Pelee Island Community Arts (registered as a Canadian charitable organization under Business Registration Number 872085675RR0001) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering arts, culture, and ecological stewardship on Pelee Island, Ontario. Established in 1995, it operates initiatives that emphasize community participation, local artistry, and environmental sustainability.

History
Founded by Mary Lou Atkinson and Roger Poisson, the organization repurposed a historic building formerly used as a community center for St. Mary’s Anglican Church. Volunteers renovated the space over three months, allowing Pelee Art Works—the organization’s flagship project—to open in June 1995[5]. The initiative aimed to preserve cultural heritage while supporting artists and artisans through workshops, retail opportunities, and public events.

Activities and Programs
Pelee Island Community Arts oversees multiple programs:

• Pelee Art Works: A retail space and gallery showcasing handcrafted goods by local and regional artists, open seasonally from mid-April to mid-October[2][3]. The center also hosts art workshops for adults and children, ranging from pottery to painting[5].
• Pelee Eco Works: Focused on environmental projects such as biodiversity conservation, invasive species management, and community cleanups[1].
• Island Unplugged Music Festival: An annual family-oriented event organized jointly with the Pelee Island Heritage Centre, featuring live music, food vendors, and artisan displays[1][4].

Collaborations and Impact
The organization collaborates with local entities to promote cultural and ecological initiatives. Its workshops and retail operations provide economic support to artists, while events like the music festival attract tourism to the island. Pelee Eco Works emphasizes sustainable practices, aligning with the island’s commitment to environmental preservation[1][3].