Popular Art Galleries
Maurice Young Millennium Place is at the centre of Whistler’s arts community. Facilities include a public art gallery featuring local artists, and an auditorium for theatrical productions and film.
Whistler Village is also home to several galleries displaying works by local artists in a variety of media, as well as works by well-known international artists. Among the community’s many resident artists and craftspeople are visual artists, sculptors, potters, photographers, jewellery makers and writers.
Aboriginal Art
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre tells the story of the two Aboriginal communities – the Squamish people and the Lil’wat people – who share the traditional territory of Whistler. Learn about these two remarkable cultures and their intimate relationship with the land.
Marvel at carved cedar figures, expertly crafted weaving and other exquisite pieces of art. See authentic cedar canoes, significant historical artifacts, traditional regalia and replicated traditional dwellings. Participate in a song and dance, try a craft, and sample some delicious Aboriginal cuisine. Tour independently or with a guide.
Art Festivals & Events
Exciting festivals and events are a big part of life in Whistler, and many focus on the arts. For the months of July and August, local and regional artists display their work in venues all over the city – everywhere from restaurants and retail outlets to hotels and commercial galleries. ArtWalk is a free walking tour that takes in these displays.
ARTrageous is part of whistler’s wildly popular Cornucopia food and wine celebration, and is billed as “a one-night stand for artists, art lovers and art class renegades.” Locally produced creations are enjoyed along with funky music, dancing and wine.
On the other end of the scale, the long-standing Whistler Children’s Art Festival is a two-day event that encourages kids to use their imaginations through music, dance, acrobatics and theatre.
The Whistler Farmer’s Market is a great place to sample the local bounty, be it locally grown produce, locally produced artisanal foods, or locally created works of art.
During the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Whistler Live! will make use of a number of outdoor performance sites to offer free live programming every day throughout the Games. Concurrently, Whistler Live! ArtWalk will run all over Whistler Village so that local and regional artists can introduce their work to the world.
Public Art
There are several pieces of public art on display in Whistler Village as well as in the community’s parks. Some are based on Whistler’s world famous winter sports, while others reflect the valley’s pristine natural surroundings. Enquire at the Visitor Centre to find out where to look, or just keep watch on a stroll through the village and the local parks.