The Event

What are the GRETAs?
The GRETAs are a community celebration recognizing outstanding artistic achievements created or presented in Guelph during the 2026 calendar year. They bring artists, audiences, and supporters together and help strengthen Guelph’s arts community.

Why is this event important?
The GRETAs help re-energize the arts sector post-pandemic, highlight the accomplishments of local creatives, inspire emerging artists, and raise funds to support Guelph Arts Council’s grant programs.

When and where is the GRETAs event?
The event is scheduled for February 28, 2027, at the River Run Centre Main Stage (pending funding confirmation).

How much are tickets?
Tickets will be free so that the whole community can participate.

Who will be performing or presenting at the event?
Artists selected for recognition may be invited to perform or present. A list of performers will be announced in early 2027.

What accessibility accommodations will be available at the event?
All venues will be physically accessible. If additional accommodations are needed, email gretas@guelpharts.ca and the team will assist.

Submissions

What recognitions can I nominate someone for?
Only individual works of art can be submitted for nomination. Other recognitions (eg. lifetime achievement, extraordinary support, etc.) will be identified by committee members.

Do I need to be a Guelph Arts Council member to participate?
No. Submitting work or attending the event does not require membership. Membership is optional and available on a sliding scale.

Can someone nominate a work of art without being the artist?
Yes. Anyone may submit on behalf of an artist as long as the artist is aware of and consents to the nomination.

How are recipients selected?
Each discipline has a panel of community insiders who review work from 2026 and identify artists whose work demonstrates excellence. Panels make their decisions independently and without public input.

If my work is selected for recognition, how will I be notified?
The GRETAs team will contact artists directly using the information provided in their submission form.

Will discipline insiders attend every in-person submission event?
The committee will make every reasonable effort to send a volunteer committee member, but attendance cannot be guaranteed due to scheduling and volunteer capacity. Digital capture of all artwork is recommended so that work can be submitted if a committee member is not available to attend.

What is my art spans multiple disciplines?
If the work you'd like to submit for nomination spans two or more discipline categories, submit it for all of them! The committees will individually determine the most relevant category for recognition.

Sponsorships

How can my organization support the GRETAs?
Check out our Sponsorship Package for more information about how your organization can support the GRETAs. If you have ideas that aren't covered in the Sponsorship Package, we'd love to hear them! Reach out to gretas@guelpharts.ca

Can I purchase advertising in the program?
Program advertising opportunities are included in our Sponsorship Package.

Other FAQ

How can I get involved if I’m not an artist?
If you have a business or organization that could sponsor the GRETAs, we'd love to chat! Download our Sponsorship Package to learn more and don't hesitate to reach out.

Volunteers will also be needed for the event. If you have specific skills that you think could be useful in planning and executing the event, please contact us.

Where can I ask further questions?
For any questions about the GRETAs, submissions, accessibility, or event details, please contact gretas@guelpharts.ca.