Jessica Allen is a Canadian artist and researcher whose work explores memory, heritage, and community identity. She creates murals, public artworks, and illustrative projects that transform historical narratives into visually engaging designs for public spaces. With a background in historical research and writing, she brings authenticity and depth to her visual practice, ensuring her work resonates both aesthetically and narratively.

Beyond her studio practice, Jessica is actively involved in the museum community. She serves on the Board of Directors and chairs the History Committee at the Orillia Museum of Art & History, helping guide exhibitions and community programming.

Her commitment to commemoration, storytelling, and community engagement informs both her volunteer work and her public art, connecting people with place, history, and shared heritage.

View Jessica’s Portfolio

Follow Jessica on Instagram @SimcoeCurator

They called her Bubbles. In the first photo, a young pilot stands in front of his plane, suited up and ready, looking calm and confident. The second photo shows what happened after. Bubbles didn’t make it. The plane’s torn apart. Whethe
This postcard from 1911 shows a local team from over a century ago, photographed in heavy wool uniforms long before polyester and printed logos. The photo is part of the Newmarket Historical Society’s collection and captures a time when baseba
A true Thanksgiving double-header: Turkey and Blue Jays! In 1988, eight-year-old Derek Leonardat got an unexpected souvenir at Puck’s Farm in Kleinberg when this baby turkey decided his Blue Jays cap was the perfect roost. Photo courtesy of
On February 10, 1914, Indian Agent Charles Myers reported to Ottawa that six-year-old Martin Noneguishkung had been beaten unconscious on his way home from the Rama Indian Day School. His “offense” was telling a teacher that another boy,
This sign once marked one of the most important archaeological sites in Ontario: the Ossossané Ossuary, near Penetanguishene. In 1636, Jesuit missionary Jean de Brébeuf reportedly witnessed a Wendat (Huron) mass reburial here, later kn
Wanted to get out on the water this summer so I tried something new & joined a women’s dragonboat league 🚣‍♀️ My Tuesday nights turned into regattas, ribbons, new friends, and lots of laughs. So glad I pushed myself to try something
Back to school season is a reminder that Ontario’s education system hasn’t always been fair or equal. This photo shows a Separate School in Oro (Edgar), taken around 1893, with African-Canadian children and their teacher. Families had se
This photo from the Digital Archives of Ontario features a moment from the North American Hot Air Balloon Championship, held in Barrie in 1986. Competitors would fly around & dropped a marker as close as possible to a large X on the ground, ear

  • "Jessica’s creativity and dedication have been invaluable to our organization. She designed our new logo and guided us through a grant application, which was successfully awarded. Her work combines artistic skill with deep understanding of local history, making a real impact in our community."

    —Essa Historical Society

  • Jessica brings creativity, insight, and dedication to everything she does. Her work on the History Committee and board initiatives has strengthened our programming and helped connect the museum with the broader community in meaningful ways."

    —Board Member, Orillia Museum of Art & History

  • "Jessica’s murals and public artworks bring history and community pride to life. She listens carefully to the people and places she works with, turning ideas into vibrant, meaningful art that everyone can enjoy."

    —Community Partner, City of Barrie