Designed by Dauphin architect Stuart Geekie, the Watson Art Centre has been a landmark since 1905. Built in the Romanesque Revival style, the building was nearly demolished in the early 1970s until the Dauphin and District Allied Arts Council (DDAAC), led by local dentist Dr. Vernon L. Watson, successfully campaigned to save it. In 1985, it was officially renamed in his honour.
Today, the Watson is the heart of Dauphin’s arts community, featuring an art gallery, pottery and art studios, a ballet room, meeting spaces, and a ballroom. It is also home to the Made in the Parkland store, offering one-of-a-kind gifts and locally made products. Many of these designs are also available through the centre’s online store via Art of Where, showcasing artwork donated to the DDAAC.
The Watson Art Centre is open Monday to Friday, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Website: watsonartcentre.com
