Comox Valley Art Gallery
580 Duncan Ave V9N 2M7 Courtenay, BC, Canada

REMINDER -- the Gallery and SHOP:MADE are closed this week for maintenance and installation. Some of the work underway at the Gallery these days is the replacement of our ancient elevator! (See the photo.) SHOP:MADE will be back in action starting Thursday, March 11, and will be back at regular COVID hours of Thursday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. The next interior presentation in the Gallery will open March 25, as part of the convergent program LABOUR. But artwork can be viewed now from the exterior of the Gallery -- check our website for details.

Our virtual film series is underway! Check out details in the Comox Valley Record. There's still time to purchase tickets for "First Cow", the first film in the series.

The gallery is closed this week, while the CVAG team prepares work by George Sawchuk to be available in SHOP:MADE. A new exhibition opens March 25. Before then you are invited to check out the windows of the gallery to see and hear Offsite:Onsite projects on the outside looking in. visit https://www.comoxvalleyartgallery.com

The virtual launch of our digital publication "Space Between Us" is just getting started! Click this link to join us: https://zoom.us/j/97380190230#success

Today's the day! Join us at 1pm with the "Space Between Us" creatives to celebrate the launch of our interactive digital publication. Join this virtual event by clicking the link a few minutes before it starts: https://zoom.us/j/97380190230#success

Check out this powerful stop-motion animation by our current artists-in-residence Patrick Dionne and Miki Gingras. This piece was developed alongside their photomural in the CVAG Window Gallery, as part of our "Walk With Me" program. For more information, visit www.culturalmapping.ca or check out @patmiki_art to see more of their work.

Join us on the Gallery Plaza this Saturday, at 7pm for an outdoor screening of works created through the Gallery's Youth Media Project (YMP). You will also get a chance to hear from the YMP filmmakers, expressing their truth about the overdose crisis, and bringing to light the ways in which it is uniquely impacting young people. Dress for the weather; COVID protocols will be followed. Curated by Kyle Little. Presented as part of our 'Walk With Me' program - visit www.culturalmapping.ca for more info

Tomorrow at noon, we welcome you to come sit around the fire on the Gallery Plaza, as 'Walk With Me' participants and resident-artists Patrick Dionne and Miki Gingras unveil the piece they’ve developed for the CVAG Window Gallery. They will discuss their process, bringing people together to tell and listen to stories, testimonials and unofficial anecdotes, honouring them through creative practice. For more information, visit www.culturalmapping.ca

Check out this video by the folks over at Island Health highlighting our current arts-based research program: Walk With Me. This project has been funded in part by their Community Wellness Grant Program. For more information visit www.culturalmapping.ca

Today and Friday are you last chances to experience (or re-experience) the powerful exhibition "Time of Things: the continuum of Indigenous customary practice into contemporary art". We are open until 7pm this evening (Wednesday), and from 1 to 6pm on Friday. Remember that SHOP:MADE is now open, so when you visit the exhibition you will also have a chance to view and purchase work created by dozens of makers from the region. After "Time of Things" closes on Friday, SHOP:MADE will continue to be open from 10am to 5pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Marika Echachis Swan Deep In Our Bones, 2014 giclee print (framed) 21.5" x 27.5" Today we are open until 4pm. This work is part of the exhibition "The Time of Things" that runs until Sept. 11. Come check out SHOP:MADE, our selection of locally made, high quality and carefully crafted items includes pottery, glass, jewellery, wood, toys, fibre, art cards, printed matter and CVAG publications. ... Masks will be required (bring your own or use one we provide), and gloves if you want to handle any of the items. We will limit the number of people in the shop to two individuals are one bubble of up to four people. Our COVID hours of operation are Wednesdays from noon to 7pm, Fridays from 1 to 6pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.

Monday was a moving, powerful day on the Comox Valley Art Gallery plaza as mulitiple groups from our community gathered to mark International Overdose Awareness Day. Here is some video from that event. CVAG will exploring this topic deeply in our upcoming program "Walk with Me: Traversing the human dimensions of the overdose crisis; seeking justice, hope and transformation", which will run from Sept. 30 to Nov. 21. Stay tuned for details.

Daphne Boyer Hemoglobin, 2018, weaving of staged and photographed cranberries approximately 84" x 45" This work is part of the exhibition "The Time of Things" that runs until Sept. 11. We are open today until 6pm. Come check out SHOP:MADE, our selection of locally made, high quality and carefully crafted items includes pottery, glass, jewellery, wood, toys, fibre, art cards, printed matter and CVAG publications. ... Masks will be required (bring your own or use one we provide), and gloves if you want to handle any of the items. We will limit the number of people in the shop to two individuals are one bubble of up to four people. Our COVID hours of operation are Wednesdays from noon to 7pm, Fridays from 1 to 6pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.

Reminder that the Comox Valley Art Gallery is open until 7pm today, which is also how late the #downtowncourtenay summer night market is open. Our SHOP:MADE is also open, so this is a great chance to come downtown, see a powerful art exhibition at CVAG, and buy locally-produced food and well-made things. This is the last night of this years summer market, so dont miss it. https://downtowncourtenay.com//downtown-courtenay-summer-/

FILM SERIES UPDATE: We are really disappointed we were unable to re-schedule the final four films of the CVAG 2020 winter/spring film series, which were cancelled due to COVID-19. We are now offering refunds for any unused tickets or passes. Given the importance of the film series as a fundraiser for CVAG, we are also offering people the opportunity to convert the value of their unused tickets into a donation to the Gallery. We can provide a charitable tax receipt for any con...tributions worth $30 or more. Here is the process -- bring your unused tickets or passes to the Gallery (during our open hours) or send us a photo of them by e-mail to [email protected]. Let us know whether you purchased the tickets at the members price or the regular price, and if you would like a refund, or to make a donation. Leave us your name and mailing address, and we will send you a cheque, or a tax receipt as appropriate. Dont forget the Gallerys COVID hours of operation. Until Sept. 11 were open Wednesdays from noon to 7pm, Fridays from 1 to 6pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.

Were really pleased that SHOP:MADE will re-open today. Come by and experience the powerful exhibition "The Time of Things" and browse the shop while youre here. Were open from noon to 7pm. Today is also the last day of the Downtown Courtenay Summer Street Market, which runs from 4 to 7pm at the corner of England and 5th. You can make it full #downtowncourtenay experience -- art, locally-produced food, and well-made things by local makers.

Our latest e-news is out, with details about the re-opening of SHOP:MADE, the exhibition "The Time of Things," update on our film series, and upcoming programming this September.

Great news, SHOP:MADE is re-opening tomorrow. Our selection of locally made, high quality and carefully crafted items includes pottery, glass, jewellery, wood, toys, fibre, art cards, printed matter and CVAG publications. Masks will be required, and gloves if you want to handle any of the items. We will limit the number of people in the shop to two individuals are one bubble of up to four people. Shop hours will match the opening hours of the exhibition "The Time of Things":... Wednesdays from noon to 7pm, Fridays from 1 to 6pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Remember, "The Time of Things" closes Sept. 11, so come by soon to visit (or revisit) this powerful exhibition, and you check out SHOP:MADE while youre here.

We are open today until 4pm. "The Time of Things" runs until Sept. 11. Our COVID hours of operation are Wednesdays from noon to 7pm, Fridays from 1 to 6pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Masks are required (bring your own or use one we provide). We can also arrange small group visits by appointment. Please call 250.338.6211 or send an e-mail to [email protected] to make arrangements. From artist Maureen Gruben Stitching My Landscape, 2017 digital photograph: Kyra Kordoski.

Hi there, folks. We are open for a little bit longer until 6pm today. Feel free to stop on by before close. But dont fret if you feel rushed to see our wonderful exhibition, The Time of Things, we are open again tomorrow on Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

We are open today from 1 to 6pm, and tomorrow from 10am to 4pm. Come and see the powerful exhibition "The Time of Things: The Continuum of Indigenous Customary Practice into Contemporary Art". Guest curated by France Trpanier, "The Time of Things" features the work of five women from various nations and backgrounds: Daphne Boyer, Maureen Gruben, Susan Pavel, Skeena Reece and Marika Echachis Swan. Our COVID hours of operation are Wednesdays from noon to 7pm, Fridays from 1 to... 6pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Masks are required (bring your own or use one we provide). We can also arrange small group visits by appointment. Please call 250.338.6211 or send an e-mail to [email protected] to make arrangements. "The Time of Things" runs until Sept. 11. Photos by Alun Macunulty.

Hey everyone! The art gallery is open and ready for you to come on in and see the latest exhibition: The Time of Things. We are open today from 12:00 pm to 7:00pm. Welcome!

Check out the exhibition "Time of Things" at the Comox Valley Art Gallery. Were open today from noon to 7pm. While youre downtown, you can also visit the summer street market at the corner of 5th and England from 4 to 7pm. #downtowncourtenay. https://downtowncourtenay.com//downtown-courtenay-summer-/

Andy Everson now has an entry in Wikipedia. His stunning work "Crossroads" was installed on the Comox Valley Art Gallery plaza earlier this year.

We are open today until 6 PM, come see the "Time of Things: The Continuum of Indigenous Customary Practice into Contemporary Art." The exhibition is open three days a week: Wednesday from noon to 7pm Friday from 1 to 6pm... Saturday from 10am to 4pm You can also book special visits for small groups. Send an e-mail to: [email protected] We are working to keep everyone safe by requiring visitors to wear masks, sanitize their hands, and maintain social distancing. Looking forward to your visit!

Today the Comox Valley Art Gallery is open, from 1pm to 6pm. Check out the video statement by Marika Echachis Swan, one of the five artists featured in the "Time of Things" exhibition. The exhibition is open three days a week: Wednesday from noon to 7pm Friday from 1 to 6pm... Saturday from 10am to 4pm We are working to keep everyone safe by requiring visitors to wear masks, sanitize their hands, and maintain social distancing. We look forward to your visit! https://vimeo.com/427551578/4d2e03a4c4

The Comox Valley Art Gallery is open again today, Wednesday, from noon to 7pm. Check out the video statement by Susan Pavel, one on the five artists featured in the "Time of Things" exhibition. Wednesday evening is special in #downtowncourtenay. The Comox Valley Farmers Market / Downtown Courtenay Summer Street Markets is open from 4-7pm at the corner of 5th and England. Come and see this powerful exhibition and then check out fine local food and goods at the market just two blocks away.

CVAG is open today from 10am to 4pm. "Time of Things: The Continuum of Indigenous Customary Practice into Contemporary Art" is a powerful exhibition. Check out this video by one of the five artists, Maureen Gruben. The exhibition is open three days a week: Wednesday from noon to 7pm Friday from 1 to 6pm Saturday from 10am to 4pm... You can also book special visits for small groups. Send an e-mail to: [email protected] We are working to keep everyone safe by requiring visitors to wear masks, sanitize their hands, and maintain social distancing. We look forward to your visit! https://vimeo.com/427555342/58bb268bdf

CVAG is open today from 1-6pm. "Time of Things: The Continuum of Indigenous Customary Practice into Contemporary Art" is a powerful exhibition. Check out this video by one of the five artists, Daphne Boyer. The exhibition is open three days a week: Wednesday from noon to 7pm Friday from 1 to 6pm... Saturday from 10am to 4pm You can also book special visits for small groups. Send an e-mail to: [email protected] We are working to keep everyone safe by requiring visitors to wear masks, sanitize their hands, and maintain social distancing. Weve been open for a few weeks now, and things have gone very smoothly.

On Saturday the Comox Valley Art Gallery was open to the public for the first time in almost four months. Finally, people had another chance to see "Time of Things" in person. The exhibition was open for only one day in March before everything closed down! Saturday went very smoothly -- visitors wore masks, sanitized their hands, kept their distance and enjoyed this breathtaking exhibition of Indigenous work by five women artists, curated by France Trpanier. We are now open every Wednesday from noon to 7pm, Friday from 1 to 6pm, and Saturday from 10am to 4pm. You can also contact us to book special appointments for small groups by sending an e-mail to [email protected]

Today we are open for the first time in almost four months! Drop by the Comox Valley Art Gallery any time until 4pm. We supply masks and hand sanitizer. Check the article in TideChange.

The Comox Valley Record is carrying a story on our re-opening that starts tomorrow (Saturday). People are invited from 10am to 4pm. to see "Time of Things", featuring Indigenous work by five women artists. Your safety is our top priority: masks, physical distancing, and using hand sanitizer will be required. (We supply masks and sanitizer if you dont have your own). After Saturday well have regular part-time hours -- details in the story. ... Below is a photo from the exhibition. "Gestation" is a work by Inuvialuit artist Maureen Gruben. Photograph by Alun Macanulty.

Our latest e-news is out, with details on Saturdays re-opening of the exhibition "Time of Things". Read on for details.

Great news! The Comox Valley Art Gallery is reopening starting Saturday July 11. The City of Courtenay has lifted the closure of its cultural facilities and well be open starting Saturday, July 11, from 10 to 4pm. The powerful exhibition "Time of Things" (which was only open for one day in March before everything closed down) will be here until Sept. 11. "The Time of Things: The Continuum of Indigenous Customary Practice into Contemporary Art" is guest curated by visual art...ist, researcher and curator France Trpanier. It features work by artists Daphne Boyer, Maureen Gruben, Susan Pavel, Skeena Reece and Maika Echachis Swan. Our plan is to keep part time hours for now. After July 11 well be open Wednesdays from noon to 7pm, Fridays from 1pm to 6pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. You can also book appointments for small groups by contacting us at [email protected] or calling 250.338.6211. Please check our website for updates. Masks, disinfecting your hands, and maintaining 2 meters distance will be required. Our staff will greet you at the door to make sure we dont exceed capacity for staying safe. Below is a photo from the exhibition. "Gestation" is a work by Inuvialuit artist Maureen Gruben. Photopraph by Alun Macanulty.

Here is another photo from yesterdays blessing of the harvesting of plans from the traditional Indigenous Tea Garden on the CVAG plaza. Thanks to Colby ONeill for the photo.

Today Kmoks Elder Barb Whyte and Kmoks First Nation Chief Nicole Rempel blessed the harvesting of plants gathered from the Traditional Indigenous Garden on the CVAG plaza. Elder Barb Whyte has guided the planting and expansion of the Garden since 2018. She notes that these traditional plants help strengthen the bodys immune system. Todays event was kept small, in light of Covid, but it was powerful and moving. Stay tuned for a full Facebook album and video. We have bee...n honoured and privileged to work with the Kmoks First Nation on transforming our plaza with Welcome Poles, public artwork, and the tradition garden. We acknowledge that we are located upon the Unceded Traditional Territory of the Kmoks First Nation, and we recognize the enduring presence of First Nations people on this land. Photos by Cassidy Gehmlich.

On this National Indigenous Peoples Day, The Comox Valley Art Gallery acknowledges that we are located upon the Unceded Traditional Territory of the Kmoks First Nation. We recognize the enduring presence of First Nations people on this land, and we are honoured to work with Indigenous artists, Elders and community members from Kmoks and beyond. We are looking forward to gradually re-opening so that people can see "The Time of Things", a powerful exhibition guest curated b...y France Trpanier and featuring the work of five Indigenous women artists. (Stay tuned for details as we work with the City of Courtenay to re-open in July). We are also proceeding to build on "Public Space: Sacred Space" -- a large project that includes the installation of two Welcome Poles on the CVAG plaza, a traditional Indigenous Garden, and the public artwork "Crossroads". Click the link below for information and beautiful images related to "Public Space: Sacred Place" https://www.comoxvalleyartgallery.com//public-place_sacred See more

As part of being In Process While Apart, we are excited to share through upcoming posts what weve been up to during this covid time. Currently documentary filmmakers and interactive creators, Josephine Anderson & Claire Sanford, are in-residence at CVAG Next Door, while they continue to develop their collaborative project "Rock People"; an interactive virtual reality documentary using stereoscopic 360-degree video, ambisonic sound design, and animation. Check out their project further: https://www.comoxvalleyartgallery.com//project-room-studio/

A few days ago members of the CVAG staff team visited the home of Pat Helps, the loving partner of the late George Sawchuk. George created a magnificent "Forest Gallery" in the woods adjacent to his home. Since his death in 2012, the artwork is slowly decaying and returning to the forest, but the pieces that still stand continue to be powerful and poignant. The extensive collection of his "portables" in the outbuildings of Pats home are in excellent condition, and so are the... pieces that are installed in the garden of her home. Photos of our visit were taken by Alun Macanulty. George was always a strong supporter of the Comox Valley Art Gallery. One our presentation spaces is named the George Sawchuk Room. In 2014 the Gallery exhibited a retrospective of his work. For details, visit our website: https://www.comoxvalleyartgallery.com//the-book-of-george/

In case you missed it, Tide Change carried an article about the installation of "Crossroads", the new public artwork on the CVAG plaza created by Komoks artist Andy Everson.

#CultureDoesntStop. The Comox Valley Art Gallery teamed up with the community arts council (CVArts), the Sid Williams Theatre, and the Courtenay Museum to issue a joint statement on the critical importance of arts and culture in times like these. Read the article in the Comox Valley Record. Thanks to the Sid Williams Theatre for putting the sign on their marquee, and thanks to Alun Macanulty for taking the photo.

On April 9, 2020, the CVAG staff team worked with Kmoks elder Barb Whyte to plant two beds, expanding the traditional Indigenous Full Circle Tea Garden that was started in 2018. Here are photos from that day, taken by CVAG photographer Alun Macanulty.

On Sunday, April 5, 2020, we celebrated the installation of "Crossroads", new public artwork created by Andy Everson and situated on the Comox Valley Art Gallery plaza. Due to the pandemic, we could not have the kind of large public gathering that would normally accompany such an important event. However, Andy Everson, members of his family, and CVAGs cultural protocal advisor Wedlidi Speck were on hand for a prayer, a blessing, singing and drumming (all at 2 meter physical ...distance). We will have a larger public celebration when the time comes, but for now we are pleased that hundreds of people have watched the event on Facebook. "Crossroads" was part of a larger improvement project made possible by funding from the Canada Council for the Arts, the Government of BC (Gaming Branch), the First Peoples Cultural Council and the City of Courtenay. The photos in this album were taken by CVAG photographer Alun Macanulty. See more

A great deal of work went into installing "Crossroads", the new public artwork created by Andy Everson and located on the Comox Valley Art Gallery Plaza. The sequence shows the crew hard at work on March 15. Special thanks to Tom Partridge of Valley Prototyping and Custom Cutting, and the installation + finishing crew Jess Lewis, Glenn Partridge, and Mary Partridge.