Kempenfest BAC Tent – Call to Artists

Barrie Art Club / Kempenfest 2026
(MEMBERS ONLY)

Friday, July 31 – Monday, August 3

Kempenfest is an outdoor event located along Kempenfelt Bay, downtown Barrie. It is one of the largest outdoor arts and crafts festivals in North America and draws more than 200,000 visitors each year – and they’re predicting another record year in 2026!

You’re invited to submit your original art to be displayed in our BAC tent along Artisan Alley during Kempenfest. This is exclusive to BAC members and an awesome opportunity to exhibit your work!

– Submissions begin July 20 until noon July 25.
– Bring up to three paintings to BAC – 11 King St., Barrie.
– Selection begins July 27 and artists will be notified by July 29 if not accepted.
– Fees – $15 per painting or $30 for 3 paintings – payable with your submission and nonrefundable.
– BAC will collect 20% commission for any art sold at this exhibition.

RULES for paintings: Please read carefully to ensure your paintings will be accepted.

– Size is a maximum of 20” on the longest side, including frame.
– All artwork must be ready to hang (wires are required).
– No glass – for safety and consistency we recommend plexiglass if framing is needed.
– LABEL on white business card size with black text including title, artist, medium and price.
– Artwork must be for sale.

Please PRINT and complete the BAC Kempenfest art submission form’26 and return to BAC along with your paintings.

***GREETING CARDS WILL BE SOLD***

– Submit up to 20 greeting cards, with envelopes cello wrapped individually.
– $10.00 entry fee
– ***BAC will not collect commission from the sale of greeting cards***
– All cards will be priced @ $5.00 each

VOLUNTEERING FOR THE BAC TENT

Tent volunteers, please contact Randy Hammond at randy.j.hammond01@gmail.com for your preferred time at the event. Each 4-hour shift will require 3 people.

– Water and snacks will be supplied
– Stools/chair will be supplied
– Cash, credit card and etransfers will be accepted for payment – we will be using BAC Square for payments.
– Volunteers may bring up to 3 additional paintings to display during your shift – “Painting Rules” apply.

Tent hours:
Saturday – Monday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
(First shift 10 am – 2 pm, Second shift 2 pm – 6 pm)

Barrie Art Club (BAC) is not-for-profit, member driven and fully dependent on the generous support of volunteers.

We couldn’t do any of this without you!

BAC Kempenfest Committee
Barrie Art Club

Kempenfest Photo from 1971