Curious about local art? We are too!

When it comes to the arts, Nova Scotia is spoiled for talent, and we're pleased to feature local art in many of our Library spaces.

From The Sunroom at Central Library to art displayed in our branches, we want to give local artists space to connect with our community and share their vision.

Current exhibits

The Sunroom at Central Library

On display May 5 - June 15, 2024

Collection: H by Colin Chen

Colin, who immigrated to Halifax in 2009, has a beautiful, vibrant art style that represents contemporary Chinese folk art. His artwork often draws from his hometown in Zhejiang province on the East China Sea, and people and experiences from his time in Nova Scotia.

In his childhood, Colin never dreamed he’d one day be an artist. "I wanted to go to art school, but when I was growing up, my family was very poor," he says. Instead, he first learned how to paint by practicing on his own.

Today, he works as a hairstylist, and has honed his skills by taking online painting lessons from an artist in his home country. He has raised more than $30,500 through an art auction fundraiser, with 100% of the proceeds going towards heartfelt community causes. In November 2021, Colin auctioned off 52 of his original paintings to help fund the QEII’s orthopaedic surgical robot, also sharing the funds raised with the QEII Thyroid Cancer Fund and the Chester Art Centre.

Learn more about the exhibit., opens a new window

Alderney Gate Public Library

Information on next display coming soon.

Cole Harbour Public Library

On display April through June 2024

Art by Kathy Snell

"I am a Dartmouth Based artist who has been painting for 20 years. I began by painting Decorative Tole, but soon discovered watercolours. I have since branched out to other mediums, including acrylics, pastels and finally oils. Inspiration comes from my surroundings and I usually paint from photos I have taken myself. I love street scenes, landscapes, people, and flowers. I have won several first and second-place ribbons for my watercolours at the East Hants Art Show."

Art by Joel Fraser

"My painting journey began in New Glasgow, going to Miss MacAskill’s art studio during elementary, junior, and senior high school, working first in pastels and then oils. I painted occasionally while attending Teacher’s College, and teaching in Northern Quebec."

"When I returned to Nova Scotia, I painted with Colleen Fenwick and then with Bev Hubley for several years. During this time I also explored acrylics, doing decorative tile painting with Diane Hendrickson. Work got in the way, and I didn’t oil paint for several years. My goal when I retired from teaching was to get back into painting, which I am happy to say has happened by working in oils and exploring watercolours."

"I am a member of the Dartmouth Visual Arts Society, and enjoy attending weekly Studio Groups and various workshops. I have participated in several DVAS art shows at the Craig Gallery."

J.D. Shatford Memorial Public Library

Information on next display coming soon.

Keshen Goodman Public Library

Information on next display coming soon.

Musquodoboit Harbour Public Library

On display May 2024

Photography by Larah Metelková

Local Artist and Photographer of all things human, nature and architectural. The principals of light and colour are the backbone to many an artist and to know them is to bend them. Capturing beauty—whatever that may be, understanding the world around us, our relationships within it and our connections. Being an artist is to explore and attune ones self—becoming finely honed in your area of study but remaining open to new knowledge, experience and opportunity.  

"I love a chat, a silent moment and a good morning coffee, making art and taking photographs of the human connection is my passion."

Sackville Public Library

Information on next display coming soon.

Tantallon Public Library

On display May 2024

Art by Katheryn Boutilier

Kathy is a retired educator and community volunteer who is a resident of Indian Harbour. She has witnessed the decline of the inshore fishery, one of the last vestiges of the independent spirit which so long connected many Bay communities to the sea. Her work is an exploration of a newfound talent which combines art and her interest in local history. 

"My art reflects coastal scenes and homesteads in the St. Margaret’s Bay area which were inspired by archival and personal photograph collections. It depicts coves and fish houses which were the lifeblood of another century. The architecture of earlier homes reflects an attention to detail and craftsmanship that is less evident in modern homes. The art is a tribute to the hard working people who made our communities what they are today."

Woodlawn Public Library

Information on next display coming soon.