Organizers are planning some new events from a preview for art buyers to an art contest and a Mother’s Day tea as part of the annual Cowichan Valley Fine Art Show, May 5-29, run for more than 50 years in the community.

Right now the deadline for artists looms: registration is March 28 to April 9. REGISTER HERE https://cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca/fine-arts-show/   The show features the work of more than 100 artists. Cash prizes will be awarded for the first time. Jurors this year are sculptor Brent Cooke, portrait artist David Goatley and photographer Doug Clement.

The highlight of the art show season in the region, the show displays outstanding artistic talent in painting, drawing, sculpture, photography and other mediums, all produced in the Cowichan Valley and southern Vancouver Island. All the work is for sale.

The show will be a hybrid against this year: work will be online and also displayed in the CVAC gallery spaces in the Cowichan Community Centre. “The exciting part this year is that we are getting together again,” said CVAC president Janet Magdanz. “That’s why we have added a few new events so artists and art lovers can enjoy a social time amidst the art in the gorgeous gallery setting.”

Tickets are available on the CVAC website: https://cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca/whats-on/  

BUYERS’ PREVIEW: May 4 @ 6 pm – 7 pm- Tickets $20

Get the first look at over 100 pieces of art and the first chance to buy something special. Enjoy music and great food and then stay for the opening and prize-giving starting an hour later. Only 30 tickets available.

OPENING NIGHT: May 4 @ 7 pm – 8:30 pm – Tickets $10

Back together again! Celebrate the region’s fine artists and enjoy some divine food and musical entertainment. See who has won the awards and meet the jurors. This will be a memorable arts event as it is the first fine arts show opening since 2019.

Mother’s Day Tea May 8 @ 2:00 pm -3:30 pm Tickets $5

We are celebrating motherhood at a special event. Sip your tea and nibble on goodies while seated in our Gallery surrounded by outstanding art. Entertainment and door prizes.

Art Attack May 13 @ 7:00 pm -8:30 pm Tickets $10

Blending art and musical performance! Artists will create a painting inspired by live music. Watch it all happen in real time and vote for your favourites. The top two painters of each group will go head to head in a second heat.