Ladysmith, part of the Vancouver Island region – a hub of artistic creativity and art galleries in British Columbia – is home to a heritage-housed community art gallery, several private galleries, and a many artist studios (some of which welcome visitors). In late summer, the work of local is prominently at Arts on the Avenue, which features a juried competition and opportunity to buy original pieces.
Ladysmith Waterfront Arts Gallery
The Ladysmith Waterfront Arts Gallery, housed in a former Comox Logging and Railway Co. repair shed, is operated by the Arts Council of Ladysmith and District. The gallery's rotating series of exhibits is highlighted by the annual Multi-Media Fine Arts Exhibit in the fall. Expect to see work by such local talents as visual artist Marta Likova, multimedia specialist Robin Ovans and folk art painter Clare Singleton.
Arts on the Avenue
On a shirt-sleeve summer afternoon in late August, some 30 plus Ladysmith and area artists participate in Arts on the Avenue, taking to the streets and greeting the public on 1st Avenue near Roberts Street. A juried competition, sidewalk chalk paintings, a hands-on arts area for kids, and plenty of original art at affordable prices has made this a popular annual event since 1999.
Ladysmith Galleries & Home Studios
The expressionist art of Dennis Brown, wood carvings by Jack Fisher and the west coast seascapes of painter Michael Dean are among the local work displayed at Bayview Framing & Art (421 1st Avenue). Carvings are the specialty of T.R. Chapman produces one-of-a-kind sculptures at his Vancouver Island Carving Co. workshop (on the western side of the Trans Canada Highway south of Ladysmith). Two fine potters – Peggy Grigor in Saltair and Ladysmith's Mary Fox – both operate home studios and welcome visitors. For unique glass art and sculptures, check out Vic Nadurak's Seafire Glass Works on the Chemainus Road in Saltair. In Cedar, the Barton & Leier Gallery (3140 Decourcy Drive off Yellowpoint Road) features the internationally known work of Grant Leier and Nixie Barton; the adjoining large garden filled with art objects and installations is alone worth the visit.
Drop by the Ladysmith Visitor Centre for more information on area artists and galleries, and to pick up a guide to Cedar and Yellow Point artist studios.