May 13, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Wells, Art Galleries & Artists
Find more information about Wells - Art Galleries & Artists
View a larger image on flickr.com
Setting out on the road heading east from Quesnel, we arrived in the still snowy community of Wells, BC. With preconceptions of a vibrant artists’ community in mind, it was at first disappointing to see the community in its dreary shoulder season state. There was hardly any sign of life in town and most services were yet to be opened for the summer months. However despite this initial impression, we were not giving up so easily.
After cruising a few blocks in our versatile off road Toyota Yaris, we were drawn to Island Mountain Art Gallery’s by its effervescent exterior mural as well as its open door and signs of human life. The gallery staff were cheerful, helpful and genuinely excited to meet us and shed some light on their community. We were in fact just a few weeks premature to witness Wells in all its splendor, as the snow had only recently receded and the village was in Spring clean-up mode. The artwork within offered a preview of the local talent, showcasing the works of talented local artists as well as assorted books, poetry, and jewelry produced in, and showcasing the region.
We left the gallery with a newfound appreciation of Wells as well as the natural beauty of its surrounding landscape, with aspirations of returning in late July for the notorious ArtsWells Festival; a celebration of all things art.