Get all the festive feels with tons of fabulous family artsy fun this month through the Cowichan Valley Arts Council.
Kick of this merry month with multilayered textures and dynamic colours in the form of landscapes, seascapes and abstracts at the The Abstract by Nature Exhibition by Jonathan Hoskins which will run from Dec. 4 through until Dec 21. Get a chance to meet the artist on Dec. 5 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m which is free and open to all.
“I create art you can live with,” says Mr. Hoskins, “It reveals itself over time, inspection and different light”.
The Six-by-Six fundraiser returns for a second time this holiday season on December 10 and will run through until Dec. 21 as CVAC had its first last February. Art enthusiasts of all ages will find a wide selection of six-inch-by-six-inch original artworks by local artists which would makes the ideal Christmas gift for the art-lover in your life. A gift like this is one that keeps on giving as all proceeds will continue to support more art for the community.
"We held an online auction earlier in the fall and did quite well, so we decided to re-launch it for the Holiday Season, and it feels great," said executive director Elizabeth Croft who has been in her role since last April. "Because artists are so willing to create pieces especially for the event and because people were so responsive to the online auction. The proceeds make art truly accessible to everyone which means we can provide lots of free programming, keep fees low and admission always free."
CVAC’s popular Artist Card Sale returns to their main gallery from Dec. 11 to 21 and will feature hundreds of cards from local artists with rare and stunning images which would make ideal stocking stuffers.
LEGO lovers are invited to get their build on for CVAC's fifth annual LEGO Show held in their main gallery which will also kick off on Dec. 11 and will run until Dec.21. This year's theme is the Salish Sea which was inspired and provided by the students and staff of Khowhemun Elementary. Families, school classes and LEGO enthusiasts are all invited to register for free and submit their Lego creations. To register today call CVAC at 250 746-1633.
Whether you choose to dress to the nines, don your best ugly Christmas sweater or accessorize with some jingle bells you won't want to miss out on the CVAC Holiday party on Dec. 18 in their main gallery from 2 to 5 p.m. This free festive event is open to all, appetizers, beverages, a silent auction oh my, plus four exhibitions on display and prizes for the best holiday themed outfit.
"I’m really excited about our first Holiday Party on Dec. 18," said Croft. "We wanted to offer something for everyone. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone in their Holiday outfits, and giving out some great prizes while enjoying food and fun amongst wonderful art."
All artists are also invited to kick off the new year by showcasing their talent. Artists of all mediums are encouraged to submit their creations for CVAC's Animalia Exhibition that will open in January. All interpretations about animals, real or imagined, are welcome. Contact CVAC for more details, the CVAC Galleries are located on the main floor of the Cowichan Community Centre art fans of all age will appreciate the free admission and can visit Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., or on Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m.
This holiday season CVAC truly offers an array of art to warm your heart.
"We hope everyone who comes by CVAC takes away a sense of warmth and fun," said Croft. "Art reminds us about what it means to be human, to think deeply and appreciate those around us. There are some wonderful pieces at different price points, and we hope people will find something beautiful to to bring home or to gift."
