Artwork Lisa Zhang
Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show Susan Down is managing director of the Cowichan Valley Arts Council.
W
hen things get tough, artists get creative. Arts councils, too. Considering the year we’ve just been through, the Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show promises to be exceptionally creative in 2021. Last year, our gallery was closed due to the pandemic, so the show was online only. This year, the CVFAS will be a hybrid: the work will be hung in the gallery as well as posted online, running May 1-22. The opening celebration and awards announcement will be online but the space is large enough for the public to walk through easily and safely without an appointment. As the largest show of its kind on Vancouver Island, it features work by emerging and renowned artists including painting and sculpture, jewelry design, furniture, photography and more. “This is the show
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everyone looks up to every year, and they prepare for it by creating something special,” said CVAC President Janet Magdanz. “It is a joyous celebration of talent, craftsmanship and community.” The CVFAS accepts art from established and emerging artists and anyone who submits will be included. The only requirements are that the artist be a CVAC member over 16 years old. Our judges then pick Best in Show and other awards. During the exhibit the general public can vote for the People’s Choice Award both online and in person. Registration is scheduled for April 6 – 13. Before CVFAS, we are hosting Awake: Youth Arts Showcase April 10 – 24 featuring work by youth over 13 years old. We have expanded it this year to include short spoken word videos and other performances online. It’s another hybrid! Councilcowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca
