How to explore the arts in the Southern Gulf Islands
The islands have a long history as a place of innovation and creativity. Boasting internationally acclaimed arts and crafts, eccentric studios and tours, and renowned markets, there’s an abundance of originality on display. Whether you’re looking for your own inspiration or you enjoy the beauty of others’ imagination, here’s how you can enjoy arts and culture when you visit the Southern Gulf Islands.
Start En Route
Look for “floating galleries” on BC Ferries when you’re on your way to the islands. Organized and installed by the Southern Gulf Island Arts Council, these mini exhibits display a range of arts and crafts by local artists. Find them on the Queen of Cumberland from Swartz Bay, and the Salish Raven, serving the Tsawwassen route.
On Galiano Island
Visit the Yellowhouse Art Centre for year-round multidisciplinary arts programming, including art classes, workshops, exhibitions, performances, events and an artist-in-residency program.
On Mayne Island
Watch for Arts on Mayne exhibitions and events like Art in the Library, exhibitions in the Agricultural Hall, and the biannual Made on Mayne studio tour where artists, artisans, crafters, growers, and makers welcome visitors at their studios, galleries, roadside stands, and community venues to show their work.
On Pender Island
Attend an event hosted by Ptarmigan Arts. Known for its innovative and inspirational artistic programming, the community not-for-profit coordinates music, theatre, filmmaking, dance, and visual arts activities including the beloved Mosaic Festival. Don’t forget to stop by The Gallery for regular shows.
On Saturna Island
Check out a Group Show coordinated by Art Saturna, a group of local artists collaborating to show their work to visitors, or plan your trip around the studio tour to see photography, textile art, original acrylics, mixed media, watercolours, ceramics and more.
On Salt Spring Island
With many options to choose from, you can’t go wrong with an exhibition or workshop by Salt Spring Arts or a live music, theater, or dance performance at the lovely ArtSpring theatre. For a more intimate experience, take the self-guided Salt Spring Studio Tour to try on some unique jewellery, attend a wine tasting, or watch art come to life at live demonstrations.
