Wayzgoose and Special Events

Started in 1979 by the Grimsby Public Art Gallery's founding Director Bill Poole, Wayzgoose was a small gathering of friends and colleagues that attracted about 300 visitors. Since then it has grown into an eagerly awaited annual event with an attendance of between 2000 and 2500 people. Participants and visitors come from across Ontario, from Quebec and from the North Eastern states.

It has become part of the Wayzgoose tradition to produce an Anthology of work by the various participants. Sections, known as signatures, are hand bound into a volume that is sought after and cherished by many. Produced in a limited edition of 115, the Anthology is an original and lasting keepsake and also a means by which book artists that cannot come to Grimsby for the event are able to have a presence. The sale of these anthologies helps to offset the costs associated with Wayzgoose.

The 2024 Wayzgoose Anthology, as well as many back issues, are currently available to purchase for $80 (includes HST). Shipping is extra and is dependent on where you live. If you would like to purchase this unique work of art, want to know what years are still available, or would like a shipping quote, please contact the Gallery gpag@grimsby.ca or 905-945-3246.

If you are an artisan who specializes in the bookarts and are interested in participating in the next Wayzgoose, please contact the Gallery to be added you to our mailing list to receive application notices, which are typically sent out mid-December. Interested participants are given about a month to submit their application for review by the Wayzgoose Committee and will be notified of the Committee's decision in the beginning of February.

Applicants who will be actively demonstrating their book art, or in some other way directly engaging the public, are particularly encouraged. Book arts and related practices exhibited at Wayzgoose include, but are not limited to:

• bookbinding
• letterpress
• original printmaking
• paper making
• paper marbling
• calligraphy

Table fees are $45 (fee is subject to change)