Spring Arts Exhibition Highlights Northwestern Ontario Craft, Sewing and Visual Arts
As final preparations come together for our Spring Arts Exhibition, running April 17–May 17, 2026, we’re excited to feature Dryden-based crafter Francine (Fran) Higgins. Known for her dedication to sewing and handmade craft, Fran brings a deeply personal and skillful approach to fabric-based work rooted in tradition and everyday creativity.
Fran Higgins is a Dryden, Ontario–based crafter whose lifelong passion for sewing began in childhood. Raised by her parents, Louis and Madeleine Toussaint, she grew up immersed in the landscapes of Northwestern Ontario—spending time outdoors, connecting with family, and developing a strong appreciation for patience, detail, and hands-on making.
Inspired early on by her mother, a teacher and talented maker, Fran learned to sew, cook, and create through observation and practice. From assisting with handmade clothing and costumes to spending hours at her mother’s sewing machine, these formative experiences shaped her creative path. After graduating in 1977, she received her own Kenmore sewing machine—a tool she continues to use today as part of her ongoing craft practice.
Although she has explored a wide range of crafts over the years, sewing remains central to Fran’s work. Fabric, texture, and the act of making continue to be her “happy place,” reflecting a quiet dedication to craft, tradition, and personal expression. Outside of her creative time, she enjoys walking her dog, spending time with her husband, and reading.
Visit the Spring Arts Exhibition in Melgund Township, Northwestern Ontario
Our seasonal exhibitions rotate annually between Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario, showcasing artists and creative practices from across the region. This year’s exhibition runs from April 17 to May 17, 2026 at the Dyment Recreation Hall, with gallery hours on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1–4 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Throughout the month, visitors can take part in a range of programming that highlights Northwestern Ontario arts, including:
- Live Creative Sessions: Open mic nights and collaborative music gatherings featuring local talent.
- Knowledge Sharing: Artist talks and hands-on workshops exploring craft, visual arts, and creative techniques.
- Community Conversations: Public discussions on art, environment, emerging technologies, and regional issues.
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