Welcome Haren Vakil!

After over a year of preparation, we are thrilled to finally welcome Haren Vakil to our gallery!

A resident of Sidney, just a few blocks from our gallery, Haren is an inspiring creative force. At 85, he continues to produce captivating artwork with energy and passion that truly motivates us all.

Born in Mumbai, India, Haren holds a degree in Architecture and a postgraduate diploma from the Victoria College of Art in Victoria, BC. His professional journey has taken him across the globe: from working as an architect and urban designer in India and the Netherlands to pursuing graduate studies at UBC in 1973. He eventually settled in Greater Victoria, where he works as a painter, illustrator, and designer. His works can be found in private collections across Canada, the U.S., Europe, and India.

Haren describes his work as being "rooted in the surreal and the fantastic," drawing inspiration from architecture, jazz music, and a blend of Eastern and Western cultures. “My intent is to produce images which evoke wonder, surprise and amusement,” he says, and he certainly succeeds!

Come meet Haren Vakil in person on Saturday, October 11, from 11am to 2pm at the gallery. His spotlight exhibition will run from October 11 through October 31. We can’t wait to share his remarkable work with you!

Welcome Peter Wyse!

We’re excited to shine a light on Peter Wyse, the newest artist to join our gallery family. Peter’s work brings an undeniable sense of joy, warmth, and storytelling that we instantly connected with—and we think you will too. His playful compositions, rich colors, and clean, confident lines are a fresh take on West Coast living, often featuring animals, nature, and familiar scenes reimagined with a whimsical twist.

Peter has spent years developing a style that feels both timeless and uniquely his own. There’s a quiet optimism in his work that resonates, something comforting and a little nostalgic. This spotlight exhibition is our way of welcoming Peter and introducing his art to our community. We’re thrilled to have him on board, and even more thrilled to share his work with you.

Peter will be in our gallery on Saturday September 13 from noon to 3pm to meet and chat with visitors!