Arts infusion on Salt Spring

International reputation as centre for the arts

Gulf Islands Tourism: a piece of art on display on Salt Spring Island

A chair is transformed into a piece of art

Tourists have reported again and again that when it comes to Salt Spring, nothing is a bigger draw than its reputation as a centre for the arts. The infusion of art into daily life is immediately evident: coffee shops and financial institutions double as gallery space, while a constant lineup of fine musicians from all genres are billed at intimate local venues and at the arts centre called ArtSpring.

Matt Steffich, a musician and owner of the gallery Steffich Fine Art, says every town is at its heart an art town, but what makes Salt Spring different is the high quality of art being produced.

"In a population of 10,000 people anywhere, you might find one good photographer," Steffich observes. "But here we have a half dozen that are considered really good."

It's not just photography where locals excel: Salt Spring Islanders participating on the national level are numerous in all the visual arts. The superb quality of artwork not only supports a number of galleries but has led to creation of a "best of the best" Masterpiece Weekend — this year on June 17-19.

Musicianship is a strong tradition on the island, and live performances take place at many cafes, pubs, community halls and ArtSpring. Watch for announcements of free shows in Centennial Park, and the Music and Munch series of free recitals at All Saints By-the-Sea Church on Park Drive in Ganges.

The Salt Spring Events Calendar is the island's most complete calendar, and the Gulf Islands Driftwood newspaper's What's On calendar is also a good source.