Kamloops' creative community is diversely influenced by the area's First Nations' culture, western Canadian traditions, European art forms, and contemporary Canadian art. Creative works by local and regional artists are prominently displayed at various galleries around Kamloops, such as the Old Kamloops Courthouse, the Kamloops Art Gallery, and the Hampton Art Gallery. During late summer check out the Kamloops Art Walk, when works of local artists are featured in storefront windows along Kamloops' North Shore.
Old Kamloops Courthouse
The Old Kamloops Courthouse, located across from City Hall on the south side of Seymour Street, is one of Kamloops' most treasured buildings and is today the converted home of the city's various arts organizations. Designed by architects John James Honeyman and George Dillon Curtis (the same architects who designed the Empress Hotel in Victoria), the old courthouse in addition to period theatre performances hosts Bizarre Bazaar, a weekly celebration of local artisans, crafters, and entertainers, featuring handcrafted original art works and crafts during summer months.
Kamloops Art Gallery
Located at the corner of Fifth Street and Victoria in downtown Kamloops, the Kamloops Art Gallery houses a permanent collection of more than 1,700 works by visual artists from the southern interior of British Columbia. With four distinct exhibition spaces focused on different genres of visual art, the gallery displays a broad range work in various media which are sometimes available to purchase.
Private Art Galleries
Private art galleries located around Kamloops city centre feature works by artists from the Thompson Okanagan region and British Columbia in general, including the Hampton Art Gallery (125-4th Ave in Kamloops), which represents about 40 regionally and nationally acclaimed artists. Bunkhouse Art Gallery is another distinctive gallery located on the second floor of the Horse Barn, a ranching retail store beside Mt. Paul Golf Course (in the industrial park accessible by crossing the Red Bridge). The Bunkhouse Gallery has a large collection of western and wildlife art.
Kamloops Art Walk
Kamloops Art Walk is an annual community event where local artists partner with retailers to display creative works in storefront windows. During August/September stroll along North Shore enjoying the art and craftwork of Kamloops' vibrant creative community. Stop by the Kamloops Visitor Centre for more information about artists and art galleries in the area.