Wild Canada in 3D
A Children's Wildlife Sculpture Workshop
Sunday, September 20
12:00pm - 4:00pm
Downtown Branch
Gathering PlaceLed by local Artist Carolyn M. Boyd, Wild Canada in 3D is a free, hands-on visual arts activity designed primarily for children and families (ages 5-12) as part of Culture Days Barrie 2026.
In Wild Canada in 3D, participants will create their own small three-dimensional Canadian wildlife sculpture to take home. Children can choose from a selection of iconic Canadian animals, The animal forms have been specially designed by Carolyn and pre-cut from cardboard using Cricut technology. Participants will transform these simple shapes into colourful works of art using acrylic paint, paint markers, pencil crayons, and other creative materials. Children may choose to create an animal inspired by its natural colours and markings, or let their imaginations take over and invent something completely unique and along the way, Carolyn will share interesting facts about Canadian wildlife, their habitats, and their importance within Canada’s natural environment.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Explore colour, pattern, and texture
- Learn basic sculpture and design concepts
- Experiment with painting and surface decoration
- Develop creative problem-solving skills
- Express their own artistic ideas
- Learn about Canadian wildlife and habitats
- Create a finished artwork they can proudly take home
Art for the Whole Family
The workshop is designed primarily for children ages 5–12, but youth, teens, adults, seniors, parents, grandparents, and caregivers are all welcome to participate.
No previous art experience is necessary.
Younger children can focus on painting and decorating their animals, while older children and adults can explore more detailed patterns, textures, painting techniques, and creative approaches. The goal is to create an experience where families can make art together, learn something new, and celebrate Canada’s natural heritage through creativity.
All materials will be provided free of charge, including pre-cut cardboard animal sculptures, acrylic paints, paint markers, brushes, and other supplies
This September, the Barrie Public Library is pleased to welcome Barrie-area artist Carolyn M. Boyd for Wild Canada in 3D, a free, hands-on art experience celebrating Culture Days Barrie 2026.
Join local artist Carolyn M. Boyd on September 20 from 12–4 PM for a creative afternoon where children and families can explore Canadian wildlife through painting, sculpture, colour, and imagination.
About Carolyn M. Boyd
Carolyn M. Boyd is an award-winning Canadian landscape artist whose work is inspired by the beauty of Ontario’s natural world. From the shores of Kempenfelt Bay and Georgian Bay to the forests and lakes of Muskoka and beyond, her colourful paintings celebrate Canada’s landscapes, wildlife, water, changing seasons, and the stories found within the places around us.
Art has been part of Carolyn’s life since childhood. Growing up painting alongside her mother, a landscape artist, Carolyn developed an appreciation for observing nature closely and discovering the unique character of each place. Today, those experiences continue to influence both her artwork and her approach to teaching.
Carolyn believes that art gives children an opportunity to explore, experiment, express themselves, and discover their own unique way of seeing the world. She creates welcoming art experiences where there is no “right” way to be creative. Instead, children are encouraged to use their imagination, make their own choices, and enjoy the creative process.
Downtown Branch
Our Downtown Branch is centrally located in the Downtown core at the corner of Worsley and Owen Streets. The building and facilities are fully accessible. Enjoy a beverage or a small snack from our Café located inside the lobby, use our complimentary wifi, experiment with technology and maker tools, or soak up the sun on our Rooftop Reading Garden.