SPRING/SUMMER 2025
Music on the Lawn returns this summer!
Royal Soccer Club is ready for the World Cup 2026
Parksville Beach Festival
Fired Up! Contemporary Works in Clay 2025
Oak Bay Collector Car Festival
SMUS Camps
U-JAM Summer Jazz Workshop
This May, coinciding with legendary Canadian artist, educator, and conservationist Robert Bateman’s 95th birthday, comes an extraordinary neverbefore-seen exhibition entitled Confluence: The Bateman Collection at ArtSpring on Salt Spring Island, where he resides.
While Robert is best known for his prolific body of work of highly realistic depictions of wildlife and nature, wife and artistic partner Birgit Bateman is also a venerable and much exhibited photographer. Together, they have been a life force not only in the art world, but in fundraising for and awareness of environmental causes.
Partners in life, in the studio, and in world travels, they have amassed a fascinating private collection of art from fellow artists who inspired the artistry within themselves, as well as cultural artifacts from adventure and advocacy journeys to Africa, Asia, both Poles, and here in the Pacific Northwest.
Hundreds of paintings, prints, sculptures, Indigenous pieces, fine art photography, personal family photos and story-filled artifacts have been meticulously curated and are being moved by hand from the Batemans’ home and storage to ArtSpring’s gallery for the first and only time.
Robert and Birgit’s fine art collection includes works by Arthur Lismer, Gordon Smith, Jack Shadbolt, Robert Motherwell, Ron Kingswood, Bruno Liljefors, Rockwell Kent and many more.
There will be select works by both Birgit and Robert, including his spectacular original “Vancouver Island Elegy,” as well as pieces from members of their artistic family.
From Inuit soapstone carvings and prints by Kenojuak Ashevak
to photos and stories about Jane Goodall; from sketches Robert did while birdwatching with Princess Takamado of Japan to ceremonial bride pots from Nigeria – the exhibition is a personal behind-the-scenes
glimpse of the inspirations and cultural touchstones that represent the Batemans’ life story.
A confluence of creativity, conservation, philanthropy, and most of all, love.
Exhibition at ArtSpring daily May 17-30 | 10am-4pm
100 Jackson Ave Salt Spring Island, BC
Curated by Zoe Zafiris-Casey artspring.ca
As Canada prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the nation's enthusiasm for soccer is reaching unprecedented heights. This global event, set to feature matches in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, offers a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation of soccer enthusiasts. At Royal Soccer Club, we are excited to harness this momentum to enrich our summer day camps and foster a deeper love for the game among Canadian youth.
Established as Canada's largest grassroots summer soccer day camp, Royal Soccer Club has been dedicated to providing children aged 5 to 13 with a fun, engaging, and educational soccer experience. Our programs focus on individual skill development, teamwork, and
building a lifelong passion for soccer.
With over 100 locations across the country, including ones in Victoria offering both full-day and half-day sessions, we make it convenient for families to participate.
The anticipation surrounding the 2026 World Cup presents an unparalleled opportunity to inspire young athletes.
Witnessing world-class talent compete on home soil can ignite a passion for the sport and motivate children to elevate their own skills. At our camps, we aim to channel this excitement by incorporating elements related to the World Cup, such as themed activities and discussions about the tournament's history and significance.
Moreover, the World Cup's emphasis on unity and cultural exchange aligns with our club's values. Soccer serves as a universal language, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds. By participating in our camps, children not only enhance their athletic abilities but also learn important life skills such as respect, inclusivity, and teamwork.
As we approach this monumental event, Royal Soccer Club remains committed to nurturing the next generation of Canadian soccer players. We invite families to join us in celebrating the beautiful game and to take advantage of the unique opportunities that the 2026 World Cup will bring to our communities. Together, we can inspire young athletes to dream big and perhaps one day represent Canada on the world stage.
With the Parksville Outdoor Theatre in full swing, Parksville Beach Festival is back with an incredible lineup of entertainment over five action-packed weeks!
Kicking Off Summer with a Legendary Night
The festival launches with a bang on July 12, featuring an unforgettable opening concert sponsored by Van-Roc Interiors. Rock icons Chilliwack take the stage for their Farewell to Friends Tour, celebrating over 50 years of music. Don’t miss this legendary performance. It’s sure to be a night to remember! Tickets: https://shop.mcmillanartscentre. com/collections/box-office/products/ chilliwack-parksville-outdoor-theatre-saturday-july-12-2025
Tim Hortons “Free” Summer Concert Series
Get ready for live music every Friday and Saturday evening from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM at the Community Park. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and dance the night away on these dates: July 18, 19, 25, 26 & August 1, 2, 15, 16. Full lineup: parksvillebeachfest. ca/event/summer-concert-series
Mid Island Co-op Rock the Park Music Festival | August 8-10
Three nights of high-energy performances featuring: PRiSM | Tom Lavin & the Legendary Powder Blues | Ten Souljers Truly Tina (Tina Turner Tribute) | Barracuda (Heart Tribute) | Eagle Eyes (Eagles Tribute) | Centerfield (John Fogerty / CCR Tribute) and more… Tickets: https://shop.mcmillanartscentre. com/collections/box-office/products/rock-the-park-2025
Daily Live Music with Party City Buskers
Enjoy a mix of Vancouver Island’s best local musicians performing outside the sand sculpture exhibition. Catch them daily from 11 AM – 1 PM and 2 PM – 4 PM between July 14 –August 17.
These are just a few of the family-friendly activities happening at Parksville Beach Festival, home of the world-famous Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition! Parksville Beach Festival runs July 11 through to August 17.
Plan your visit today at www.parksvillebeachfest.ca and see you at the beach!
Get ready for sun, sand, and summer memories at the Parksville Beach Festival, set in the heart of the Parksville Community Park alongside one of Vancouver Island’s most beautiful beaches. The festival kicks off July 10–13 with its world-famous Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition, drawing thirty master sand sculptors from around the globe for a thrilling 30-hour creative showdown.
Sculptors begin preparations or "pound up” on July 10, with the competition opening to the public at 2 PM on July 11. Solo sculptors will work their magic with 10 yards of sand, while doubles teams take on 15 yards to bring this year’s whimsical theme, “Circus by the Sea,” to life.
Once the masterpieces are complete, the Exhibition runs daily from July 14 to August 17, open from 9:30 AM to 8:30 PM. Entry is by suggested donation of $5 per person, with proceeds supporting local non-profits and community initiatives. Since 1999, the Parksville Beach Festival Society has donated $1.2 Million from the gate proceeds.
But the fun doesn’t stop with the sculptures. Festival highlights include:
• Sand Sculpting Lessons & Demos
July 12 & 13, 10 AM–5 PM
Presented by Parksville Canadian Tire, two professional sculptors will be on-site teaching the art of sand sculpting to visitors of all ages. Come get your hands sandy and learn from the best!
• Art in the Park
July 26 (10 AM–5 PM) & July 27 (10 AM–4 PM)
Stroll through a vibrant market of over 60 local artisans and vendors offering handcrafted treasures in a stunning seaside setting.
• Coastal Community Credit Union Sculpture Light-Up
August 15 & 16
Experience the magic of the sculptures after dark! For two nights only, the exhibition stays open until 11 PM, beautifully illuminated for a whole new perspective.
Start planning your summer adventure now at www. parksvillebeachfest.ca/ We can’t wait to see you at the beach!
COMPETI TION Jul 10 −13 Gates open to the public Jul 11 at 2pm
... Jul 14 −Aug 17
WEEKEND
T ... Jul 12 featuringChilliwack ‘Farewell to Friends Tour’2025
AN TIRE LEARN TO SCULPT... Jul 12 &13
The Honourable Wendy Cocchia, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, invites music lovers to the Government House bandshell for three nights of FREE concerts in July. Grab dinner or a treat from the onsite food vendors or pack a picnic, and bring your own chair or blankets. Dancing is highly recommended! Concerts take place rain or shine.
• Concerts take place at 1401 Rockland Ave, at the Government House Bandshell, located just above the Cary Castle Mews near the orchard
• Outside food is welcome, but no alcohol please.
• Bring Your Own Chairs and Blankets – there’s lots of room for everyone, but come early if you want to be close to the stage. Seating is on an open lawn, so bring hats for sun and cover in case of rain.
• There are outside washrooms available onsite.
• These events are popular and onsite parking is limited. Government House can be reached via a 20-minute walk or five-minute drive from downtown. Buses on Victoria Regional Transit routes 11 and 14 stop on Fort Street at Joan Crescent, three blocks from Government House.
• Transit by bicycle is welcome! Due to the popularity of these events, bike rack space may be limited, but bikes may be stored along the perimeter fence surrounding the concert space.
• Well behaved, on-leash furry friends are welcome.
Experience the Best of Local Art at the Mary Winspear Centre
Welcome to the 72nd Annual Saanich Peninsula Arts and Craft Society (SPAC) Spring Show Exhibition and Sale, a vibrant celebration of creativity and craftsmanship at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney, BC. This year, the event promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring an astonishing array of over 2000 artworks from SPAC members.
Join us on Saturday, April 26 from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, April 27 from 10 am to 4 pm. Tickets are just $10 at the door,
giving you access to a world of artistic wonder spread across three galleries plus a dedicated gift shop.
Immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of floral displays, pottery, jewellery, paintings, and sculptures. Marvel at the intricate designs of fiber art and the exquisite craftsmanship of woodworks. This extraordinary exhibition showcases the incredible talent and creativity of our local artists.
Don't miss the chance to see the standout pieces designated as “Juror’s Choice” and cast your vote for your favorite artwork with the Viewer’s Choice Ballots.
With 15 door prizes up for grabs, every visitor has a chance to take home something special.
This year’s SPAC Spring Show Exhibition and Sale is not just an event; it’s an experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a collector, or simply looking for a delightful day out, there’s something for everyone. Visit the gift shop for smaller items and keepsakes that capture the essence of the exhibition.
Mark your calendars and join us at the Mary Winspear Centre for a celebration of art, creativity, and community. We look forward to seeing you there!
The annual Fired Up!
-Contemporary Works in Clay event is a highlight of the Canadian ceramics art scene. This year the theme is “Atmospheric” -exploring all aspects of atmospheric firing methods: reduction gas, wood, salt and soda, pit and barrel smoke firing, saggar, raku and obvara. Contemporary atmospheric firing techniques yield remarkable surface effects; vibrant and exciting designs and textures are imprinted on clay forms by dancing flames and drafts carrying ash and fumes from combustibles
such as salt, soda, coal, gas, wood, sawdust, leaves, grass, straw, and other organics. Because these are burning, a reduction environment is created which starves the atmosphere of oxygen. This allows these fumes to interact with the glaze and oxides leaving chemical changes, carbon tracings and ash deposits on the porous surfaces of the ware. The magic of atmospheric firing is that it elicits varying responses depending on the chemical compounds within the combustibles and their interplay with heat, reduction, oxidation, time and the placement in the kiln. Each piece is unique and though there are some broad practices for encouraging certain effects, the results are largely random and unreproducible. It is true alchemy, and in no other ceramic process is there a greater collaboration between the clay, the atmospheric conditions and the artist in achieving these one-of-akind results.
For more information, Please follow Fired Up! On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FiredUpWorksInClay/ and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firedupworksinclay/ and visit their website: https://www.firedup.ca
The 26th Annual Oak Bay Collector car Festival will be held again on Sunday, July 13 in the village of Oak Bay. This community show regularly welcomes over 300 vehicles of all ages and origins, grouped together by categories. Over 10,000 spectators are expected to attend, and there will be a BBQ and food trucks set up behind Oak Bay Municipal Hall. Car clubs and groups are asked to email the organizers at oakbayccf@gmail. com, and all interested parties wanting to register their vehicle or to volunteer are asked to do so at oakbaycarshow.ca. Space is limited, so day-of event drive-ups may not find a spot available.
As the school year winds down, SMUS Camps is excited to launch another summer of unforgettable experiences, with both day and overnight offerings for 2025.
Our ever-popular SMUS Basketball Camps continue to prioritize fun, skill development, and individualized coaching, thanks to a high coach-to-player ratio. New this summer is an overnight basketball option, offering the full boarding experience with specialized coaching and training. Spots are limited and filling fast.
Beyond sports, we have our two-week Engineering and Video Game Development camps for teens wanting to take a deeper dive into the content and experience life on campus.
New this summer is our Rising Leaders Camp, designed to help youth build confidence, communication skills, and leadership through fun, handson challenges. Campers from around the world form lasting friendships while exploring their potential in an inclusive and inspiring environment.
For younger campers, we are continuing to offer programs at our Oak Bay-based Junior School campus. This ideal setting
provides the perfect home for camps like:
• Creative Minds and Movers Camp (ages 3-4)
• Discovery Camp (ages 5-6)
• Adventure Camp (ages 7-9)
SMUS Camps are open to all, and registration is now live!
For a full list of our 2025 summer programs, check out our Summer Camp Calendar.
Learn more about our camps at two locations at smus.ca/camps
Calling all musicians - plan to join U-JAM for their 7th annual summer camp - a whole week of inspired musicmaking and fun!
The camp is designed to help students of all ages and skill levels gain instrumental/vocal experience. Musicians of all stripes can apply – woodwinds, brass, strings, keyboards, vocalists, guitarists, bassists, and drummers. The workshop will allow students to make music together in small and large ensembles and improve their knowledge and skills, including improvising, ear training, musical literacy, song writing, and jamming with others.
Campers are divided by interests and abilities to create a stimulating program for all instruments. The interplay of combining musicians of all ages gives all a chance to learn from different experiences and perspectives. Classes include a special track for vocalists and keyboardists, plus masterclasses, performances, jam sessions, and more. Play or sing in a band, meet other musicians, make music, and generally have fun. A special evening concert series includes a nightly jam session with the pros.
The camp cost is $649 for the week including all classes, sessions, and evening
tickets. A $50 credit is offered for registration before June 1st. Bursaries and scholarships are also available for deserving students. For busy folks, a half day program plus a “Day Camper” option provides flexibility.
Attendance is limited so sign up today – a $100 refundable deposit will hold your spot. Visit www.ujam.ca for more information and registration.
U-JAM is a registered not-forprofit society founded in 2006 to support and encourage musicians and music lovers who enjoy jazz and its many derivatives, including rock, blues, Latin, swing, and many other improvised musical styles.
