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The Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum has crowned two winners in the 2026 Rideau Artist of the Year Competition.
Nearly 20 regional artists took part during the July 25 Big Art Walk, creating original works inspired by downtown Smiths Falls and the Rideau waterway.
Carleton Place artist Heidi Sinnett tied for first place with her ink and watercolour piece, “Inkformation”, featuring the Smiths Falls Public Library.
Westport artist Lorraine Gravelle shared the title for her acrylic painting, *Lest We Forget*, a tribute to her cousin, decorated soldier Jean-Charles “Chuck” Beaulne, and to Canadian veterans.
Gravelle also won the competition in 2025.
Makenna Cleaver earned second place for her watercolour, “Mother’s Morning”, while Ottawa artist Ryan Hill received an honourable mention for “Streetside”.
The full exhibition is now on display at the Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum until Oct. 4.
Visitors can also help choose the People’s Choice winner.
The artist receiving the most public votes will take home $100 in Downtown Smiths Falls Dollars and free entry into next year’s competition.
