Banfield Art Crawl invites visitors to wander and discover

During the 2025 Banfield Art Crawl, Maeve Van Wylie and her family - Grace Van Wylie, Marcia Van Wylie and Derek Wylie, purchase a painted box from artist Jennifer Adams who specializes in paintings, painted boxes, paddles and mirrors.

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

Art lovers are being invited to slow down, stroll the streets of one of Paris’ most charming neighbourhoods and discover one-of-a-kind treasures during the fourth annual Banfield Art Crawl on May 23.

The annual one-day event, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., transforms the Banfield neighbourhood into an open-air gallery, featuring artists and makers showcasing their work from front lawns, porches, driveways and homes throughout the community. What began in 2023 as an idea among three local artists has quickly grown into one of Paris’ most unique grassroots arts events. After initially canvassing the neighbourhood with flyers, organizers discovered more than 30 local creatives eager to participate. This year’s crawl features 43 artists and makers, including returning favourites and several new participants.

Organizers said the event is about much more than art sales. It’s about connection, community and celebrating creativity close to home.

“This is an event that has grown directly from living, working and playing in Paris for over a decade now,” said artist Christa Potter. “We’re bringing together the people from all edges of this bustling town together to celebrate who we are as a community and continue to find meaning in connection.”  Visitors can expect a wide range of artistic mediums, from paintings and photography to stained glass, textiles, clay work, wool art, leather goods and more.

Jennifer Budd, who will be showcasing felted “woolscapes,” watercolours and oil paintings inspired by her homeland of Scotland, said the diversity of artists is part of what makes the crawl so appealing.

“A diverse and wide range of mediums used by makers makes for a more interesting experience for our visitors,” Budd said. “We have makers using clay, cloth, leather, wool, thread, paint, photography, stained glass, gourds, pinecones, paper, wire, ink, silk and lino and more.” 

The crawl has continued to evolve each year. Organizers have launched a new website, making it easier for visitors to explore participating artists, preview artwork and map out their route through the neighbourhood.  Beyond the art itself, organizers hope residents take time to enjoy the atmosphere of the Banfield neighbourhood, known for its historic homes, mature trees and welcoming sense of community.

“The BAC provides an opportunity for people to come together and connect through art,” Potter said. “Art is a great host — it provides a conversation for people who might not otherwise have had anything to say to each other.” 

Budd echoed those sentiments, describing creativity as “a connector in a fractured world.”

“Building community is key to healthy relationships,” she said. “This event invites in-person conversations, appreciation of makers’ work and an opportunity to grow relationships and community.” 

This year’s event will also include community gathering spots throughout the day. Visitors can stop by Jury Street Park for hot dogs and treats from the “What’s the Scoop?” ice cream truck, while coffee by donation will be available from 10 a.m. to noon at 35 Jane St. 

Organizers noted that 33 Alexander Ave. has withdrawn from this year’s crawl lineup. The Banfield Art Crawl is a rain-or-shine event and organizers encourage residents to get outside, enjoy the spring weather, support local artists and perhaps discover a special handmade piece to take home.