Pearl Ellis Gallery

In 1977, a small group of volunteers dedicated to the arts, organized and registered the Comox Arts Society, and opened a one room viewing gallery in Comox. The Gallery was originally funded by a small government grant, but now receives revenue from art commissions, public donations, membership fees, fund-raisers and generous in-kind support from the Town of Comox.

In 1980, the name was changed to Filberg Gallery Association. In 2005 the gallery was renamed after one of its founders to its present name. From the beginning, the object of the organization has been to establish and maintain an arts centre to promote interest in and study of the arts and to provide a location that affords a showcase for local talent. Many student groups in the Comox Valley have their annual shows here and for many budding artists, this is their first experience having their work on public view. Many accomplished local artists find the gallery an excellent place to have a one man show in their home community.

The gallery in Comox is open Tuesday to Saturday from noon – 4 pm, closed on Sundays & Mondays. This access to the public is due to a group of volunteer hosts and hostesses who greet the public, issue receipts for membership payments and sales and who provide information to the visitors. In these busy days, when most of us have precious few minutes to spare, these generous volunteers deserve our sincere gratitude.

In 2007 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the society it was decided to start an annual high school bursary program. Each Spring two deserving graduating students from three Comox Valley high schools receive a bursary of $1,000.00. This bursary is to assist students pursuing a postsecondary program related to visual arts. In addition to the bursary the gallery puts on a three week show dedicated to the art work done by one of the local high schools.

We invite you to drop in to the Gallery. Whether you want to add a special piece to your own collection, purchase a gift, or just enjoy viewing some unique work and visiting with our host/hostess, a few minutes spent here will give your day an extra boost.