Welcome to Amherst Island
Amherst Island is a close-knit community located at the east end of Lake Ontario, 15 minutes west of Kingston in Loyalist Township (part of Lennox and Addington County). Whether you’re a long-time resident, newcomer, or just visiting, we’re delighted to have you here.
Amherst Island is a place where natural beauty meets rich history, and where neighbours come together to create a vibrant and supportive community. This website is designed to be your go-to resource for all things Amherst Island, offering a wealth of information and services tailored to the needs of visitors and residents.
Explore the site to learn more about the unique charm of Amherst Island, discover ways to get involved, and access the resources you need. We are proud of our island and the strong community spirit that defines us, and we invite you to dive in and experience all that Amherst Island has to offer.
This page is offered and maintained by the Amherst Island Community Alliance.
Points of Interest Map
Click on any of the points of interest on the map above to learn more about the business or location it represents. The map above is broken down into businesses, geographic areas of interest, etc. The map is printable through Google Maps.
The Festive Holiday Auction ends this evening at 7pm! Last chance to bid on this very special listing - a full-day birding tour on Amherst Island with PEPtBO`s THREE professional banders: Owl bander Ketha Gillespie, Station Manager Ashley Jensen and Assistant Bander-in-Charge Andrew Brown.
Like Prince Edward Point, Amherst Island is a globally significant Important Bird Area and a well-known site for observing concentrations of wintering hawks and owls. If you`re lucky, you (and up to 3 guests) can find five or more species of owls in a single day! You can expect to walk/hike, use a scope to view birds, and learn more than you could ever imagine from these three wonderful humans. Ethical and responsible owl-watching guidelines are always observed. An unforgettable day for you and your family and/or friends. 🦉
To place your bid or browse the auction listings, please see link in bio.
#BirdingTour #AmherstIsland #OwlWatching #PEPtBO #BirdingAdventures #NatureAuction #WildlifeExperience #ImportantBirdArea #BirdWatching #EcoTourism
Shop Update! We have just loaded 10 new pieces in the Matthew Mulholland category on our website. Order online and pick up at the gallery this weekend. Every Chawan Tea Bowl and mug is priced at $45, making them wonderful gifts for the under $50 gift budget.
"I have been working in ceramics for over 20 years, studying at the University of Oregon. While there I was in charge of the schools raku program and focused my time on learning atmospheric firing. I have tried salt, soda and have fired multiple times in the school`s anagama (dragon) kiln, and was part of the team that built the school`s noborigama (climbing) kiln.
I am still very heavily influenced by atmospheric firing and the approach to mark making on my pieces in the raw (greenware) stage, incorporating a lot of what I learned then.
I have done a few residences, most recently in Cape Cod with Harry Holl.
Upon moving to Canada I returned to studies to become an art teacher and after completing my degree I was the head of ceramic tile production at Panache Ceramic and Glass in Edmonton, Alberta.
Since moving to the Montreal area I have worked entirely in the mid-firing range (cone 6) in oxidation. This has been a big transition for me, but luckily much of the time I spent in Alberta prepared me for firing in oxidation.
I continue to try to achieve atmospheric effect. This is done in several ways. firstly, the layering of a number of different glazes and also through the application method: pouring, dipping, brushwork, and more and more using a spray gun.
My glazes are non-toxic. I also try to use glazes that are non-toxic in their raw form, to reduce their environmental impact.
I often build something up to then tear it down, to gain a level of mastery of the material to then break the rules with clay that starts with being able to throw or build most traditional forms. I take that knowledge and then turn it around to make work that is contrary.
I want to let the clay be clay, without sacrificing its function. I try to make work that will elevate the rituals of life that they are meant to serve."
#amherstisland #amherstislandartgallery #contemporaryceramics #finecraft #giftsunder50
We are proud to represent ceramicist laurenblakeyceramics in our gallery and have seventeen of her sculptural wall tiles available for purchase this holiday season. Please feel free to place your orders on our website, however, we are not shipping at this time. You can pick up your pieces at the gallery on Saturdays or Sundays between 1-4pm. Please let us know if you would like your pieces gift wrapped and we will happily do that for you with our compliments. Here is what Blakey has to say about her original and distinctive work: “I do not define my work by typical standards of sculpture or functionality. Rather, it is a genre that explores the materiality and sensuality of my particular media, clay, containing a powerful recitation of nature and biology.
The inspiration for my work comes from the natural world, specifically geological formations and rock-like textures. I am particularly interested in the surfaces of moss, lichens and algae; surfaces that have become blemished and worn over time, exposing sediment, the past and growth.
I see my current work as particularized studies, dug up from the earth or sea. The objects feel like unearthed relics or remains; the surviving traces that speak of our past.” – L.Blakey. #giftideas #wallart #ceramics #amherstisland #amherstislandartgallery #perfectgift
Hey friends of Instagram... it is that time of year for the PEPtBO festive online auction, and we are doing an Amherst tour with the banders. If you want to bid
www.32auctions.com/PEPtBO24
There are so many great things to bid on, and of course, this fun outing with amj_chrysoptera and plover.king for a day of birding enjoying the island.
Place a bid $!!!
#peptbo #birds # birdbanding # owls #amherstisland #nonprofitorganization #winterbirds #winterbirding #onlineauction #thecounty #pec #fallmigration #birdingfun #birdingforeveryone
Big news! My first podcast interview is available to listen to. I am featured on "Studio Stories" Season 2, episode 1 (available on apple podcasts - links will be available on my website under "news" - when I get a chance to toss it up there...and figure out how to do that 🤣). I was interviewed by the lovely lynnlornaygkhomes . Her podcasts are broadcast on Amherst Island radio amherstislandradio , and can be heard through searching the archives on the website.
It was a wonderful interview. I really enjoyed chatting with Lynn and sharing my story. I talk about how I got started with my art career in my 40`s, my current work, the space I create in (a mix of my home studio and the amazing shared studio space of the_hive_bath ) my materials of choice (spoiler - I mention my favourite brand of acrylic paint that is also local - Tri Art Acrylics - triart.mfg ) my artist inspiration gordonharrisongallery (Thank you Gordon!) and my next exciting art workshop - the Snowshoe Hike and Paint Workshop at frontenacpp
Tune in and enjoy 😀.
#lisaontheloose #lisaleskienartist #thehivebath #bathontario #artistontheloose #colorfulliving #studiostories #amherstisland #amherstislandradio #artiststory #frontenacprovincialpark #frontenac #infrontenac #snowshoe #hikeandpaint
The Festive Holiday Auction starts in 1 week. We can`t wait to share all of the auction listings but while you are waiting, here`s a sneak peek at a few.
First up is a $100 gift certificate to PEC`s Dropseed Native Plant Nursery. Specializing in Native Plants from the Great Lakes Region, and conveniently located just outside Picton, dropseed.pec has been open to the public since May 2024. Native plants offer numerous benefits such as low maintenance, drought resistance, and support for local wildlife. They are well-adapted to our local climate and soil, ensuring that your garden thrives with minimal intervention. Whether you`re looking to create a vibrant wildflower meadow, a serene woodland garden, a rain garden or a lush backyard haven, the knowledgeable staff at Dropseed can help you find a perfect solution to enhance your outdoor space while promoting ecological balance.
Join PEPtBO`s THREE banders birdingwithketha plover.king amj_chrysoptera for a full-day birding tour of Amherst Island. Like Prince Edward Point, Amherst Island is a globally significant Important Bird Area and a well-known site for observing concentrations of wintering hawks and owls. If you`re lucky, you can find five or more species of owls in a single day! You can expect to walk/hike, use a scope to view birds, and learn more than you could ever imagine from these wonderful humans. Ethical and responsible owl-watching guidelines are always observed. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Privately owned Jackson`s Falls is a County phenomenon. Available to the public only once a year, the owner is willing to provide private access to a group of up to six people during the spectacular spring run (April/May). She will give you a guided tour complete with history and ecology, or you can wander and picnic on your own. Or both! This incredibly special opportunity has been donated by Brenda MacKneson.
#HolidayAuction #NativePlants #PictonOntario #BirdingTour #AmherstIsland #OutdoorExperience #NatureLovers #FestiveHolidayAuction
Let Your Windows Shine with mondaywindowcleaners !
Transform your storefront with our affordable Commercial Packages:
Exterior Cleaning: $29.99
Interior Cleaning: $29.99
Frame, Sill, & Detailing: INCLUDED
Schedule restrictions apply - reach out to us today!
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Hello! Canada Post’s strike is terrible timing for shipping gifts, so why not shop in person at our gallery this weekend! We have something for every budget, and would love to help you find meaningful gifts that are uniquely handcrafted, such as this new pendant created by glass artist darlenemartinstuart. We are open Saturday and Sunday, 1-4pm both days. #amherstisland #holidaygifts #handmade #amherstislandartgallery #shoplocal #shopsmall #gift #flamework #glass
✨Time for our weekly Museum Gift Shop highlight!✨
Amherst Island ceramic artist, Mayo Underwood is self-taught and learned how to learn throw a pot in her kitchen using a neighbour`s wheel when her kids were young. To keep her kitchen clean, she tried to use almost no water and developed her own way of `throwing dry`. This led to Mayo demonstrating and teaching this uncommon technique around Canada and the US.
🍶Mayo has a studio on the Island called Mayo`s Claypen (reflecting her love of playing with clay) and uses different colour porcelains and stonewares. She is also one of the potters at Weasel & Easel. And now, the Museum Gift Shop is lucky to add some of Mayo`s beautiful mugs to our shelves, including those featuring a true blue colour that she developed!
🛍Mugs range from $20-$25/each. Shop in-person during regular Museum hours, Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm (or during our upcoming Friday Night Lights programs!).
#museumson #lennoxandaddington #supportlocalartists #mayounderwood #amherstisland #napanee #kingston #ygk #belleville #discoveron #giftshop #ceramics
The holiday urn by the gallery door this year is complete! Everything was foraged from the property: juniper, dogwood and fennel seed heads. I’ve never seen so many berries on our junipers, ever. #amherstisland #amherstislandmade #amherstislandartgallery #holidaydecor #visitamherstisland #holidaygifts
🌲✨ Join the Amherst Island Experience - Featuring the Enchanting Owl Woods! ✨🌲
Calling all bird lovers and nature enthusiasts! 🦉 Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just looking to immerse yourself in nature, join me for a memorable adventure to Amherst Island. Discover the island’s rich wildlife, with a special highlight on Owl Woods – a rare chance to encounter a variety of owl species up close!
📅 Date: This Saturday
📍 Location: Amherst Island, Ontario
🌄 Experience: A day filled with nature, birding, and exploration. Guided by myself, a seasoned wildlife guide, this trip will bring you right into the heart of Ontario’s natural beauty.
🌐 Reserve Your Spot Now:
Message me for more details.
Spots are limited, so don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with nature and fellow nature lovers. Hope to see you there! 🌿🦉
#AmherstIsland #OwlWoods #BirdWatching #NatureAcrossCanada #OntarioNature #BirdingLife #WildlifeGuide #NatureLovers #OntarioBirds #ExploreOntario #torontonatureloversmeetup
It’s November: need a new cozy wool jacket? We are the only Eastern Ontario in-person retailer of Paul Long’s beautiful and functional garments that are truly built to last. Our customers really appreciate being able to try these gorgeous pieces on, eliminating the sizing guesswork associated with buying online. Come see what we have available in the gallery this weekend. We are open Saturday and Sunday 1-4pm. #amherstisland #amherstislandshopping #woolouterwear #tryon #menswear #womenswear
Our Listeners are THE BEST!!!
👀 someone you know?
TAG them in the comments so they know they are social media famous!!!!
Thanks to all of our Charity Radio Bingo Players for always getting in the spirit and having fun!
#halloweencostumes #listeners #kingston #Ontario #radiobingo #charity #havingfun #amherstisland #reelsofinstagram
