On Sunday 14 September 2026, the French-inspired art event Montmartre aan de Gracht (Montmartre by the Canals) returns for its fourth edition in the historic Museum Quarter of Utrecht. Between 12:00 and 17:00, the quarters' picturesque canals and bridges will be transformed into a vibrant open-air studio, bustling with painters, creatives, and the atmospheric sounds of French chansons.
With this event, we proudly shine a spotlight on our rich, cultural Museum Quarter - home to numerous museums and galleries showcasing both classical and contemporary art. We also passionately want to encourage outdoor painting and drawing. By picking up a brush yourself, you not only learn to observe more deeply and appreciate beauty, but you also discover firsthand that creating a truly great artwork is no easy feat!
As a proud co-organiser, Morren Galleries invites everyone - enthusiastic amateurs, and passers-by alike - to set up their easels for the day. Eight professional artists will be actively drawing and painting on and around Utrecht’s iconic bridges, including the Weesbrug, Geertebrug and Smeebrug along the Oudegracht, and the Brigittenbrug and Magdalenabrug along the Nieuwegracht. For visitors struck by sudden inspiration, the organisation will provide basic materials and drawing paper on-site.
Awards Ceremony at Morren Galleries
The grand finale of this creative Sunday will take place at 18:00 right here at Morren Galleries (Oudegracht 340). Every participant is invited to submit their finished pieces at our gallery before 17:00 . The eight professional artists will judge the artworks, select the top three, and crown the Museum Quarter Artist of the Year 2026. The highly anticipated prizes for the winning top three are generously sponsored by Swaak, Utrecht’s premier art supply store.
The grand finale of this creative Sunday will take place at 18:00 right here at Morren Galleries (Oudegracht 340). Every participant is invited to submit their finished pieces at our gallery before 17:00 . The eight professional artists will judge the artworks, select the top three, and crown the Museum Quarter Artist of the Year 2026. The highly anticipated prizes for the winning top three are generously sponsored by Swaak, Utrecht’s premier art supply store.
Join us to experience a unique touch of Parisian flair in the heart of Utrecht, watch the artists at work, or pick up a brush yourself! Attendance and participation are entirely free of charge. For the full programme and exact locations, please visit the Centrum Utrecht website.
July 27, 2026
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