St. Marys encouraging residents to get artsy outdoors

This summer, picnicking in St. Marys will be prettier than ever!

Applications are now live for a new “picnic table program” in which 10 municipal picnic tables will be made available for creative painting, then positioned in picnic-friendly areas near the downtown to encourage take-out dining and safer future social gatherings.

“These unique tables will literally be bright spots around the downtown this summer,” says Kelly Deeks-Johnson, Tourism and Economic Development Manager for the Town of St. Marys. “People can pick up a delicious meal or snack from one of our local eateries and enjoy it outdoors, safely and creatively.”

The application form can be found at www.townofstmarys.com/picnicproject, and hard copies are available by contacting Town Hall at 519-284-2340 to arrange a pick-up time.

Artists should keep in mind that their masterpieces must present a positive image of St. Marys and cannot promote a specific cause or business. Applicants are encouraged to submit a design concept with their application.

Successful applicants will be contacted no later than Wednesday, May 12. The Public Works department will deliver the tables on Friday, May 14, and pick up completed tables on Friday, May 28. Applicants must ensure they have space on their property to temporarily store and work on a table. In keeping with the current Stay-at-Home order, only individual households can work on a picnic table.

Upon successful completion of tables, artists will receive an honorarium for their efforts and materials. The tables will be added to the free Driftscape tourism app for everyone to discover.

“This is a fun way for our residents to contribute to the beauty and uniqueness of our downtown area,” says Deeks-Johnson. “I’m looking forward to seeing how these tables complement our community.”

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For media inquiries:  

Andrea Macko, Events Coordinator
519-284-2340, ext. 249 | amacko@town.stmarys.on.ca