A contemporary space. A creative community to inspire artists, residents, and visitors. Artist-led and artist-focused.

Eltuek (el-du-eg) is a Mi’kmaw word that means “We are making (it) together.” The (it) refers to whatever it is (we) decide to make – art, ideas, music, community, social change. Eltuek Arts Centre is accessible, inclusive, and continuous.

Eltuek Arts Centre is in Sydney, Unama’ki (Cape Breton Island). Eltuek features artist studios, Open Studio for shared artist workspaces, gallery and exhibition spaces, the Café Marie and Meals on Wheels, Nova Scotia Community College Music Arts Program, Celtic Colours International Festival, Nova Stream, and The Coast 89.7 FM Radio Station.

Our private studios are currently at capacity. Please contact us at eltuek@newdawn.ca to be added to the waitlist. We will be opening more desk workspaces in the Open Studio in 2022.

Learn more behind Eltuek and the Naming Ceremony >

Eltuek Arts Centre is a creative arts hub in the north end of Sydney that features private artist studios, an Open Studio for shared artist workspaces, gallery and exhibition space, Cafe Marie Cafe and Meals on Wheels, arts and community organizations, and creative gathering and event spaces for the community. Eltuek Arts Centre is a non-profit arts organization that is owned and operated by New Dawn Enterprises. New Dawn is a private, not-for-profit, volunteer-directed social enterprise dedicated to community building. We are the oldest Community Development Corporation in Canada and a founding member of the Canadian Community Economic Development Network. Our Mission, to engage the community to create a culture of self-reliance, is as relevant today as it was when the organization was founded back in 1976.

Eltuek Arts Centre opened in February 2020 in the former Holy Angels Convent, ca. 1885. New Dawn Enterprises purchased it in 2013, and the 130-year-old heritage building is the largest adaptive reuse of built heritage in Unama’ki, Cape Breton Island. The building stands as a symbol of hope and renewal for a community that has struggled for more than 40 years to reinvent itself after the decline of the coal and steel industries.

Cafe Marie is a warm, welcoming space for gathering, reflection, and connection—whether over lunch, coffee with friends, a work session, or a meeting with colleagues. Located in the heart of Eltuek Arts Centre, it is both a neighbourhood cafe and a community anchor. Rooted in values of playful hospitality, equity, and sustainability, Cafe Marie Cafe and Catering is a social enterprise committed to sourcing from local farmers, creating dignified kitchen and restaurant work, and supporting newcomers to Cape Breton Island. It plays a growing role in strengthening local food systems and deepening community engagement through events, partnerships, and shared meals.