2010 vancouver island arts & cultural trail guide

Canada

With all there is to see and do,there’s one place to plan and book: HelloBC.com

Get the information you need to help plan the perfect British Columbia vacation. Where to go, what to see and where to stay. Youcan also book your trip online at HelloBC.com or by calling 1-800 HELLO BC® (604-HELLO BC in Greater Vancouver). And when you’re inBC, stop by one of the many Visitor Centres for even more up-to-the-minute travel information.

Visit us at HelloBC.com to start planning your BC experience.

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For more information on Vancouver Island contact 1.888.655.3483 or visit VancouverIslandArts.ca

Cover Photo taken in Port Alberni by Chrischeadle.com

The Vancouver Island Arts and Cultural Trail Guide is published by Van Dop & Associates in partnership with Tourism Vancouver Island.

1.888.981.9886 | www.art-bc.com

Table of Contents

6 Island Art

8The Gulf Islands

31North Island

10 South Island

5Map of

Vancouver Island

16Cowichan

27North Central

Salt Spring IslandSalt Spring Island www.jlcgallery.comwww.jlcgallery.com

Jill Louise CampbellFINE ART


Escape into nature.Escape into nature.

Yvonne MaximchukSeaRose Studio

Painter, Potter, Instructor, NaturalistEcho Bay, Simoom Sound, BC, V0P 1S0www.searosestudio.net • P: [email protected]

www.vancouverislandnorth.ca

Just Art

Features one of the largest collections on northern Vancouver Island. Totem Poles, Paddles and Masks all carved and painted, are regularly available.

1705 Campbell Way, Port McNeillPhone: 250-956-4908

Café Guido & West Coast Community Craft Shop

SHOP - local art is featured in West Coast Community Craft Shop gallery

SIP - indulge in espressos & sweet homemade scones at Café Guido

SAVOUR - great new books and funky SAVOUR - great new books and funky SAVOURgiftware in the Book Nook

7135 Market Street, Port HardyCafé & Books: 250-949-9808Gallery: 250-949-2650

U’mista Cultural Centre

The centre houses the renowned Potlatch Collection and other traditional and contemporary artifacts. Our gift shop offers fi ne carvings and local, traditional arts & crafts.

1 Front Street, Alert BayPhone: 250-974-5403www.umista.ca

www.vancouverislandnorth.cawww.vancouverislandnorth.ca

Phone: 250-974-2484010A Front Street, Alert Bay, BC

www.cultureshockgallery.ca

Culture Shock Interactive Gallery

Aboriginally owned and operated. Create lasting memories Create lasting memories

with a ‘Namggis Roots Experience. Also

featuring ‘Namggis inspired clothing, jewelry and gifts.

26 Central Island & Pacific Rim

Canada

19 Vineyards & Fine Cuisine

Photography by Boomer Jerritt

INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED FOR WARM HOSPITALITY,

GORGEOUS SCENERY, AND EXCEPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

AND ATTRACTIONS, THE VANCOUVER ISLAND REGION IS

ACCLAIMED BY THE READERS OF THE PRESTIGIOUS CONDÉ

NAST TRAVELER MAGAZINE AND WAS NAMED TOP NORTH

AMERICAN ISLAND NINE YEARS IN A ROW AND THIRTEEN

TIMES OVER THE PAST SIXTEEN YEARS.

4 / Vancouver Island

Heritage & CultureDiscovering the history of the Vancouver Island region is an exciting

journey into the past, and full of insight into our modern culture. Ride

a steam train through an outdoor forestry museum or explore a fully

restored heritage mill where actors demonstrate the tools of their trades.

Stroll through flourishing gardens first planted by early settlers or have

an English-style tea party in the garden of a heritage home. Visit a

community that was established more than a century ago by Finnish

idealists with a dream of Utopia. Discover the haunting story behind a

significant collection of First Nations ceremonial regalia. See the history

of a town depicted in outdoor murals or watch First Nations artisans

demonstrate the ancient skills of their ancestors. Museums here bring

the past to life: the ancient traditions and proud culture of the First

Nations; stories of pioneer hardships and lifestyles and the people who

built the region’s communities; tales of marine exploration, the heroes

that charted these waters, and the perils they faced; the early days

of forestry, fishing, mining, agriculture, aviation; and the military. The

Vancouver Island region’s museums are the keepers of a tremendous

wealth of historic treasure to be preserved and shared. Anywhere you

travel in the Vancouver Island region, you’ll find pieces of our history,

from the larger collections at places like the Art Gallery of Greater

Victoria, Royal B.C. Museum, Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre, Nanaimo Art

Gallery, McLean Mill National Historic Site in Port Alberni, Museum at

Campbell River, and U’mista Cultural Centre to historic sites and the

smaller artefact collections in museums in almost every community on

the Island.

WELCOME TO VANCOUVER ISLAND

VANCOUVER ISL AND


Ferry Route

LEGEND

Brentwood Bay

For more information call 1.888.655.3483 | www.VancouverIslandArts.ca / 5

For information on the Vancouver Island region visit VancouverIslandArts.ca or call 1.888.655.3483

VANCOUVER ISL AND

Photo by Boomer Jerritt

Canada

Island ArtMaybe it’s the inspiring scenery or the

relaxed island lifestyle, but this region is blessed with an impressive population of creative people: painters, sculptors, jewellers, potters, weavers, glass blowers, wood workers, writers, photographers, and designers. When it comes to local products, you have so many lovely choices. Handmade soaps and body care products made from Island-grown ingredients, hand-knit sweaters made from the wool of Island sheep, alpacas, and llamas, and handmade furniture crafted from Island wood, to an amazing selection of unique folk art: gillnet rugs, hand-painted gumboots, hand-blown glass, driftwood sculptures, hand-woven textiles, garden art, and much, much more. The potters create outstanding decorative and functional ceramic pieces, and jewellers work their intricate magic using everything from local wood and B.C. agates to gold, silver, and the

IT IS THE ARRAY

OF CREATIONS

MADE RIGHT HERE

THAT MAKES

SHOPPING IN

THE VANCOUVER

ISLAND REGION

AN EXPERIENCE

YOU WON’T FIND

ANYWHERE ELSE

IN THE WORLD.

6

Photography by Tourism Vancouver Island


finest quality Canadian diamonds. Many of the painters and sculptors that live and work in the Vancouver Island region are world-renowned, and you can see their work in exclusive galleries and, in some cases, meet the artists themselves. A number of galleries specialize in carvings, jewellery, paintings, and prints by some of the very best First Nations artists in the province. In bookstores, you’ll find tales of local history written by Island authors with pictures by Island illustrators and photographers, and, in the gift shops, a huge selection of souvenirs for the folks back home, from amusing little trinkets to exquisite giftware. Antique and collectable shops throughout the region offer all kinds of intriguing and often unusual items with a past. Take the time to explore the uniqueness of each region of Vancouver Island, Victoria and the Gulf Islands. For complete information visit VancouverIslandArts.ca.

MANY OF THE

PAINTERS AND

SCULPTORS THAT

LIVE AND WORK IN

THE VANCOUVER

ISLAND REGION

ARE WORLD-

RENOWNED.

YOU CAN SEE

THEIR WORK

IN EXCLUSIVE

GALLERIES

AND, IN SOME

CASES, MEET

THE ARTISTS

THEMSELVES.

7


8 / Gulf Islands | Galiano Island

THE GULF ISLANDS

The Gulf Islands are home to many artists and artisans. On all of the Gulf Islands, you’ll find galleries belonging to potters, sculptors, woodworkers and artisan bread, cheese and honey producers, which are only a few reasons why the Gulf Islands are the ideal place to feed your body, mind and soul. Maps outlining the many welcoming artists are available for Salt Spring, Galiano, Pender and Gabriola Islands. Come on out and see the artists themselves in action or experience some authentic Island time during one of the many festivals and events such as Gabriola Island’s Thanksgiving Gallery Tour or Salt Spring Island’s Art Craft or one of the many farmers’ markets that run from April through October.


Galiano Island British Columbia

250.539.3388 877.530.3939www.galianoinn.com

www.galianoliving.com

The Art of Relaxation

Salt Spring Island / 9

Seaside at Mouat’s Mall1–104 Fulford-Ganges Rd.

Salt Spring Island V8K 2S31.800.668.6131, 250.537.2421

www.pegasusgallery.ca. See website for hours

See our new shop, Pegasus Gallery Framing at:

www.pegasusframing.com

Specializing in Contemporary and Historical Canadian art and Northwest Coast Arts & Basketry.

PEGASUS GALLERY of CANADIAN ART

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PEGASUS GALLERY of CANADIAN ART

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Argillite Platter with Bone Inlay, Circa 1880, Unknown Haida Artist

Salt Spring IslandSalt Spring Island www.jlcgallery.comwww.jlcgallery.com



Photo by Chrischeadle.com

10 / South Island | Saanichton | Sidney

[email protected]

cell: 250.514.5030

9851 - 1B Seaport PlaceSidney BC V8L 4X3

westcoastwooddesigns.com

DON & DENISE BASTIAN

[email protected]

cell: 250.514.5030

9851 - 1B Seaport PlaceSidney BC V8L 4X3

westcoastwooddesigns.com

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BC’s Premier Wood GalleryFurniture, Doors, Art in all Mediums

250.665.7646

9851 – 1B Seaport PlaceSidney BC V8L 4X3

On Canvas at Sea Cider 2487 Mt. St. Michael Road; Saanichton, BC V8M 1T7; 250.544.4824 www.seacider.ca; www.oncanvasartgallery.com

Art & artisan cider; a perfect pairing. Rotating installations featured in the Mezzanine Gallery, curated by artist Karen Cooper. Open year round for tastings and tours. Come, raise a glass! Wed-Sun 11am-6pm

SOUTH ISLAND

The South Island is the perfect blend of historical opulence and rustic charm. The capital city of Victoria is one of Canada’s most beautiful, rich with fully-restored heritage buildings and bustling Inner Harbour. And there are enough festivals and events in this region to keep you coming back for more! Highlight events include Victoria Highland

Games, JazzFest International, Symphony Splash, Victoria Dragon Boat Festival and the Vancouver Island Blues Bash. Thirty-five minutes south-west of Victoria puts you on the doorstep of the ruggedly wild Sooke to Port Renfrew region, where wildlife is plentiful and creativity flourishes. Sooke is also home of the Sooke Fine Arts Show in early July/late August which showcases both well-known and emerging artists from Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Twenty-five minutes north of Victoria sits the pretty seaside town of Sidney featuring a scenic three kilometre walk along the water front with stunning panoramic ocean views. Along Bea-con Street, and the town’s side streets, explore the fabulous galleries and antique bookstores unique to Sidney. Be sure to visit the many artist stu-dios of Saanich such as Aurelia Jacobsen’s Studio Gallery in neighbouring Brentwood Bay. Close by are The Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site with 55 acres of wonderful floral displays and sculptured gardens, Victoria Butterfly Gardens, and the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre.


Victoria / 11

Take a fascinating journey through the cultural and environmental history of British Columbia. From our interactive Ocean Station to the First Peoples Gallery, we’ll keep you enthralled and entertained.

The Royal BC Museum: Behind the ScenesTo celebrate the International Year of Biodiversity, we turn inside out and reveal the hidden world of our natural history staff. Exhibition opens June 25, 2010

Visit www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca or call 1-888-447-7977Belleville and Government, on Victoria’s Inner Harbour

See all of BC, in an afternoon

12 / Victoria

VICTORIA

A spectacular Inner Harbour, an easily walkable downtown graced with beautifully restored heritage buildings, and superb shopping, dining, and entertainment options make Victoria a world-renowned visitor destina-tion. The city is home to many art galleries and studios, many of which are within walking distance of the downtown core or just a short drive away. While Victoria’s tearooms, hanging flower baskets, and horse-drawn carriages give it a cozy, old-world feel that reflects its European heritage, year-round downtown activity gives the city a youthful energy.

Victoria / 13

606 View St, Victoria BC, [email protected] www.madronagallery.com

An exceptional range of Canadian paintings and sculpture.

Art in the Historic Heart of Victoria– James Bay Art Walk September 11–12 www.jamesbayartwalk.ca

A fantastic weekend surrounded by parks and ocean in VICTORIA’S OLDEST NEIGHBOURHOOD.

The World W

e Wish II, Pyx Sutherland

exhibitions · gallery tours · artist talksgallery shop · asian garden · aggv.ca

We add art to your life.

AGGV_6040_AG182.indd 1 5/4/10 1:42:02 PM

14 / Victoria

WINNER 2009 Critic’s

Spotlight Award Best Professional

Production

The Royal & McPherson Theatres SocietyRoyal Theatre - 805 Broughton St, McPherson Playhouse - 3 Centennial Sq, Victoria, BC; Box Office: 250.386.6121; Mon–Sat 9:30 am–5:30 pm & during performances; www.rmts.bc.ca

The Society operates Capital Region’s two premier performing arts venues, 1434-seat Royal Theatre, and 772-seat McPherson Playhouse.

Victoria | Sooke / 15

South Shore Gallery2046 Otter Point Road PO Box 173; Sooke, BC, V9Z 0P7; www.sooke.org/southshoregallery 250.642.2058; Mon–Sat 10am to 5pm

Original paintings, sculpture, pottery and glass by South Vancouver Island artists.

Robert Louis Chouinard

Exhibit Room III2050 Drennan Street, Sooke, BC, 250.642.7176, Open by appointment or by chance; www.constablematheson.com, [email protected]

Exhibit Room III is the studio/shop of feltmaker Sheila Beech. Located in Sooke’s first police station, the studio is full of bright wool and exotic fibres that are used for Sheila’s innovative designs. The studio has been changed

to a demonstrating / working one. Sheila has worked for the Metropolitan Opera, and Donna Karan in New York. Her work has been sold worldwide.

16 / Chemainus | Duncan

Cathi Jefferson Pottery5656 West Riverbottom Rd., Duncan; 250.737.1463www.cathijefferson.com

Unique salt-fired functional and sculptural stoneware. Each piece is hand decorated with designs from nature. Follow the Artisan signs from Hwy 18 to our Studio and Gallery located on the Cowichan River.

Cowichan is made up of a number of small communities, each with its distinct character and unique activities. Each one is worth taking the time to explore; Chemainus, Ladysmith, Duncan, Lake Cowichan, Youbou, Honeymoon Bay, Mesachie Lake, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay and Shawnigan Lake.

Request your Cowichan Travel Planner at www.tourismcowichan.com or by calling 1.888.303.3337.

The ‘land warmed by the sun’ has also warmed the hearts and minds of many artists who are pleased to call the Cowichan region home. The inspiring colours, landscapes and natural beauty of rolling hills and sweeping ocean vistas have found their way into the area’s visual, performing and culinary arts. The splendid rural setting is ripe with artisans creating award-winning wines, ciders and meads. Ride your bike through the countryside and sample the delectable Cowichan fare as you visit the many vineyards, farms and studios. If you really want to give your vacation some Cowichan flavour, visit during the Blackberry Festival in September, the Cowichan Wine and Culinary Festival in late September/early October or the Salmon and Mushroom Festival in October. The vibrant First Nation’s culture imbues this area, and is reflected throughout the artistic community. From hand-carved masks and totem poles, to native interpretive centres, murals and festivals, the Cowichan region is the perfect place to start your cultural journey.

1.800.565.7738www.chemainustheatrefestival.ca

GalleryTheat the ChemainusTheatre Festival

Over 100 BC artisans

CTF Gallery Ad Bowl 2 (VD Guide):CTF Gallery Ad Bowl 2 (VD Guide)









Photo by Tourism Cowichan

Cobble Hill | Duncan / 17

Merridale Ciderworks, Bistro & Spa1230 Merridale Road, Cobble Hill 250.743.4293 1.800.998.9908, www.merridalecider.com

A destination – Tour the orchard, cellar or distillery. Taste the ciders and brandies. Browse the farm house store for unique art and culinary treats. Savour local fare in the bistro. Relax in the orchard spa and courtyard.

Quw’utsun’ Cultural and Conference Centre200 Cowichan Way, Duncan, BC, V9L 6P4 250.746.8119 / 877.746.8119www.quwutsun.ca

First Nations cultural experience – Open June thru September. Listen to a Cowichan Tour Guide tell you stories passed from generation to

generation, see the Authentic Cowichan Knitters display and purchase hand carved art pieces and jewelry. Try Authentic Native cuisine in the Riverwalk Café- along the banks of the Cowichan River.

Silverside Farm & Winery3810 Cobble Hill Rd, Cobble Hill BC; 250.743.9149 1.877.743.9149, www.silversidefarm.com

We invite you to visit our landmark property, take a tour of our berry plantation, or a guided tour of our winemaking operation before sampling some of our wine. Also check out the work of the area’s artists inside our tasting room.

18 / Cowichan Bay | Ladysmith

Come see my fantastic new gallery and truly inspiring studio!

MARY FOXPOTTERY

Tuesday – Saturday 1-5, or by appointment.321 3rd Avenue, Ladysmith, BC • 250.245.3778 • [email protected]

OldSchool Woodworks & Gallery artisan furniture • fine arts and crafts • home renovations specializing in kitchens

Furniture by Anthony Staub & other Guest Artists

12 Roberts St (at the south entrance to Ladysmith, BC)

250.924.0011

Oldschoolwoodworks.com

Oldschoolwoodworksgallery.com

25th Annual Boat FestivalJune 18–20, 2010; Cowichan Bay Maritime Centrewww.classicboats.org

Entertainment, food, chowder contest, boat building competition and more. Share the history of Canada’s Navy with the HMCS ORIOLE as they celebrate their centennial.

19

VINEYARDS & FINE CUISINEThe mild sea air, rich soil and temperate climate of Vancouver Island all combine to create ideal conditions for growing some of the most unique wines in the world. While the varietals of grapes are similar to those found in the wine centres of Europe, our regional wines are crafted with intense variation. Known as the “Wine Islands,” the Vancouver Island region offers wine connoisseurs an opportunity to taste

both the familiar and eclectic flavours, layered with the experimentation and eccentricities of the area’s wine producers.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of lush emerald meadows and panoramic ocean views, a trip through the Wine Islands is a warm and welcoming tour, offered by passionate vintners eager to tempt the discerning palate.

Perfect pinots are best paired with succulent local cuisine and Vancouver Island delivers. From marionberries to melons, free range beef to brussels sprouts, Vancouver Island is a gourmand’s dream. Community farmers’ markets abound throughout the Island, with wharfside restaurants, and luxurious dining rooms.


Colourful Tibetan prayer flags wave us under a wrought iron arch overgrown with scented

honeysuckle and ahead a high yellow shrine pays ritual tribute to an international mélange of cultures. The blue plastic head of a hippopota-mus peaks from beneath a nearby pond of lily pads, the fish net on hand meant for kids to catch and release the pond’s resident frogs. Winding concrete paths set with gem-like

glass and trinkets are shadowed by a tower-ing mix of West Coast rain forest and

semi-tropical flowers and greenery. Renowned Nanaimo artists Nixie

Barton and Grant Leier have fashioned their whimsical visions into a truly original garden and gallery in the Cedar countryside. The Barton Leier Gallery seemingly worlds away is

just 15 minutes from downtown Nanaimo. Visit their funky new

urban space downtown located on Chapel Street.

Visit www.tourismnanaimo.com to plan your trip or call Toll Free 1.800.663.7337

The Nanaimo Art Gallery’s two locations strive to enhance the

cultural environment of the Nanaimo/Central Island region through exhibitions and outreach programming that encourages active public involvement with the visual arts. The Gallery’s downtown location is in the heart of the arts district and a second location is on the Vancouver Island University campus, well worth the short drive from downtown to tour the visiting exhibitions and enjoy the panoramic view of Nanaimo city and harbour.

20 / Nanaimo

Visit Nanaimo’s historic downtown core for a self-guided art gallery tour that features the beautiful and extraordi-

nary art of many of Vancouver Island’s finest artists. Gallery 223 in a renovated heritage building provides an inspira-tional 10,000 square feet of space to display the artwork of many local artists; upstairs several well-known painters work on-site in their studios.

Continuing downtown, The Artisan’s Studio is a local cooperative where you’ll find quality arts and crafts,

including pottery, woodwork, wall hangings, weaving, original prints, paintings and stained glass. Hill’s Native Art is home to one of North America’s largest collections of Northwest Coast First Nations artwork and the place to go for authentic Cowichan sweaters, Inuit sculptures, masks, totem poles and fine native jewellery.

It‘s amazing what you can do here!

Nanaimo / 21


FRESH exhibits & INTERACTIVE displaysfeaturing the unique LIFESTYLES of NANAIMO

www.nanaimomuseum.ca - 250 753 1821 - 100 Museum Way

Barton Leier Gallery3140 Decourcy Drive, Ladysmith, BC, V9G 1E2 250.722.7140; [email protected]; Hours: Apr–Nov: Thu–Sun, 11am–5pm, Jul & Aug: Everyday, 11am-5pm

Barton and Leier Gallery showcases the work of Nixie Barton and Grant Leier, professional full time artists exhibiting across Canada. Well known for their use of

colour and unusual imagery combinations, the gallery features great art and funky gifts, focusing on experimental works as well as traditional. In addition, Barton and Leier Gallery has just opened a second location in downtown Nanaimo at Church and Chapel, open everday. 250.591.1111.

Campus Location900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo BC, V9R 5S5, Tel: 250 [email protected]

Nanaimo Art Gallery presents:inspiring exhibitions

community and educational events popular festivals

art rental/sales program gift shop

Both locations offer a relaxing atmosphere to view exquisite works of art.

‘Houses, Qualicum Beach, 2000’ by E.J. Hughes

Downtown Location150 Commercial Street, Nanaimo

BC, V9R 5G6, Tel: 250 754-1750 www.nanaimoartgallery.com

Gallery 223223 Commercial Street, Nanaimo, BC 250.741.1188; www.gallery223.ca Mon to Fri, 10–5:30 pm Sat 9:30–5pm, Sun noon–4pm

Fine West Coast, Canadian & European Contemporary Art

Gallery 223 carries an extraordinary selection of original paintings and sculptures by acclaimed Canadian, European and American Artists in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

22 / Nanaimo

Tammy Hudgeon Glassworks1790 Seymour Road, Gabriola Island, BC 250.247.0104; www.tammyhudgeon.com

Award-winning glass art infused with vibrant colour & spirit. Jewelry, bowls, windows, garden art and larger than life glass sculptures.

Sheila NorgateStudio: 2531 Tyee Dr, Gabriola Island BC V0R1X7 250.247.7308; www.sheilanorgate.comOpen by chance or by appointment

Vibrant and distinct acrylics by noted, nationally represented Canadian painter. Original works only. Available in a wide range of sizes.

Gabriola Island

Gabriola Island / 23

24 / Qualicum Beach

BUCHANAN MCLENNAN SCHNEIDERwww.threelayerpainters.com

THREE LAYER PAINTERS

Parksville | Errington | Hornby Island / 25

1-888-808-8849 or 250-248-8189#151A Morison Ave., Parksville, Vancouver Island, [email protected]

W E S T C OA S T O R I G I N A L W O R K S O F A R T

D. F. Gray......pastels of Vancouver Islandopen studio Aug 28 & 29

dfgray.comappt: 250-248-5565

4.375 x 1.3125

open studio August 28 & 29 Errington, BC

Appt: 250.248.5565

dfgray.com

C E N T R A L I S L A ND

If you enjoy seeing art in action, you’ll love the Central Island region’s art and artisan studios – they’re everywhere! Many of the region’s artists have studios that are open to visitors or work at collaborative gallery/studio spaces open to the public.


CENTRAL ISLANDThe Central Island is quickly becoming known as the arts and festival district. If you love seeing artists at work or enjoy the variety of festivals, this region is the place for you. Nanaimo, Parksville and the Qualicum Beach region play host to several festivals throughout the year including the Maple Sugar Festival in February highlighting francophone heritage, the Canadian Open Sand-Sculpting Competition in July and the Bard to Broadway Theatre from late June through August featuring live summer theatre, Island style. With the beautiful scenery found within this region, it’s difficult to ignore the creativity that flourishes. Artists either have studios that are open to visitors or they work at collaborative gallery spaces such as the Oceanside Arts Council and the Station Gallery in Parksville and the Old School House Arts Centre in Qualicum Beach, which are open to the public.

PACIFIC RIMThe Pacific Rim beckons with a plethora of exciting activities that awaken the artist in everyone. Start your journey in the heart of the Alberni Valley where history and antiquities coalesce. Take a ride on a steam powered locomotive and explore the region’s remarkable past at historic lighthouses and lookout points. There are several ways to enjoy the arts in the region and the many festivals are a testament to the creativity and diversity that flourish here. Annual festivals include the Pacific Rim Whale Festival in March, Shorebird Festival in May, Lantern Festival in August, and Alberni Fall Fair in September, and feature gifted artisans from within the community.



Courtenay | Black Creek | Gold River / 27

NORTH CENTRALExperience the adventures of true wilderness in the North Central Island region while maintaining all the comforts of home. The Comox Valley is host to an annual artisan festival at the Filberg Lodge in Comox, Courtenay is the site of the international Vancouver Island MusicFest held annually in July and Cumberland hosts the Big Time Out in August. This region is also built on a foundation of marine and colliery history. Museums in small communities such as Cumberland offer visitors a glimpse into the area’s storied past. Celebrate rivers, fly-fishing and the legacy of writer Roderick Haig-Brown during Campbell River’s Haig-Brown Festival held every year in late September. Quadra Island, a short ferry ride from Campbell River, is an intensely artistic community home to over 120 artists and is the perfect place to view musicians, writers, and painters in their element. During the first weekend of June every year, the community celebrates the Quadra Island Studio Tour, an ideal way to watch artists hone their craft and exhibit their wares.

WaterWorks Garden Sculpture8138 Island Highway, Black Creek, BC 250.337.8417; www.waterworksgardenart.com

Come stroll though our cottage garden/gallery where flowers blend with an array of unique fountains. Douglas Walker creates eclectic garden sculptures using discarded musical instruments and found objects.

Just over the bridge on HWY 28.

250.283.2374

Fresh food, local pottery

COUR TEN AY, BL ACK CREEK , GOLD R I V ER

DiscoverComoxValley.com

3.375” (width) × .9375” (height)

Filberg Festival61 Filberg Road, Comox; www.filbergfestival.com 250.334.9242; July 30 to August 2, 2010

Love Art? Follow your heart to the Filberg! Featuring 4 days of exceptional art and hand made work from up to 140 of Canada’s talented artisans. The 28th annual Filberg Festival takes place on the grounds of historic Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park in Comox. As well as amazing art you will find entertainment for adults and kids and a wide variety of culinary treats ranging from exotic to downright decadent. Daily Admission is charged – No Pets.

Spirits of the West Coast Native Art Gallery2926 Back Road, Comox, BC Open Mon–Sat, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM 1.877.338-2120; www.spiritsofthewestcoast.com

Beautiful Native and Haida Art including a large variety of gold & silver jewellery, masks, carvings & prints.

Paintings by Grant Leier

28 / Comox Valley

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens6183 Whittaker Road, Courtenay 250.338.6901; www.woodlandgardens.ca

24-acre internationally acclaimed woodland wonderland. This unique and beautiful showcase of nature hosts popular summer arts festivals and Christmas events.

Magnolia Gallery & Garden2732 Dunsmuir Avenue, Cumberland 250.336.2000; www.magnoliagallery.ca

Magnolia Gallery & Garden Centre features quality works of art by Island artists—original paintings, sculpture, jewellery, glass & more, with a fabulous garden centre out back.

Blue Moon Estate Winery4905 Darcy Road, Courtenay, BC V9J 1R5 250.338.9765; www.bluemoonwinery.ca

Visit our tasting room and certified organic blueberry farm and discover the refreshingly different taste of wines vinted from valley-grown organic berries and tree fruits.

Check out our Virtual Official Visitors’ Guide, events calendar, escape contests and packages DiscoverComoxValley.com

South Hollow Art Studio & Gallery218 – 5th Street, Courtenay BC 250.334.0221; www.southhollow.caOpen Mon to Sat, 9:30am — 5:30pm

Local images. Local artists. A charming art gallery and working studio featuring a wide range of contemporary pieces including unique leaf imprints and West Coast tiles. Quality handmade papers, inks and related supplies.

adventures in mulBerryLand Gallery/B&B1526 Mulberry Lane, Comox BC V9M 3S4 250.339.3723; www.mulBerryLand.com

Enjoy Seuss-inspired whimsical artwork by Naomi teWinkel while relaxing in mulBerryLand’s private suite, amongst half an acre of beautiful gardens.

Teresa Knight, ArtistBox 146, 5673 Island Hwy., Union Bay, BC, www.teresaknight.com; 250.335.3234

Thoughtful and evocative paintings of local area using intense, beautiful colours, in a soft-focus style. Visit Teresa at work in her quaint Union Bay studio.

28 / Comox Valley Comox Valley / 29

Brian Scott Fine Art8269 North Island Hwy, Black Creek, BC V0R 3B0 250.337.1914; www.brianscottfineart.com

Artist Brian Scott is an original oil painter whose name is inextricably linked to colour – wild and wonderful mixes of fanciful, fun and exciting hues.

L’Association francophone de la vallée de Comox2435B Mansfield Dr, Courtenay, BC V9M 2M2, 250.334.8884; [email protected]

En français... parce que ça m’plait. Le mandat de l’association est de promouvoir la langue et la culture francophones dans la vallée de Comox.





Just Art


















30 / North Island





Just Art























Just Art






















Just Art


















NORTH ISLANDThe North Island region’s prosperous history and First Nation’s culture touches your soul like the pounding of a handmade drum. The tradition and folklore of the district is evident, not only in the way of life of its inhabitants, but in the art they produce as well. Wood carvings are showcased throughout Port Hardy and many of the buildings feature expansive murals. Market Street has many popular artisan shops and galleries exhibiting native masks, jewellery and paintings. Alert Bay, a quaint seaside village, is home to the U’mista Cultural Centre, which features the famed Potlatch Collection of ceremonial regalia. This community prides itself on traditional dance performances, held at the Alert Bay Big House, and also for being home to the world’s largest totem pole. Welcome to Vancouver Island, truly Canada’s paradise on the Pacific!

North Island? / 31

Photo by Boomer JerrittPhoto by Chrischeadle.com


VancouverIslandArts.ca

2010 vancouver island arts & cultural trail guide

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