Route 19A Fine Arts Exhibition starts Sept. 14 in PQB

The Route 19A Fine Arts Exhibition is back for a second year this September and will include two separate events.

The Juried Fine Art Exhibit is set for Sept. 14 and Sept. 15 at the Lighthouse Community Centre (240 Lions Way) in Qualicum Bay, according to a news release.

The following weekend (Sept. 21 and Sept. 22), there will be a studio tour featuring artists located from Union Bay to Qualicum Beach.

Last year’s inaugural Route19A Arts Festival was spearheaded by jewellery designer and instructor, Peggy Logan.

Her idea to plan the festival during BC Culture days helped make it easier for art lovers to learn about, enjoy and purchase art. Both events were a well attended success. A dedicated group of artist/committee members have been working diligently to put this year’s festival together, adding new ideas to take it up a notch.

This year the artists in the exhibition were meticulously juried from a pool of Vancouver Island applicants by three accomplished artists: David Goatley and Dominik Modlinski from Vancouver Island, and Ian Carter from Vancouver.

The fine art exhibition immediately caught the eye of Cindy Mawle, a Vancouver Island artist (and committee member) who has been dreaming of a large centralized annual event for Island artists in the future.

“While there are many festivals to participate in, it is just never quite the right fit. For example, many people interested in fine art don’t expect to find what they are looking for at mixed arts/crafts/artisan events. Some prefer to peruse in a more focused and professional style space,” said Mawle. “While I do enjoy the festivals, I feel we could reach many more art lovers and buyers by offering a more defined selection, with a little festival feel thrown in for good measure.”

This annual indoor art event aims to attract fine art enthusiasts and buyers from both on and off the island, showcasing Vancouver Island artists and establishing a prime destination for fine art.

Conveniently located with ample parking, artists will be present at their “mini gallery” displays to engage with collectors, promote their work and network with fellow artists.

Featuring 22 talented artists in classic black-draped booths, live background music, and Tidal Tacos catering, the event promises a touch of class. It’s a fantastic opportunity for all art lovers and buyers.

The studio tour will feature more than 30 artists opening their studios from Qualicum Beach to Union Bay.

Explore a diverse array of work including garden art, fine art prints, cards, original paintings, fine jewellery, sculptures, and bespoke clothing.

Sponsors for the Route 19A Fine Arts Exhibition include: Setter & Assoc. (Remax), Lighthouse Feed and Garden, Bowser Builders, Candi Svrta, Georgia Park Store, McQueen Artworks, Arbutus Clothing, Bowser Pharmacy, Berwick Qualicum, Salish Sea Market, Cape St. James, Carla Flegel, Red Rooster Fishing, Cathouse Gallery, Comfy Cat Kennel and Things & Stuff.

This event offers a unique opportunity to see a wide range of artistic creations and meet the artists behind them in the studios where they are created.

For more information go to: www.route19a.com.

— NEWS Staff