THEMUSEUM presents: The Brush Off 12th Edition

One night only – Saturday, February 1, 2025: THEMUSEUM hosts the 12th edition of Waterloo Region’s original, premier live art-making and fundraising event, The Brush Off, part of their Museum After Dark event series.

Local emerging and established artists participate in a friendly competition, painting and creating art in front of a live audience, who vote for their favourite artwork and bid on the art in a silent auction!

Art created – right before your eyes

Guests will enjoy a drink while watching the artists create artwork during this fast-paced art-making competition. Throughout the night, attendees will vote on their favourite paintings – and have the chance to bid and take one home from the silent auction.

Six artists, sitting or standing on a raised white platform, create art live as event attendees look on, chatting and enjoying beverages.

(Photo credits: THEMUSEUM. The Brush Off 11th Edition, January 2024.)

All artists, each of whom had until December 1, 2024 to sign up for participation, are donating their time to create the art – with THEMUSEUM providing all paint, canvas and easels; and artists bringing their own brushes and tools. Artists will compete in up to three rounds. Winners from each round will be selected by audience votes and advance to the final round, with the winning and runner-up artists receiving prizes. THEMUSEUM and artists will share in the silent auction proceeds (60/40).

While this is an all-ages event, it’s not recommended for children under 12.

“Whenever art and science come together, it’s a beautiful thing. THEMUSEUM brings science to life with entertaining, artistic exhibits and provides a wonderful venue for artists to express their unique view of the world.”

– Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow

About THEMUSEUM

THEMUSEUM (yes, they indeed do spell their name all in one word with uppercase letters) is an experiential and bold place to play, explore and be amazed in Kitchener, ON. It is a registered not-for-profit, charitable organization offering fresh and relevant exhibitions and programming to their Waterloo Region community. Part science centre, part art gallery, it features five interactive and immersive levels – combining art, science and technology – offering a whole lot of imagination, exploration and fun. From Warhol to Goodall to Titanic to the Rolling Stones to Giraffes to STE(A)M programming in the Underground Studio MakerSpace, THEMUSEUM has emerged as an incomparable creative experience for all ages. They also host exceptional Museum After Dark licensed experiences, including their annual fundraising event, The Brush Off. Read more about them here.

Illustrated image for The Brush Off 12th Edition, rendered as a multi-coloured abstract painting, with paint splotches on the yellow lettering for the main title.

(Photo credits: THEMUSEUM.)

Event details

Hosted by: THEMUSEUM

Type of event: live art competition & fundraiser

Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025

Start time: 7:30 PM ET (doors open at 7:00 PM & the artist competition starts at 7:45 PM)

Duration: 5 hours (event ends at midnight)

Cost: C$30.00 (including fees & taxes)

Location: THEMUSEUM, 10 King Street West, Kitchener, ON, N2G 1A3

Booking link: Book your tickets here

Contact details: THEMUSEUM, 10 King Street West, Kitchener, ON, N2G 1A3, Canada; 519-749-9387, info@themuseum.ca, themuseum.ca

Content warning: This is an all-ages event; however, it is not recommended for children under 12.

Accessibility: THEMUSEUM is completely wheelchair and stroller accessible. There is also one free wheelchair that can be borrowed from Visitor Services, depending on availability.