Every summer, there's one delivery I look forward to more than any other.

It's the day I load the truck with a fresh collection of paintings and head to The Opinicon Gallery.

I'm excited to share that my 2026 collection is now on display, and I hope you'll have the opportunity to visit if you're exploring the Rideau this summer.

For me, exhibiting at The Opinicon has become an annual tradition. It's one of those places that feels woven into the history of the Rideau Lakes. Whether you're arriving by road or by boat, it's a destination that captures everything people love about spending time here.

This year's collection continues my exploration of the Rideau—windswept pines growing from granite shorelines, quiet bays, island cabins, and the peaceful moments that make this landscape so inspiring. Every painting begins with time spent exploring these waterways, camera in hand, waiting for that scene that simply feels right.

One of the things I'm especially excited about this year is that my work can now be found in three locations throughout The Opinicon.

The Ice Cream Shop Gallery
The Main Building Gallery
The newly expanded Second Floor Gallery

If you find yourself at Chaffey's Lock this summer, I hope you'll stop by The Opinicon. Whether you've come by car, by boat, or you're spending time at a nearby cottage, take a few minutes to wander through the galleries. This year, you'll find my paintings in the Ice Cream Shop, the Main Building, and now in the newly expanded Second Floor Gallery. If you're not sure where to start, just ask. The staff are wonderful and will be happy to point you in the right direction.

One of the nicest parts of exhibiting so close to my studio is that I'm usually not very far away. If I'm not at The Opinicon, there's a good chance I'm down the road painting on my dock, working in the studio, or out exploring the Rideau looking for my next painting.

If you have a question about one of the paintings, would like to hear the story behind it, or you're thinking about adding one to your home, don't hesitate to reach out. If I'm available, I'd be more than happy to meet you at The Opinicon and walk through the collection with you. Those conversations are one of my favourite parts of being an artist.

I always enjoy seeing where my paintings end up. Some find homes with first-time collectors, while others are added to collections that have been growing for years. My hope is always the same—that a painting reminds someone of a favourite shoreline, a family cottage, or a quiet afternoon on the water.

I hope you'll stop by this summer. I'd love to hear what part of the Rideau inspires you.
See you soon - Andrew

Visit The Opinicon Gallery

The Opinicon
1697 Chaffey's Lock Road
Elgin, Ontario K0G 1E0

Website: https://www.opinicon.com

You can also browse my latest available work at:

www.andrewdmilneart.com

P.S. Keep an eye on your inbox. We'll be announcing a Meet the Artist event at The Opinicon later this summer. I'd love the opportunity to meet you in person, share a few stories behind the paintings, and hear about your own favourite places on the Rideau.