cultural partners, bringing art into classrooms, wellness spaces, and community hubs.These efforts not only expanded access to creative experiences but also reaffirmed Quest’s impact as a catalyst for inclusion, education, and well-being through the arts.
“
remaininspired We
by the same curiosity and courage that have guided Quest for over three decades.
”
This year, Quest’s exhibitions reflected both depth and diversity, inviting audiences to experience art through many lenses From Sharon MacKinnon’s introspective “Outside Inside” and Peter Adams’ environmentally attuned “Rose Island Specimen Project,” to Kat Honey’s bold exploration of self and style in “Fashion: Reconstructed Identities,” our galleries came alive with fresh perspectives and creative energy. Group shows like "Not Lost But Found" and the collaborative double feature by Janine Wheeler and George Szabo celebrated connection, reinvention, and artistic dialogue At the same time, "Artists of Georgian Bay" and "Living in Cities" showcased the beauty and contrast of the world around us.
Looking ahead, we remain deeply grateful to our members, funders, partners, volunteers, staff, board and the countless individuals who make this organization possible. Quest will always be a work in progress — evolving, adapting, and re-imagining what art can mean to a community But without you, there would be no spark, no shared moments of discovery, and no collective heartbeat driving this creative place forward.Your belief in the power of art fuels everything we do, reminding us that creativity is not just something we practice, it’s something we live together
As we step into the new year, we do so with the same curiosity and courage that have defined Quest for three decades and continue to guide us; with eyes open to possibility, hearts open to connection, and a shared commitment to ensuring that art remains a driving force for inspiration, inclusion, and community wellbeing.
With
Gratitude, Cathy Tait, Chair of The Board Lawrence Sagar, Executive Director
02
Community Connection + Engagament Highlights
From bustling exhibitions and full classrooms to meaningful collaborations across North Simcoe, 2024–2025 was a year marked by imagination, participation, and growth; proof that there is a genuine appetite for the meaningful work we are doing.
5,000
Over 5,000 visitors stepped through our doors to experience art through classes, exhibitions, and community programming.
165
Our 165 members helped sustain this creative ecosystem.
2,100
Collectively, spending more than 2,100 hours appreciating art in our galleries; a powerful reflection of the inspiration and belonging Quest continues to foster
Creative Opportunities At Any Age
Through 32 adult programs and 331 children’s program enrollments, spanning PA Days, March Break, and Summer Camps, creativity flourished across generations Many young artists took their first creative steps here, while adults rediscovered the joy of making, experimenting, and connecting through art
Children’s classes this year included Drawing + Painting, Painting, Mixed Media, and Cartooning + Anime, each one designed to build confidence, imagination, and foundational art skills in an encouraging and inclusive environment
Adult participants embraced opportunities to grow and refine their craft through Painting and Drawing + Illustration courses, joining a community of learners eager to challenge themselves and share creative experiences These programs complemented a suite of unique Artist-Led Workshops that further allowed adults to develop their skillsets and learn directly from renowned artistic talents both locally and beyond
Workshops, Talks + Experiences
This year, Quest’s programming reached well beyond traditional classes. Our Art Talks series continued to draw enthusiastic audiences including Jackson’s War: A.Y. Jackson and the Birth of the Group of Seven, a captivating evening with author Douglas Hunter.
Artist-led workshops invited the community to explore, experiment, and connect through creativity, with highlights such as Open Studio (Printmaking), Creating a Garden Angel with Jean Miller, The Art of Play with Jeanette Luchese, Trees, Rocks and Water with Mark Hope, Relief Printing on T-Shirts with Bridget Puhacz, and Collage & Décollage with Kat Honey.
We also launched Gallery Gatherings, a new weekly art and social program for adults aged 55 and above, supported by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program. Hosted in the Upper Gallery, these sessions have quickly become a beloved fixture fostering community, creativity, and renewed artistic inspiration.
Between 2024 and 2025, 331 children participated in Quest’s youth programming, including PA Day, March Break, and Summer Art Camps These sessions nurtured creativity, confidence, and connection for young artists across Simcoe County, providing hands-on experiences that encouraged exploration and self-expression through art Participation levels remained strong, reflecting the growing reputation of Quest’s children’s programs as an inclusive and inspiring space for early artistic development.
Quest hosted 32 adult programs throughout the year, ranging from artist-led workshops and specialized art talks to Gallery Gatherings that brought community members together for shared learning and creative exchange. These opportunities provided local artists and enthusiasts alike with a chance to expand their skills, engage with peers, and connect more deeply with the regional arts community Attendance and engagement demonstrated a strong appetite for lifelong learning through art and conversation.
Exhibition Highlights
Not surprisingly, Quest’s gallery spaces buzzed with creativity this year, hosting a diverse range of exhibitions that reflected both individual vision and collective spirit. Each show offered visitors new perspectives, new conversations, and new reasons to fall in love with art all over again
SharonMacKinnon
OutsideInside
MacKinnoninvitedviewerstostep betweenworlds,exploringthe boundariesbetweeninternal reflectionandexternallandscape. Herworksbalancedquiet introspectionwithvivid,expressive form,remindingaudiencesofart’s powertoturnobservationinto emotion.
PeterAdams
TheRoseIslandSpecimenProject Throughkeenobservationand scientificcuriosity,Adamscaptured thehiddenbeautyofGeorgianBay’s RoseIsland Hisseriesbridgedart andenvironmentalawareness, showcasingthedeepconnection betweenartistandplace.
KatHoney
Fashion:ReconstructedIdentities Honey’sstriking(andmassive) mixed-mediaworksdissectedthe languageoffashion,exploringselfimage,identity,andtransformation. Theexhibitionchallengedviewersto rethinktherelationshipbetweenwhat wewearandwhoweare.
BrendanDuggan,PeterFyfe,DavidHill+JohnNotten NotLostButFound
Apowerfulgroupshowthatfusedinstallation,sculpture,and foundmaterials,NotLostButFoundhighlightedthebeauty ofrediscovery;turningdiscardedobjectsintovesselsof memory,imagination,andmeaning.
JanineWheeler+GeorgeSzabo DoubleFeatureExhibition
Thisjointexhibitionpairedtwodistinctivecreativevoicesin conversation.Wheeler’sintricatetextilesmetSzabo’s sculpturalworksinadialogueoftexture,material,and movement,showcasingcollaborationasanartforminitself.
ArtistsofGeorgianBay Exhibition&BookLaunch
Thisstunningexhibitioncelebratedthewildbeautyof Ontario’sGeorgianBaythroughtheeyesof41 contemporaryartists Fromwind-sculptedpinestoluminous sunsets,theirworkcapturedtheessenceofthisiconic landscape FeaturedinAndreaHillo’sbookofthesame name,theshowofferedvisitorsarareopportunitytomeet nineofthetalentedartistsbehindthesebreathtakingworks
MurrayVanHalem+RossSkoggard LivinginCities
VanHalemandSkoggardexploredthegeometry,grit,and rhythmofurbanlifethroughcontrastingartisticlenses. Together,theirworksexaminedthespaceswhere architecturemeetsemotion,andwherecityscapesbecome portraitsofhumanexperience.
Community Collaborations
Beyond our walls, Quest facilitated 12 standout community collaborations, strengthening relationships across education, healthcare, and cultural sectors.We partnered with the Georgian Bay Native Friendship Centre, Community Living Huronia (CLH), The Alzheimer Society, Georgian Bay District Secondary School (GBDSS), St.Theresa’s Catholic School, Chigamik Community Health Centre, Monsignor Castex Catholic School, and Mundy’s Bay Elementary School — where Quest reached over 65 students through handson art activities, and at Monsignor Castex, inspired the entire school of more than 230 students in a single day of creative exploration.
Throughout the year, Quest’s reach extended even further through specialized workshops and ongoing partnerships. A Simcoe County District School Board PD Day session engaged over 60 staff participants in a day of creativity and collaboration. At the same time, GBDSS Junior Bears visited the Gallery multiple times during the school year, introducing 50 to 60 children per visit to the joy of art-making. In the fall, 65 GBDSS art students participated in an on-site collage workshop inspired by Kat Honey’s “Fashion: Reconstructed Identities” exhibition —a powerful example of how Quest connects emerging artists to real-world creative experiences.
These collaborations brought art into classrooms, workplaces, and community hubs across North Simcoe, ensuring creativity remained accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for all.Together, they exemplify Quest’s mission to connect through art, empowering people of all ages and abilities to express, explore, and belong while removing barriers to participation.
From classrooms to community spaces, Quest inspired creativity in over 500 children, youth and adults across North Simcoe
Art Is LOVE
Located on the main floor of the Midland Cultural Centre, Quest’s Art Is Love studio served as a vibrant hub of creativity and community engagement. The space functioned as both a working studio and an interactive gallery a place where artists and visitors could witness art being created in real-time and connect directly with the creative process.
During 2024–2025, the Art Is Love residency program hosted six talented artists, including Jean Miller, Bridget Puhacz, Claire Ross, Lyss McBride, Sarah Hancock and Susan Dalrymple, each bringing a unique perspective and practice to the space. Throughout their residencies, these artists transformed the studio into a living, evolving exhibition, inviting the public to drop in, ask questions, and experience the often unseen side of artistic creation.
The studio also served as a bridge between professional artists and the broader community. Residents hosted demonstrations, open studios, and collaborative workshops, inspiring visitors to explore new mediums and appreciate the diversity of artistic expression within our region.
Although the Art Is Love space has since closed, its legacy endures. It remains a powerful example of Quest’s commitment to accessibility, collaboration, and connection a chapter that celebrated the creative process and reminded our community that art’s most tremendous impact occurs when it is shared.
Media, Public Relations + Visibility
Quest’s voice grew louder this year through a strategic focus on storytelling and public engagement. With features in a host of local media outlets, including Midland Today, CTV News Barrie, Orillia Matters, and Springwater News, a growing social media presence, and refreshed visual communications, Quest reached new audiences and amplified its impact.
These stories reinforced the message that Quest is not just a gallery or studio space It’s a living, breathing part of the community, connecting people through art, creativity and shared experience As our visibility grows, so too does the opportunity to reach new audiences, invite new participation and expand our impact.
“These stories reinforced the message that Quest is not just a gallery or studio space. It’s a living, breathing part of the community.”
Events That Energized
Art Slam: Wanderlust: The return of Art Slam brought an incredible wave of energy, with over 200 guests packing the Midland Cultural Centre to cheer on artists as they transformed blank canvases into works of art inspired by the theme 'Wanderlust'. Set to live music and audience excitement, the event embodied creativity in its purest form: spontaneous, expressive, and shared. The atmosphere was electric as spectators voted for their favourite pieces and watched stunning one-of-one works come alive in real time. Art Slam: Wanderlust reminded everyone that art isn’t just something you look at, it’s something you feel, and set the bar even higher for the event itself.
Drive for Art Gala: On May 25, 2024, Quest Art School + Gallery proudly brought back its signature fundraising event — the Drive for Art Gala — at the Midland Cultural Centre. Guests enjoyed an exclusive red-carpet evening celebrating creativity through fine art, live entertainment, exquisite cuisine, and signature cocktails. Featuring the work of 19 local artists, the venue was transformed into a stunning exhibition that showcased the region’s incredible talent and community spirit. The night’s highlight, the Drive for Art Live Auction, invited guests to experience Quest “in the fast lane,” with every dollar raised supporting programs that make the transformative power of art accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
Glow in the Dark Dance: On Friday, June 28, 2024, Quest turned down the lights and turned up the fun for an electrifying Glow in the Dark Dance! Designed for children ages 4 to 13, this end-of-school celebration filled the Gallery with laughter, movement, and colour. Kids enjoyed music, art activities, face painting, free snacks, and commemorative grad photos, all under the glow of black lights.
Quest Holiday Market: In December 2024, Quest debuted its very first Holiday Market, and the response was nothing short of remarkable. The Midland Cultural Centre transformed into a vibrant marketplace filled with handcrafted works, artisan gifts, and festive spirit. Visitors browsed one-of-akind creations from local makers while enjoying the warmth and camaraderie that have come to define Quest events. The market received such rave reviews from vendors and guests alike that it will return in 2025 as a new annual tradition.
Inspiring The Next Generation Of Artists
Introducing The Petie Picassos Video
Series
If our 2024-2025 year wasn’t exciting enough, we were also thrilled to launch our Petite Picassos Video Series, an imaginative collection of free art lessons designed to inspire preschool-aged children and their families.
Supported by an Ontario Trillium Foundation Seed Grant, this initiative brought Quest’s high-energy programming to life in an exciting new digital format, ensuring that art education could reach far beyond the Studio’s walls.
The videos, hosted by Lawrence Sagar and local artist, Holly Archer, invite young viewers to discover the fun of making through approachable, hands-on activities using simple, everyday materials.
Each episode blends art, storytelling, and play to spark curiosity and confidence in early learners, introducing fundamental concepts like colour, shape, texture, and selfexpression in a way that’s accessible, encouraging, and full of joy. The online series also reflects Quest’s commitment to accessibility, offering a free, communitydriven resource that brings art directly into homes and classrooms across Ontario.
The series has already become a beloved extension of Quest’s educational programming, laying the groundwork for continued digital learning initiatives and future collaborations with schools, families, and community organizations.
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Jean Miller
AJourneyofGrowth+ ConnectionAtQuest
What an incredible experience Quest Art has been. Over the years, this community has not only helped me grow as an artist but also encouraged me to embrace new challenges that have truly brought me to life.
My first involvement with Quest was as an instructor for Huronia Community Living’s day program, which welcomed participants into the gallery to create and connect through art. I quickly fell in love with the experience. By year’s end, we were hosting three classes each week for both Community Living and the Alzheimer Society. The Alzheimer’s group was exceptionally inspiring. Participants travelled all the way from Barrie to Midland, determined to be part of something creative and meaningful.
The following summer, I teamed up with Huronia Players Theatre Group to co-lead Quest’s Summer Theatre Camp. It was fun, rewarding, and—anyone who knows me will agree—a true challenge! With the support of a fantastic theatre coach, my partner, Lawrence, and I guided campers as they rehearsed and performed a full play for a packed audience after just two weeks.
hardworking artists and volunteers. Then came an incredible opportunity: being selected as an Art Is Love Artist-inResidence, funded through the Rotary Club. That residency was pure joy, and a chance to create, teach, and engage with visitors. It rekindled my creativity, offering the space to “get dirty again,” share my work, and exchange energy and ideas with others in real time.
Although I’ve since moved to Oakville, leaving both the theatre and Quest Art was one of the hardest parts of saying goodbye. I’ve already found new places to volunteer, but there’s nothing quite like Quest. For a community the size of Midland to have an art school and gallery that fosters such deep connection, creativity, and personal growth is truly rare. Quest Art is more than a gallery; it’s a place that nourishes the souls of everyone who walks through its doors, artists and visitors alike.
Art, Care + Confidence
Belle’s Summer at Quest
When April first reached out to Quest about enrolling her seven-yearold, Belle, in summer art camp, she was looking for something unique: A safe, understanding environment where her child could simply be a kid again.
Belle had recently been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, and April had struggled to find a camp that felt equipped to meet her daughter’s needs. Knowing Belle’s love of art, she hoped Quest could offer not only creativity and fun but peace of mind. Of course, we were deeply honoured that April would consider entrusting us with Belle’s care. We were determined to do everything possible to make the experience positive and safe for Belle and her family.
Before camp began, our team met with April and Belle to review her care plan, ensuring that every staff member was prepared to support her medical needs. Communication remained open throughout the week, giving April the confidence to gradually step back while Belle embraced the camp experience with enthusiasm.
By week’s end, Belle was thriving, painting, making friends, and smiling brightly at the end-of-week gallery show. For April, it was a moment of relief and joy.
“She has been through so much, and the last three days her spark has come back. The camp experience has completely lit her back up!”
Overjoyed, April immediately signed Belle up for another session, sharing, “I don’t even think I can express what it means to us. To be a normal kid, on top of her medical condition, is invaluable. I never thought I would be able to drop her off somewhere and be able to just focus on other things that needed to get done.”
Stories like Belle’s remind us what makes Quest special. This is a place where creativity and a little extra care meet, and every child is welcomed, supported, and celebrated.
04 Financial Overiew
Quest Art School + Gallery remains committed to strong fiscal stewardship and transparency in all areas of operation. Through careful planning, diversified funding, and the continued generosity of our supporters, we’ve maintained a stable financial position that enables us to deliver high-quality programming, exhibitions, and community initiatives. Each dollar invested in Quest directly supports creativity, learning, and connection, ensuring the arts continue to thrive in North Simcoe for years to come.
While total revenue decreased slightly year-over-year, Quest maintained a balanced position with a modest surplus of $1,876 — a reflection of sound financial management amid ongoing program growth.
2024-2025 Revenue
2024-2025 Expenses
Grant revenue remained Quest’s largest funding stream at 47% of total revenue, demonstrating ongoing success in securing institutional support. Notably, fundraising and events nearly doubled, rising from $45,737 to $76,529 — a clear sign of revitalized community engagement and event participation.
General Office Expenses totaled $187,527 in 2024–2025, down from $232,280 the previous year — a reflection of prudent cost management and operational efficiency. Wages and salaries accounted for 65% of total expenses, with rent and accounting each representing 11%. This balanced approach ensures resources remain focused on programming, community engagement, and long-term sustainability.
05 Strategic Priorities
Our Vision For The Future
Now in its 30th year, Quest Art School + Gallery continues to evolve as a cornerstone of creativity, connection, and community in North Simcoe. Guided by a refreshed strategic framework, we remain focused on strengthening our two core pillars: Our Art School and Gallery Spaces, while charting an exciting path forward.
Our priorities for the years ahead centre on deepening community engagement, growing the gallery’s reach and impact, and diversifying programming to inspire participation across all ages and abilities. Through expanded partnerships, renewed membership, and
Our 2025-2028 Strategic Priorities
To build on our success and ensure a sustainable future, Quest will focus on three key priorities over the coming years:
Community Engagement: Deepen relationships with local partners, members, and audiences through meaningful collaborations and social connections
Grow the Gallery: Increase visibility, attendance, and earned revenue by enhancing the visitor experience and
Our Board
Cathy Tait: Chair of The Board
Catherine Cowley: Vice Chair
Melanie Robitaille: Secretary
Andrew Rumball: Treasurer
Adam Podolski: Director
Rodrigo Moreno: Director
Ginette Pelletier: Director
Peggy Breckenridge: Ex-Officio
Quest Art School + Gallery is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors whose leadership, vision, and commitment help shape the organization’s direction and success Together, they provide strategic oversight, champion the arts in our community, and ensure that Quest continues to thrive as a place of creativity, connection, and lifelong learning
This year, Quest Art School + Gallery honours the memory of Catherine Cowley, our beloved Vice Chair and dear friend.
Catherine’s passion for the arts, steady leadership, and genuine kindness made a lasting impact on our organization and community.
Her thoughtful guidance and unwavering support continue to inspire us, and her legacy lives on in the creativity and connection she helped nurture.
She will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.
Janet Phillips
The Lights That Lead Us
Introducing The Luminary Awards
Every community has its lights—the people who quietly, steadily make things brighter for everyone around them.
The Luminary Legacy Award celebrates a long-time volunteer whose dedication to the arts has gone far beyond service. It recognizes a passion that has built bridges, inspired others, and reminded us that art is not just
With Gratitude
WeCouldn’tDoItWithoutYou
Quest Art School + Gallery extends sincere thanks to the volunteers, sponsors, and funders who make our work possible. Your time, creativity, and generosity fuel every aspect of what we do.
Together, you embody the spirit of Quest: generous, passionate, and committed to the belief that art has the power to connect and transform.
In recognition of this shared dedication, a permanent tribute to our Volunteers, Sponsors, and Donors will be installed at Quest in the coming year as a lasting reminder that our success is built on the collective care and creativity of our community.
With appreciation, we thank our 2024–2025 Sponsors and Funders:
Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF)
New Horizons for Seniors, Government of Canada
Delta Bingo and Gaming
Rotary Club of Midland
Huronia Community Foundation (HCF)
Georgian Bay Gals Who Give
Larmand Group Private Wealth Management
The Town of Midland
Gilkon Construction
Young Canada Works
Experience Simcoe
The Township of Tiny F.K. Morrow Foundation
Your ongoing support enables Quest to continue growing, connecting, and inspiring through the transformative power of art.
