April is going to be an exciting month for art lovers in Winnipeg! The city is bursting with exhibitions, experiences, and unique opportunities to engage with local and international artists. Whether you’re into photography, film, sculpture, or simply exploring local galleries, there’s something for everyone this month. Here’s your guide to the best events in Winnipeg’s thriving art scene this April.

1. Flash Photography Festival – All Month

The Flash Photography Festival kicks off on April 3rd with an opening reception at the MHC Gallery at 7 pm. This annual festival is a must-see for photography enthusiasts and those who simply enjoy a good photograph. Expect a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the month at galleries across Winnipeg and the province at large.

Highlights include:

Don't miss out on these captivating photography exhibitions and installations across the city. For more information, visit the Flash Festival website.

2. First Fridays – April 4th

On the evening of April 4th, galleries and local stores in the Exchange District will open their doors for First Fridays, a beloved monthly event where art lovers can explore the local scene after hours. Start your evening with a guided Art Talk and Walk at 6:45 pm at 210 Princess St, or simply stroll the streets and explore the exhibitions at your own pace. This is a fantastic way to discover new artists and enjoy the vibrant arts culture in the heart of Winnipeg amidst beautiful, historical buildings. It's finally warmed up a bit so get out and enjoy it! Some galleries also give out food and wine, which is another great reason to head out this Friday.

Visit the First Fridays website to view which galleries will be taking part this month.

3. Films at the Cinematheque this April

For those with a love for cinema, the Dave Barber Cinematheque is hosting Only in Dreams: the films of David Lynch until April 6th. Expect screenings of some of Lynch's most iconic works, including Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, and Eraserhead as well as his short films. I was there for opening night and watched the Eraserhead/Blue Velvet double bill. I can't wait to see more this week! The Cinematheque is a wonderful venue with great snacks and even better ticket prices so don't miss this a fantastic opportunity to dive deep into the mind of one of cinema’s most enigmatic directors and watch the films on a big screen with a packed audience.

Later this month (9th-13th of April), the Cinematheque is screening the Architecture + Design Film Festival, which is a celebration of the intersection of creativity, design, and the built environment. This festival offers a unique chance to explore the world of architecture through film. I love this festival because it's a chance to see some fantastic documentaries and learn about exciting parts of the world and innovative architecture.

4. Winnipeg Fine Art Fair (April 4-6)

If you’re an art enthusiast, you'll want to check out the Winnipeg Fine Art Fair happening at the Red River Exhibition Grounds from April 4th to 6th. This is one of the city’s premier art events, showcasing a works from over 50 local, national, and international artists. Whether you’re a collector, a casual art lover, or someone seeking a new piece to add to your home, the Fine Art Fair offers something for everyone with a wide variety of mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. It’s also an opportunity to meet the artists and learn about their creative processes. A Fine Art fair is a very interesting experience from all perspectives, not just buyers and sellers. Learn more about the sometime elusive commercial art fair this weekend! The Fair opens on April 4th and runs through April 6th, so take advantage of this amazing event to discover new works and find inspiration from some of the best artists in the region.

5. WAG – Exhibitions, Inuit Art and More

The Winnipeg Art Gallery-Quamajuq (WAG) is perhaps what people first think about when they think about art in the city. This April, the WAG is hosting a special Canada Life Free Sunday on April 13th, offering free access to their extensive collection of exhibitions, including the remarkable Inuit Art at Quamajuq. This is a great opportunity to explore their permanent collection and rotating exhibitions, including Motherground, Winyan, Disorientations, Threads of Kin, and Backyard Florilegium. Be sure to attend the events and engage with the artworks throughout the day.

On April 13th, you can visit the museum for free! You can view all the exhibitions and permanent collection and even attend events such as the Storytelling workshop with acclaimed writers Rosanna Deerchild and Chimwemwe Undi and attend an artist talk with Dominique Rey, whose exhibition Motherground runs until June 28th, 2025.

6. MAWA Auction & Cupcake Party – April 11th & 13th

The Mentoring Artists for Women's Art (MAWA) Over the Top Art Auction & Cupcake Party is an event you won’t want to miss! The festivities kick off on April 11th with a free preview of the auction, followed by the main event on April 13th. Tickets for the auction are only $10, and it's a great way to support local artists while enjoying delicious cupcakes and bidding on unique artworks. It's a silent auction surrounded by cupcakes, what's not to love?

7.Dance and Theatre

Winnipeg is home to some superb visual arts institutions as well as performing arts venues. This April, view new work by Canada's oldest running dance company, Winnipeg's Contemporary Dancers. The company's dancers are NEXT LEVEL talented and watching them perform is a very unique experience. View their new dance pieces from the 25th-27th of April, and stick around after the 4pm show on Sunday the 27th to listen to an artist talk.

Many shows are coming to Winnipeg this April, like STOMP at the Centennial Concert Hall from the 17th-19th of April. This is a chance to see a Broadway show right here in Winnipeg, which features some unconventional instruments and choreography. Casey and Diana by Nick Green, the heartwarming, tear jerking play that warmed hearts at Stratford Festival in 2024, will be performed at Manitoba Theatre Centre until April 12th. Then, the world premier of ELEVATE: Manaaji'idiwin by David McLeod opens at MTC opens at MTC on April 24th.

8. Crafting Wellness at C2 – Closes April 24th

Craft lovers will appreciate Crafting Wellness at C2, an exhibition that celebrates the therapeutic power of making as well as exploring how the act of creating impacts artists. Whether you're new to crafting or an experienced artisan, this show is a great way to learn how creative expression can enhance well-being but also harm us. Hurry - it closes April 24th!

9. Sookram’s Brewing Co. – Mixed Media Monster Workshop – April 13th

For something a little different, join artist Kami Goertz at Sookram's Brewing Co. for a hands-on workshop: Craft + Craft Beer: Let’s Make a Mixed Media Monster! This event combines creativity with a fun, relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for those who want to unleash their inner artist while enjoying a craft beer.

10. The Pottery Bug – Ceramics Classes and Workshops

Interested in creating your own masterpiece? The Edge and Pottery Bug offer workshops and one-off classes all year around! Learn the art of pottery and create your own unique pieces – it’s a fantastic way to dive into the world of sculpture and ceramics!

With so much happening in Winnipeg’s art scene this April, you won’t want to miss out on any of these amazing experiences. So grab your friends, family or head out on your own to explore the galleries and immerse yourself in the creativity that makes Winnipeg’s art world truly special! Here's my calendar guide to What's on in Winnipeg's Art World this April: