YOU ARE AT HOME IN BRONTE
Bronte is where lakeside charm, community spirit, and local businesses come together. What began as a small fishing village has grown into Oakville’s premier waterfront destination, proudly home to more than 13,000 residents and a thriving business community that continues to evolve alongside the neighbourhood it serves.
Since 2017, the Bronte BIA has proudly presented At Home in Bronte, a beloved public art initiative that has brought colour, creativity, and community spirit to the waterfront. As one of the largest painted Muskoka chair installations in Canada, the program invites local artists, families, community groups, schools, and businesses to transform iconic Muskoka chairs into unique works of art. More than just chairs, each one tells a story – celebrating cherished memories, family traditions, local landmarks, and the people who make Bronte such a special place. Together, they have become a signature attraction, encouraging visitors to explore the village, relax by the lake, and connect with Bronte’s vibrant community.
The 2026 At Home in Bronte project was made possible through the generous support of BUM Outdoor Furniture. This year, 85 residents, families, community organizations, artists, and Bronte businesses hand-painted chairs that are now proudly displayed throughout Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park, bringing the total collection across the district to 130 unique chairs.
Visitors are invited to stroll the waterfront, discover each one-of-a-kind design, and explore the shops, restaurants, and services throughout Bronte Village. Be sure to snap a photo with your favourite chair and share it with us by tagging @BronteEvents on Facebook and @BronteBIA on Instagram.
At Home in Bronte is one of the many ways the Bronte BIA encourages residents and visitors to get outside, discover local businesses, and experience the creativity, character, and welcoming spirit that make Bronte a truly unique waterfront destination.
Meet the Artists Behind At Home in Bronte 2026
Every chair in this year’s At Home in Bronte installation tells a unique story. Behind each design is an artist, family, community group, business, or organization that has poured their creativity, passion, and personal inspiration into creating a one-of-a-kind piece of public art. We’re so pleased to share their stories below.

Stitched With Love by The Ready Family
Stitched With Love was created to honour The Ready Family’s mother and grandmother who had a passion for sewing and creating beautiful things from forgotten materials. This chair reflects how memories, relationships, and moments of kindness are all stitched together to create the story of our lives.

Trucky by SiddiGuls
Trucky is a work of art inspired by traditional Pakistani Truck Art, known as ‘Phool Patti’ which translates to ‘Flowers and Petals’. To give this chair a local twist, these artists replaced the traditional Peacocks for Canada Geese to symbolize loyalty, teamwork, and guidance.

Rob’s Harbour Seat by The Volleyball Group (Painted by Alex Matolych)
Rob’s Harbour Seat is a beautiful tribute to the artist’s friend, Rob. Rob found peace spending countless hours at Bronte Harbour, where he would sit by the water, watch the boats, and reminisce on his own days on the water. This chair honours Rob’s memory and celebrates the things he loved most: boating, beach volleyball, and cycling along the waterfront trails.

Berry Sweet by Toni Sauvageot
Berry Sweet is inspired by the time this artist spent with her grandmother during strawberry season as a child. This chair brings to life memories of walking through the strawberry fields in the sun, surrounded by bright red berries and soft green leaves.

Migration by Lili Warren
Migration is inspired by the migration of the Monarch Butterfly on their journey between Canada and Mexico. Every fall, these beautiful butterflies travel from their summer breeding grounds in Canada all the way to central Mexico for hibernation. Their arrival in Mexico coincides with the Day of the Dead and therefore they are seen as the returning souls of loved ones. This is a beautiful work of art represents life, strength and tradition.

Let it Be by Tina Wilcock & Joanna Deidun-Roork
Created by two friends who met in art class who felt inspired to work together created Let it Be – A whimsical, bright, colourful and fun chair!

Lucy’s Way by Karen and Heather Ward
This beautiful work of art – Lucy’s Way – was created by a Mother Daughter duo as a tribute to their Mum/Grandmother who recently passed away. This chair represents all the things that she cherished most in life, inspired by flowers, the beauty of daytime + nighttime skies and the meaningful moments spent on country drives with her husband. This piece draws people in from a distance and rewards those who take the time to look more closely. This chair is a true work of art with a beautiful story to accompany it.

Looking Back at You by Abby Waddel
Looking Back at You is a beautiful piece created by a local tattoo artist who loves the Bronte scenery! Art is Abby’s passion, and one of her absolute favourite things to draw are tigers. This chair brings together Abby’s love of art and the Bronte area!

Pause, Play, Splash! by Divya Sharma and Family
Pause, Play and Splash! symbolizes fun, warmth and togetherness while inviting people of all ages to slow down, smile and enjoy the feeling of being present with the world around them. Take a peek at the playful frog dancing on a lily pad who represents the joy of stepping away from the busy routines and taking a moment to appreciate the little things – the sound of water, beauty of a flower and the movement of fish below the waters surface.

Sunset over Bronte by Creativefloart
This work of art was inspired by the evenings this family would spend at the Bronte Marina, one of their favourite places to watch the beautiful sunset over Lake Ontario. Memories of paddleboarding in the marina while enjoying the peaceful water and changing lights while watching boats float by is a core memory for these artists. The moments of movement, reflection, and connection with the lake was the amazing inspiration behind Sunset over Bronte.

Sit, Stay, Sold by RP Realty
Sit, Stay, Sold from RP Realty reflects the feeling of coming home to the welcoming community of Bronte. The deep blue tones are inspired by the gorgeous nearby waterfront and captures the calm nature and beauty of Lakeside Living.

Dockside Daydreams by Katelyn Goupille
Inspired by the artist’s Saturday ‘Coffee Cruise’ tradition with her husband, Dockside Daydreams celebrates the special moments they shared by the water. While expecting their first child, they spent many summer days walking the waterfront and relaxing on a favourite bench, and it later became their baby girl’s first family outing. This chair beautifully captures those cherished memories.

Gotta Catch em’ All! by Alex, Carson & Wesley Zych
Gotta Catch em’ All is an awesome chair made by a mom and her two young boys who are massive Pokémon fans alongside many of their friends! The goal was to create a chair that excites the child in all of us – the artists hope that people will enjoy the bright colours and whimsy.

Coach Brian by The Ratcliffe Family
This chair is a celebration of the life of a beloved father and grandfather whose greatest passion was his family, followed closely by his love of soccer. Brian spent many years coaching the sport he loved and was especially excited that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be hosted in Canada. This chair honours Coach Brian’s memory and reflects his passion for soccer, family, and the waterfront. It is hoped that others will take a seat, enjoy the view of the lake and the boats, and find the same sense of peace and joy that Brian cherished.

Growing Together by James W. Hill, 5/6-1
This awesome chair – Growing Together – was created by a class of 27 students from James W. Hill Elementary School. If you look closely, you will find 27 strawberries on this chair, each one representing a different student. Alongside the strawberries, you will see books, stars, flowers, butterflies and more!

The Chair of Freedom by James W. Hill, 5/6-1
The Chair of Freedom created by a whole class of students was made to represent inclusivity and the joy of bringing people together. The tree symbolizes everyone growing together, the river portrays the beautiful nature of Bronte Creek, and finally, the strawberries represent the true meaning of freedom. What an awesome piece of artwork!

Hub Fitness
This awesome chair represents strength, community, and the power of showing up 24/7. In Oakville, community matters, this chair tells the story of people coming together, supporting each other, and growing stronger one workout at a time.

Let’s Get Creative! by The Oakville Art Society
This work of art – Let’s Get Creative – by the Oakville Art Society celebrates the tradition of ‘Plein Air’ painting, something artists are grateful to be able to experience in Bronte and Oakville’s beautiful parks. With such natural beauty in and around Bronte, there is endless artistic inspiration for the artist in everyone.

Ideo by Clif
Ideo is a work of art about finding yourself. From a distance, the red arrow appears to direct you to sit in the chair, but when you look closer, it points to an outline of the map of Ontario. Such a unique idea from a local artist!

Fierté Francophone by École secondaire Gaétan-Gervais – Art Club
Fierté Francophone is a tribute to French culture, community, and Gaétan-Gervais’ school values. The roots you can see at the bottom of this chair illustrate how French culture runs deep and, how it needs to grow and thrive to become as strong as a tree. That super cool Griffin at the top represents the school’s emblematic animal and the school motto “At Gaétan-Gervais, everybody is committed.”

Ultraviolet Rest by Jeffrey Cutler
Ultraviolet rest is an awesome work of art that explores the art of graffiti tied in with the crisp atmosphere of the Bronte Pier. An awesome spot to take a seat and enjoy the scenery!

Imperial Brady Unity Chair by Imperial Brady Canada
Imperial Brady Unity Chair was created to represent unity, collaboration, and teamwork. This chair was painted by a team who all come from different backgrounds, but nonetheless, come together. This piece of art symbolizes how we all grow together and what we can achieve when we choose to stand together and support one another.

Rest. Connect. Explore. by The Halton Outdoor Club
Rest. Connect. Explore. represents the year-round activities of The Halton Outdoor Club and the wonderful community that forms when people come together outdoors. Whether it be through hiking, cycling, kayaking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, this club allows for a space for individuals to connect and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds us. This chair is an invitation to sit, rest and connect with community while exploring nature together.

Owl Always Love Bronte Harbour by Maria Paiero
Owl Always Love Bronte Harbour centers around the wise owl as a prominent observer. This Owl invites you to pause and reflect on the beauty and wisdom of our own local landscape. If you look closely, the base of the chair becomes an Oak tree with leaves and acorns wound around the armrests and legs as a nod to Oakville’s legendary 250-year-old Great White Oak. This wise owl is a guardian of our shoreline, watching over Bronte and its wildlife.

Tails of Bronte by Maia Cantarelli
Created by a young artist and lifelong Bronte resident, Tails of Bronte brings together a love of art and animals. Inspired by the local waterfront trail, the chair celebrates the neighbourhood’s beloved dogs through playful portraits set against a vibrant teal background – the artist’s favourite colour!

The Inclusion Seat by The Halton Down Syndrome Association
Created by a talented group of artists from the Halton Down Syndrome Association, The Inclusion Seat celebrates belonging, connection, and acceptance. Blue and yellow hands symbolize community, while the heart at the centre is a reminder that kindness helps everyone feel seen, valued, and welcome.

Eric the Chair by The Maple Sisters
Inspired by the warmth of Canadian life, Eric the Chair celebrates everything from maple syrup to the trees that surround Bronte. This nature-inspired design encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate the simple beauty found all around them.

Our Community Circle by The Simoes Cavalcanti Family
Our Community Circle celebrates the strength of community and the connections we build with one another. A rainbow symbolizes hope and joy, while the heart at the centre reminds us that love is at the heart of every strong community. This chair is a celebration of togetherness that says – “You are a part of this circle”.

Serenity by Bea Bea Art Studio
Serenity is a gentle reminder to slow down in a busy world. This chair encourages visitors to pause, rest, and enjoy a quiet moment, embracing the importance of taking time for themselves.

Tomato Tide by The Cushnie Conforti Family
Inspired by sunny summer days, Tomato Tide celebrates family traditions of growing ripe tomatoes and making homemade tomato sauce together. It is a tribute to the simple joys of family and time well spent.

Nature: Reimagined by The Team at Planted Aquaria
This awesome chair is a celebration of a local business – Planted Aquaria – and their five-year anniversary in the Bronte area! This chair incorporates our fishy friends whether they be from local lakes, or distant oceans.

The Social-Distancing Songbird Seat by The Jahnke Family and Sunnyvale Friends
The inspiration behind this lovely chair comes from a local Bronte family who during COVID-19 took up the hobby of painting bird houses and birdwatching. This hobby even spread to their neighbours, what a fun bonding experience in the times of social distancing! On this chair, you can see many birds that can be found in the Bronte area – Robins, Woodpeckers, Cardinals and more!

Steps Through Time by The Kensington Oakville
Steps Through Time represents aging not as an end, but as a beautiful continuation – a graceful walk-through time filled with memories, resilience, and quiet beauty.

Bronte Harbour Inspires Burloak Canoe Club by The Burloak Canoe Club
The artists of this chair – The Burloak Canoe Club – have created a community that thrives not only because of their love of the sport, but also because of their shared connection with the water. The artwork on this this chair represents the environment that this club is able to train in and enjoy everyday. Take a moment to sit in this chair and appreciate the beauty of the water that surrounds you!

Ben’s Chair by Susan & Meghan Teague
This beautiful chair was created in memory of the artist’s brother and son, Ben, who passed away in 2019. A cherished family tradition celebrated the birth of each child by planting a tree, and Ben’s tree is a White Pine that still stands at the family home. This beautiful artwork is inspired by that White Pine and symbolizes Ben’s spirit.

Better Together by Adults in Motion
This group of talented artists from Adults in Motion – a local day program in Oakville for adults with disabilities – worked hard on this awesome chair which is proudly displayed at the Bronte Harbour! This group loves the Bronte community and created Better Together to represent their members within the community.

TERRARIO by Onur Erkucuk & Nabeel Malik
TERRARIO draws inspiration from the natural colours of Bronte’s parks and green spaces. It invites visitors to relax and reconnect with the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The Bronte Family Chair by Bella & Cristina Saban
The design of The Bronte Family Chair may seem simple, but it is deeply meaningful to the artists. Bronte is a place where their hearts feel opened and free, often dancing with each other at what they call ‘park parties’. The music notes represent the rhythm that’s moves us, and the heart reminds you to allow yourself to be present and connected!

Folklore in Flower Gardens by Kayla Power
Inspired by the fairy doors tucked into neighbourhood gardens, Folklore in Flower Gardens celebrates imagination and wonder. It encourages visitors to look for a little magic wherever they explore. Make sure to keep an eye out for fairy doors near you!

Sabrina’s Macaw-ka Chair by Sabrina Tyrrell
Sabrina’s Macaw-ka Chair was painted to manifest a fun and warm summer in Bronte. Make sure to appreciate the beauty of the nature around you when sitting in this chair!

Just Plant It by Mary Ziegel
Just Plant It encourages visitors to grow pollinator-friendly gardens that support bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other wildlife. Inspired by the artist’s love of gardening, she hopes to inspire others to plant for nature. Make sure to plant a few pollinator plants in your garden this summer!

The Guppy Gang by The Kuttavillas
Inspired by a love of fish and their important role in the ecosystem, The Guppy Gang celebrates the peaceful beauty of aquatic life. Created by artists with a background in biology, this chair reflects their appreciation for Bronte’s natural environment.

The Gaming Chair by Jordan Murphy
The Gaming Chair brings favourite video game characters to Bronte Harbour. Visitors of all ages are invited to take a seat and see how many familiar characters they can spot.

The Bronte Wave by Dylan Murphy
Created by a young artist, The Bronte Wave was created to showcase life near the water! It is painted with ships, waves, paddleboards, surfboards, and other favourite waterfront activities.

For All of Us by The Bronte Harbour Nursery School
For All of Us celebrates unity, inclusion, and belonging. Inspired by the values of Bronte Harbour Nursery School, this chair reminds visitors that communities are strongest when everyone feels welcome!

XcelEBRATE Us by Community Living Oakville Xcel Program
XcelEBRATE Us is painted by every single member of the Xcel program of Community Living Oakville! This group spends hours every summer enjoying the Bronte Harbour, so having their own chair here is only fitting. This colourful display of silhouettes and hands celebrates people’s uniqueness, creativity, and abilities.

The Gathering Star by The Church of the Epiphany / Community Living Oakville Art Groups
The Church of the Epiphany has long been a place in Bronte Creek Village for community, inclusivity and growth. The Gathering Star was painted by a group of 12 artists from Community Living Oakville who gathered weekly to create this masterpiece! Use this chair as a moment to sit, pause and reflect.

The Compassionate Explorer: A Map of Growth by Rotherglen School
The map you see on The Compassionate Explorer: A Map of Growth are landmarks which represents a student’s milestones such as the ‘Harbour of Heart’, and ‘The Forest of Curiosity’. See if you can spot the Climbers, Sailors and more who all represent the power of collaboration and teamwork. The map’s legend is Rotherglen’s three pillars – Community, Experience and Opportunity – such a cool chair to sit in while enjoying the scenery!

True – North – Strong – Free by The Willey Family
The artists of True – North – Strong – Free have an awesome story that accompanies it! James married Katie, a Canadian, in 2016 and traveled all the way from the UK to live in Bronte and is now celebrating his official Canadian Citizenship this year! To celebrate, they created a chair with everything Canadian – from bears and beavers, all the way to hockey and canoeing – this chair is a celebration of Canada!

The People on the Bus Go Round and Round by Oroni Hasan
This artist was inspired by her journeys to and from University and the different people she would see on the bus. She oftentimes noticed the same people on the bus, knowing so much about them – yet nothing at all. The People on the Bus Go Round and Round is based off her appreciation for the people and strangers she came across on public transit.

The Eastview Nest by Eastview PS, HDSB
Eastview is a school nestled into the Bronte Community and is home to the Eastview Eagles, their school is built on kindness, belonging, the joy of learning and inclusivity. As a collaboration with the special education classes and the mainstream classes, this chair reflects their school logo, virtues, as well as symbols of autism and down syndrome as many other attributes that makes Eastview stand out!

Ontario Native Wild Flora and Fawna by Carly Franklin
Ontario Native Wild Flora and Fawna was created by a local artist who grows flowers and plant materials that are used for dyes and making cloth. When you are sitting on this chair while staring out onto the lake, take the time to ask the questions – what is that plant floating in the water? What made that sound up in the tree? Use this chair as a moment to reflect on the nature that surrounds us.

Sunset Seat at Golden Hour by OSCR (Oakville Senior Citizens Residence)
This serene chair was inspired by golden hour down at Bronte Harbour. Take a moment to relax in the Sunset Seat at Golden Hour and take in the golden views over the lake.

Gnome Seat Gnome by The Hendernyk Family
Created during one of this family’s last activities together before two daughters head off to university, Gnome Seat Gnome represents each family member through playful animals and characters gathered around the gnome, symbolizing the comfort of home.

HG Huskies – Graduating Class 2025-2026 by Heritage Glen Public School
Designed by Grade 8 students, this chair celebrates the legacy of the graduating class. Footprints climbing the chair represent their journey from kindergarten through to graduation.

Spring into Summer by Shveti Shah and Aarush Shah
Spring into Summer celebrates the changing seasons through colourful flowers, leaves, and wildlife. It invites visitors to embrace the bright energy and beauty of summer!

Colour in the Ordinary by The Lopez Family
Colour in the Ordinary represents how life can sometimes feel ordinary – like the background of a design – but if you look closely, life is full of small colourful moments that bring joy and meaning.

Oil Spill by Kelsey Brown
This unique chair – Oil Spill – is inspired by the visual contrast of clear water and oil pollution. When oil spreads across the surface, it forms a thin iridescent film that shifts with light and movement. This chair was created so users will pause and reflect on the presence of pollution in our waterways and the impact it has on the environment.

Sunrise Rooster Garden by Maryna Salagub, Goodfairyart
Sunrise Rooster Garden features a vibrant Petrykiva style composition of a proud rooster surrounded by flowers, berries, and more. Inspired by Ukrainian folk art, this rooster symbolizes joy, energy, and the start of a new day while bringing warmth and optimism to the waterfront.

Fresh Forest by K. Addison Art
This independent artist uses art to communicate, express herself and release stress. This abstract view of colourful leaves and birch tress represents stability, strength, resilience, growth and life. When you sit in Fresh Forest, take a deep breath and appreciate the beauty around you.

Sunsets & Blossoms @ Harbour by Hena & Kruti Shah
A serene harbourfront scene unfolds through Sunsets & Blossoms @ Harbour, blending nature and tranquility. The warm glow of a setting sun melts into the horizon, reflecting gently across calm waters where sailboats drift and birds fly freely.

Pride and Prejudice: 250th Anniversary Edition by Plumleaf Press
Created by local publisher Plumleaf Press, this chair celebrates their special edition of Pride and Prejudice, published to mark the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth. The striking blue peacock reflects the book’s cover artwork!

The Gathering by Kieren, Kayda and Karina Roy – Painted by the K-Team
The Gathering represents this family’s journey with Bronte, beginning long before they called it home. As a child, this artist would travel to Bronte to watch the fireworks with their family, sitting on the docks and walking along the boardwalk. The moments remained in their memory, and now with Bronte as their home, this chair represents that journey.

Bronte Rainbow Wave Chair by Sheldon Guo
Inspired by time spent at Bronte Waterfront, Bronte Rainbow Wave Chair uses blues, greens, yellows, and oranges to represent the lake, trees, grass, and sunshine. Take a moment to relax when you see this chair and make sure to look for hidden details!

Garden Reverie by PrueRossi Art Studio
This work of art is an exploration of the joy, colours, and quiet beauty found in everyday moments. Using a stained glass inspired style, Garden Reverie is the perfect spot to pause and reflect.

The Hands of Courage Culture Club by The Courage Culture Club
The Courage Culture Club is an awesome program designed for adults with special and complex needs, where participants come together to build friendships, express themselves and feel fully accepted for who they are. Each handprint on The Hands of Courage Culture Club is designed by a participant in their own unique way, representing their creativity and identity. Each handprint tells a story, and together they form a vibrant and unified piece that reflects the beauty of diversity within our community.

Bonjour Baguette by The Smiths
Inspired by the artist’s daughter, Audrey, Bonjour Baguette celebrates her love of geese and her imaginative spirit. Audrey’s playful artistic style often features animals sporting hats or moustaches, and this charming goose is no exception. With its jaunty personality and touch of French flair, Bonjour Baguette is a fitting addition to Bronte, a community with a long history of resident geese. The artists hope this whimsical creation brings smiles to everyone who encounters it.

The Bronte Compass by Molly Klass
This awesomely Canadian chair – The Bronte Compass – was designed and painted by an artist who grew up on the Canadian lakes. This chair symbolizes guidance, direction and love for adventure!

Harbour Duck by Madeline Klass
Inspired by the ducks that call Bronte Harbour home, Harbour Duck celebrates the familiar feathered friends that delight visitors along the shoreline.

Bluenose, Queen of the North Atlantic by The Ready Family
This nautical chair honours the legendary Bluenose, Canada’s famous fishing and racing schooner featured on the Canadian dime and celebrated as the Queen of the North Atlantic. When you take a seat in Bluenose, Queen of the North Atlantic, make sure to look out into the water and see what boats you can spot.

Life is Good by Chloe & Paula Adams
Inspired by walks along the Bronte waterfront with their father and family dogs, this chair honours his memory and his favourite saying, “Life is Good.”

Hooked on Bronte by The Future Mr. & Mrs. Williams
Inspired by a shared love of fishing, Hooked on Bronte celebrates peaceful days on the waterfront and the memories made together. For this couple, fishing represents slowing down, appreciating nature, and embracing life in Bronte.

Lake Ontario Sunrise by Lora Pacorini
Lake Ontario Sunset, created by Lora, invites everyone to take a seat and enjoy its beautiful celebration of Bronte’s stunning waterfront sunsets.

BLOOM by Laura Ruiz / ArtLabCreators
BLOOM created by Laura Ruiz from ArtLabCreators is an awesome piece that you can spot at Bronte Harbour!

Set me Free – Faith and Redemption by Carlene Ling & Family
Set me Free – Faith and Redemption is a unique piece created by Carlene and Family from blingeventsinternational!

Sandy Sue’s Sunset by Jenn and Becky
Sandy Sue’s Sunset is both a meaningful and beautiful chair painted by Jenn and Becky.

Bikini Village by Matilda and Zara
Created by Matilda and Zara, Bikini Village brings colour and creativity to the Bronte waterfront.

PARK YOUR BUM
Park your bum in this cozy Canadian themed chair!

The Rise of Kaelie Bear by Kael & Keira Khosa (Prabh and Jimmy – Shoppers Drug Mart
The Rise of Kaelie Bear is a playful and imaginative creation that adds personality and charm to Bronte Harbour!

Fortified by FORT Coatings
With paint as their specialty, no wonder Fortified is such an awesome chair!

Treat Seat by Flavour Fox
Treat Seat created by the local business Flavour Fox is an awesome chair to take a seat in while enjoying your very own sweet treat!