​Quirky, colourful, upcycled bird houses to be featured at Bruce County Museum

The Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre has announced the opening of its newest exhibit, “For the Birds: Upcycled Bird Palaces,” a whimsical showcase of one-of-a-kind birdhouses created by 81-year-old folk artist Graeme Chalmers.

The opening will take place Saturday, Dec. 14, from 2-4 p.m. Guests are invited to fly on over to the museum for a first chance to see the exhibit and enjoy a casual afternoon of complimentary light refreshments and a cash bar. This free event is open to all, with RSVPs encouraged.

Chalmers, an artist with a lifelong passion for folk art, transforms ordinary thrift store finds into extraordinary birdhouses that are colourful, quirky, and full of charm. By upcycling discarded items, such as chess pieces, Scrabble tiles, toy wheels, and wooden figurines, he breathes new life into forgotten treasures, creating abodes fit for the most discerning of feathered friends.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this joyful exhibit and celebrate the beauty of upcycled art. The exhibit will run through April 30, 2025.

For full details on the exhibit and to RSVP for the exhibit opening, visit brucemuseum.ca.

Dr. Graeme Chalmers has a distinguished career as an art educator. Born in Aotearoa/New Zealand, he graduated in fine arts from the University of Auckland, attended teachers’ college, and taught art in Papakura, South Auckland, before a Fulbright award made it possible to study art education in the United States.

He came to Canada in 1972, first to Sir George Williams (now Concordia) University in Montreal. Thirty-three years at the University of British Columbia followed, along with many national and international awards. A list of his many publications can be found at www.millieandgraeme.ca.

Now, Chalmers enjoys time in his studio workshop, creating and painting the colourful architectural fantasies you see in this exhibition.