Northern Ontario Artist Leanne Nicholson Brings Nature-Based Art to Melgund Exhibition
The 2026 Spring Arts Exhibition at the Dyment Recreation Hall in Melgund Township continues to highlight the strength of Northwestern Ontario arts with a compelling presentation of work by Borups Corners artist Leanne Nicholson. Known for her distinctive use of natural materials and strong connection to place, Nicholson’s work offers a powerful contribution to this year’s regional exhibition.
Raised in Red Lake and deeply connected to the landscapes of Northwestern Ontario, Nicholson draws on a lifetime of experience on the land. Early years spent at her family’s cabin on McKenzie Island helped shape a creative perspective grounded in observation, respect, and an ongoing relationship with the natural world.
Her artistic practice centers on mixed media and nature-based materials, incorporating elements such as antlers, bones, and skulls alongside painted imagery. These works move beyond traditional visual art, positioning themselves within a broader Northern Ontario arts context that values land-based knowledge, sustainability, and cultural continuity. Each piece reflects careful intention, transforming found materials into works that emphasize presence, memory, and connection.
Nicholson’s process involves spending extended time outdoors, where she gathers materials she considers offerings from the land. This approach situates her work within a growing movement of Northwestern Ontario artists who are redefining contemporary practice through direct engagement with their environment.
Alongside its material focus, her work carries a strong emotional dimension. Art has served as a meaningful outlet for personal expression, allowing Nicholson to navigate complex experiences and translate them into visual form. This depth resonates throughout her work, creating pieces that invite reflection and connection within the gallery space.
As part of the Spring Arts Exhibition, Nicholson’s work reinforces the importance of regional voices in shaping the future of Northern Ontario arts. Her contribution highlights the intersection of environment, experience, and creative practice—offering visitors a distinctive and memorable perspective.
About the Exhibition
The Spring Arts Exhibition runs until May 20, 2026 at the Dyment Recreation Hall in Melgund Township, Northwestern Ontario. Gallery hours are Mondays and Wednesdays from 1–4 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to noon.
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