Artistic Life on Gabriola Island, BC
Known as “The Isle of the Arts,” Gabriola Island is home to one of the highest concentrations of artists per capita in Canada. Just a short ferry ride from Nanaimo, this Gulf Island is bursting with creativity, offering open studios, galleries, artisan markets, and cultural festivals year-round.
Gabriola’s vibrant arts community reflects the island’s laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. Explore the listings below to connect with arts councils and cultural centres that help make Gabriola Island a haven for artistic expression.
Gabriola Island, situated about 5 kilometres east of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, is renowned for its vibrant arts community and natural beauty. Among the best things to do on Gabriola Island is visiting the Free Spirit Gallery Studio Shop, which showcases local contemporary art and offers classes and workshops for all ages, fostering a creative environment for creating, collecting, and appreciating visual arts.The Opal Jewellery Studio provides fine jewellery crafted by local artisans, offering a unique shopping experience with one-of-a-kind pieces.Prominent artist Tyrrell Clarke, BFA, known for her rich colors and contemporary abstract style, draws inspiration from the West Coast's natural beauty. With a career spanning over four decades, her work is globally collected. Tyrrell also supports the art community by establishing artist-run spaces. Her latest figurative paintings celebrate the divine feminine in nature.Exploring Gabriola’s art scene, with its galleries and artists, is one of the best things to do on Gabriola Island.
Every community has its own unique cultural footprint.
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