We on Denman Island are extremely fortunate to have a supremely vibrant artistic and cultural community.
We have been rated “3rd in all of rural Canada for having the highest number of registered professional artists”. And, Denman Island, along with the rest of the Comox Valley, was named the cultural capital of Canada in 2008.
For that, in addition to the all the artists, artisans, writers and musicians who live, work and play here, we can thank Arts Denman.
Under the Arts Denman umbrella, both residents and island visitors alike enjoy year-round arts and cultural offerings.
Art Shows
Throughout the year, various art shows are facilitated at the Arts Centre, a lovingly restored heritage house at the top of the ferry hill. In July and August, the Summer Art Gallery takes up residence in the hall adjacent to the Senior’s Centre, for a variety of creative shows.
Art Studio Map & Guide
The Arts Denman Marketing Project has launched the beautiful Denman Island Art Studio Map for 2011! The map, based on a gorgeous watercolour painting created by artist Jane Fawkes, allows you to take a self-guided tour of Art Studios on the island, and features 21 island artists, working in diverse media including painting, printmaking, fibre arts, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, collage, book arts, shrine making, and more. For a downloadable copy, click here to go to their Arts Denman webpage.
Classic Film Series
At various times throughout the year, film buff Bill Engleson presentsdifferent series of Classic Movies on Wednesday nights at the Arts Centre.
Concert Series
One of the most exciting entertainment options available throughout the year is Concerts Denman’s series of events. These can range from world-renowned classical musicians and chamber group to choirs, Folk and Pop performances. Each year the organizing committee dazzles us with repeat favourites, new talent and always, superlative talent. Concerts are generally held in the Denman Island Community Hall, with its warm, personable ambiance, excellent acoustics and lighting, and truly superb concert grand piano.
Sunday October 15, 2011, 3 p.m.
Helena Jung, Cello & Sean Mooney, Piano
Sunday November 27, 2011, 3 p.m.
George Zukerman, Bassoon & Leslie Janos, Piano
Tuesday January 17, 2012, 3 p.m.
Sunday February 19, 2012, 3 p.m.
Sunday March 4, 2012, 3 p.m.
Sarah Hagen, Piano & The Emily Carr String Quartet
Saturday March 31, 2012, 3 p.m.
Victor Kuleshov, Violin & Eugene Skovorodnikov, Piano
Tuesday April 17, 2012, 3 p.m.
Denman Island Arts Centre
The Denman Island Arts Centre, a lovingly restored heritage home at the top of the ferry hill, is home to numerous arts related functions, from studio groups to island artist’s gallery shows and various arts education activities offered throughout the year.
Denman Island Artist’s Studio Tour
Many of our local artists work from home studios which are either open to the public during posted hours or by appointment. During the semi-annual Denman Island Artist’s Studio Tour, even some studios not normally available provide an insight into the creative process.
Summer Art Gallery
The Summer Art Gallery besides the village Seniors Centre showcases a number of exclusive art exhibitions during the tourist season.
