Linda Smith: A Hooker’s Manifesto

July 4 - September 8, 2026

Opening Reception, Saturday, July 4, 3:00 – 5:00 pm

When Life Gives You Fascists, Make Art.

This summer, the Colborne Street Gallery presents A Hooker’s Manifesto, a provocative solo exhibition by local artisan Linda Smith. For over two decades, Smith has mastered traditional Maritime rug hooking, a medium historically tethered to domesticity and regional heritage. In this new body of work, she subverts those traditions, transforming the comfort of textiles into a platform for fierce political urgency. Serving as a real-time response to the re-election of Donald Trump and the erosion of democratic norms, Smith uses vibrant wool and intricate loops to document profound modern moments of disbelief, outrage, and absurdity.

By marrying floral aesthetics with subversive commentary, Smith forces a confrontation with the viewer, questioning whether silence in the face of political shift can ever truly be neutral. The collection masterfully balances a stark ideological edge with a humorous aesthetic, inviting vital community conversation into the gallery space. 

In an alignment of craft and activism, 50% of all sales proceeds will be donated directly to the Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA).

CURRENTLY ON VIEW

We are so happy to welcome you to our space!

Tim, Chris, + Kevin