Vancouver Island Arts & Cultural Trail Guide

Canada

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26 Central Island

Map of Vancouver Island

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Island Art

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Canada 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

VANCOUVER ISL AND

WELCOME TO VANCOUVER ISLAND 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.

Heritage & Culture Discovering 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.

4 / Vancouver Island

VANCOUVER ISL AND

Photography by Boomer Jerritt

LEGEND Ferry Route

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Brentwood Bay

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

Photo by Boomer Jerritt

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For more information call 1.888.655.3483 www.VancouverIslandArts.ca 5

Photography by Boomer Jerritt

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.

Photography by Tourism Vancouver Island

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Island Art

Maybe 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

finest quality Canadian diamonds. Many of the painters and sculptors that live and work in the Vancouver Island region are worldrenowned, 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 WORLDRENOWNED. YOU CAN SEE THEIR WORK IN EXCLUSIVE GALLERIES AND, IN SOME CASES, MEET THE ARTISTS THEMSELVES.

Photo by Boomer Jerritt

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Photo by Boomer Jerritt

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.

The Art of Relaxation

Galiano Island British Columbia

250.539.3388 877.530.3939 www.galianoinn.com www.galianoliving.com 8 / Gulf Islands

| Galiano Island

Photo by Chrischeadle.com

Jill Louise Campbell FINE ART

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Salt Spring Island

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

Seaside at Mouat’s Mall

1–104 Fulford-Ganges Rd.

Salt Spring Island V8K 2S3

1.800.668.6131, 250.537.2421 www.pegasusgallery.ca.

See website for hours

See our new shop, Pegasus

Gallery Framing at:

www.pegasusframing.com

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

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Salt Spring Island 9

Photography by Boomer Jerritt

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 southwest 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 Beacon Street, and the town’s side streets, explore the fabulous galleries and antique bookstores unique to Sidney. Be sure to visit the many artist studios 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.

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

DON & DENISE BASTIAN BC’swooddesigns@shaw.ca Premier Wood Gallery

9851 – 1B Place 9851 - 1BSeaport Seaport Place Sidney BC V8L 4X3 Sidney BC V8L 4X3

Sidney | Saanichton | westcoastwooddesigns.com

DON & D

DON DON woodd & DE 25 w woodde cell 250 cell: -2 9851 Sidne 9851 - 98 1 Sidney

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10 / South Island

Furniture, Doors, Art in all Mediums 250.665.7646 250.665.7646 cell: 250.514.5030

See all of BC, in an afternoon 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 Scenes To 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 1-888-447-7977 Belleville and Government, on Victoria’s Inner Harbour

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Victoria 11

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 destination. 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 horsedrawn carriages give it a cozy, old-world feel that reflects its European heritage, year-round downtown activity gives the city a youthful energy.

12 / 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 We Wish II, Pyx Sutherland

Art in the Historic Heart of Victoria–

606 View St, Victoria BC, 250.388.4660 info@madronagallery.com www.madronagallery.com An exceptional range of Canadian paintings and sculpture.

We add art to your life.

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

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WINNER

2009 Critic’s Spotlight Award Best Professional Production

The Royal & McPherson Theatres Society Royal 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.

14 / Victoria

South Shore Gallery 2046 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 III 2050 Drennan Street, Sooke, BC, 250.642.7176, Open by appointment or by chance; www.constablematheson.com, stay@constablematheson.com 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.

Victoria

| Sooke / 15

Photo by Tourism Cowichan

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, toBowl native centres, muralsGallery and festivals, theBowl Cowichan F Gallery Ad 22 (VD Ad 22 (VD GuG CTF Gallery Ad Bowlinterpretive (VD Guide):CTF Guide):CTF Gallery Ad Bowl (VD CTF region is the perfect place to start your cultural journey.

Over100 100BC BC artisans artisans Over

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the Chemainus Chemainus atatthe Theatre Festival Festival Theatre

1.800.565.7738 1.800.565.7738

www.chemainustheatrefestival.ca www.chemainustheatrefestival.ca Cathi Jefferson Pottery 5656 West Riverbottom Rd., Duncan; 250.737.1463 www.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.

16 / Chemainus

| Duncan

Silverside Farm & Winery 3810 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.

Merridale Ciderworks, Bistro & Spa 1230 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 Centre 200 Cowichan Way, Duncan, BC, V9L 6P4 250.746.8119 / 877.746.8119 www.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.

| Duncan / 17

Cobble Hill

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 Festival June 18–20, 2010; Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre www.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.

Come see my fantastic new gallery and truly inspiring studio!

MARY FOX

POTTERY

Tuesday – Saturday 1-5, or by appointment.

321 3rd Avenue, Ladysmith, BC • 250.245.3778 • maryfox@shaw.ca

18 / Cowichan Bay

| Ladysmith

VINEYARDS & FINE CUISINE The 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 Photo by Boomer Jerritt 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.

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

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olourful 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 hippopotamus 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 towering 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.

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he 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.

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Nanaimo

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isit Nanaimo’s historic downtown core for a self-guided art gallery tour that features the beautiful and extraordinary art of many of Vancouver Island’s finest artists. Gallery 223 in a renovated heritage building provides an inspirational 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.

Photo by Chrischeadle.com

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ontinuing 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.

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Nanaimo 21

FRESH exhibits & INTERACTIVE displays featuring the unique LIFESTYLES of NANAIMO

www.nanaimomuseum.ca

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250 753 1821 - 100 Museum Way

Barton Leier Gallery 3140 Decourcy Drive, Ladysmith, BC, V9G 1E2 250.722.7140; bartonleiergallery@shaw.ca www.bartonandleiergallery.com; 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 Location 900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo BC, V9R 5S5, Tel: 250 740-6350 info@nanaimogallery.ca

Downtown Location 150 Commercial Street, Nanaimo BC, V9R 5G6, Tel: 250 754-1750 www.nanaimoartgallery.com

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.

Gallery 223 223 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.

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Nanaimo

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

G abriola Island Sheila Norgate Studio: 2531 Tyee Dr, Gabriola Island BC V0R1X7 250.247.7308; www.sheilanorgate.com Open 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.

Tammy Hudgeon Glassworks 1790 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.

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Gabriola Island 23

THREE LAYER PAINTERS BUCHANAN

MCLENNAN

SCHNEIDER

www.threelayerpainters.com

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Qualicum Beach

CENTR AL ISL AND

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.

Photo by Chrischeadle.com

W E S T C OA S T ORIGINAL WORKS OF ART

4.375 1-888-808-8849 x 1.3125 or 250-248-8189 #151A Morison Ave., Parksville, Vancouver Island, BC majorandmonkart@shaw.ca www.majorandmonkart.com

D. F. Gray......pastels of Vancouver Island

open 28&&29 29 openstudio studioAugust Aug 28 Errington, BC appt: 250-248-5565 Appt: 250.248.5565

dfgray.com dfgray.com

| Errington | Hornby Island / 25

Parksville

Photography by Boomer Jerritt

CENTRAL ISLAND The 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 RIM The 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.

Photo by Boomer Jerritt

NORTH CENTRAL Experience 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 HaigBrown 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.

C O U R T E N AY, B L A C K C R E E K , G O L D R I V E R

WaterWorks Garden Sculpture 8138 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

| Black Creek | Gold River / 27

Courtenay

DiscoverComoxValley.com Filberg Festival 61 Filberg Road, Comox; www.filbergfestival.com 250.334.9242; July 30 to August 2, 2010

Paintings by Grant Leier

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 Gallery 2926 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.

Magnolia Gallery & Garden 2732 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.

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens 6183 Whittaker Road, Courtenay 250.338.6901; www.woodlandgardens.ca 3.375” (width) × .9375” (height) 24-acre internationally acclaimed woodland wonderland.

This unique and beautiful showcase of nature hosts popular summer arts festivals and Christmas events.

Blue Moon Estate Winery 4905 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.

28 / Comox Valley

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

South Hollow Art Studio & Gallery 218 – 5th Street, Courtenay BC 250.334.0221; www.southhollow.ca Open 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.

L’Association francophone de la vallée de Comox 2435B Mansfield Dr, Courtenay, BC V9M 2M2, 250.334.8884; afvcbc@telus.net 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.

adventures in mulBerryLand Gallery/B&B 1526 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, Artist Box 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.

Brian Scott Fine Art 8269 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.

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Comox Valley 29

Escape into

nature.

www.vancouverislandnorth.ca Culture Shock Interactive Gallery Aboriginally owned and operated.

Create lasting memories with a ‘Namg gis Roots Experience. Also featuring ‘Namg gis inspired clothing, jewelry and gifts.

Phone: 250-974-2484 010A Front Street, Alert Bay, BC www.cultureshockgallery.ca

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 giftware in the Book Nook 7135 Market Street, Port Hardy Café & Books: 250-949-9808 Gallery: 250-949-2650

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 McNeill Phone: 250-956-4908

Yvonne Maximchuk

SeaRose Studio

Painter, Potter, Instructor, Naturalist

30 / North Island

Echo Bay, Simoom Sound, BC, V0P 1S0 www.searosestudio.net • P: 250-974-8134 searosestudio@hotmail.com

U’mista Cultural Centre The centre houses the renowned Potlatch Collection and other traditional and contemporary artifacts. Our gift shop offers fine carvings and local, traditional arts & crafts.

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

Photo by Boomer Jerritt

NORTH ISLAND The 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!

Photo by Chrischeadle.com

Photo by Boomer Jerritt

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