Cowichan Valley Arts Council

The Cowichan Valley Arts Council infuses art and culture into the lives and aspirations of its community. As a not-for-profit community art gallery and studio, the council showcases established artists and welcomes new talent into its space. From world-class exhibitions to workshops, meetings, and guest speakers, there is something for everyone.

Founded in 1971, the council has grown from a small local gallery into a dynamic facility that includes a gallery, annex, and studio space. While the organization has evolved over time, its purpose remains the same: to make the arts accessible to all.

The council is a close-knit community of board members, staff, artisans, and patrons, supported by volunteers who work tirelessly to turn vision into reality. The organization believes in the extraordinary potential of the arts to enrich and engage its community.

Address: 2687 James Street, Duncan, BC V9L 2X5
Phone: 1-250-746-1633
Website: cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca
Membership link: cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca/join-support/become-a-member

Organization Details

Installation setup available

• multi-media capacity
• plinths
• hanging system
• inventory lists
• floorplans
• hanging crew

Artists of interest

• local artists
• regional artists

Primary mediums and genres

• ceramics
• contemporary art
• crafts
• Indigenous art
• sculpture
• socially engaged art
• textiles
• two-dimensional works (primarily painters)

CARFAC membership

No

Does your organization offer memberships?

Yes

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Active relationships with First Nations and Indigenous communities:
Art exhibitions, board participation, partnerships, and instructors. First Nations and Indigenous artists and arts leaders are involved in some levels of direction and programming.

Diversity strategy or anti-racism/decolonization statement:
Yes; available on the website.

Current and future commitments to Indigenous artists and communities:
The board is updating its diversity lens tool to include a wider representation of First Nations communities.

Awareness of Indigenous Protocols for the Visual Arts:
Yes

Land acknowledgements offered:
Yes, during events and programs
Yes, on the website

Identified power dynamics and actions to address them:
Outreach activities, art tours, and art fairs

Accessibility:
• website compatible with assistive technology (for example, screen-reader friendly interface)
• wheelchair accessibility

Opportunities for emerging artists

• artist-in-residence programs
• workshops

Submission Process

Exhibition selection process

• requests for proposals, calls for submissions, or expressions of interest
• rental opportunities

Other opportunities to showcase work

• artist talks
• art markets and fairs
• auctions
• community programming (such as member shows)
• open studios
• workshops

Supports provided for exhibiting artists

• listings and newsletters

CARFAC Fees

Fees paid for exhibitions:
N/A
Fees paid for digital programming:
N/A
Fees paid for non-commercial reproductions:
N/A
Fees paid for commercial reproductions:
N/A
Fees paid for artist professional services:
N/A

Other Support for Artists

Accessibility supports:
N/A

Artist compensation:
• artwork sales and commissions