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The Gallery

Arthur Vickers' Gallery is set in the historic, picturesque seaside village of Cowichan Bay, on Southern Vancouver Island, BC. When the Vickers first discovered the picturesque building in the heart of this small coastal community, birds flew through it and nested in the rafters and they knew it was perfect. Reminding Arthur of his days with his grandfather in Oona River the Vickers have often commented, "it was like receiving a letter from a dear old friend".

Arthur fell in love with the history and sense of place, the workings of the shipyard reminding him of his childhood, and Melodie and Grant Blundell who have operated the shipyard for generations continue on with the traditions of the historic building. Jessica Vickers knew the building had wonderful attributes and would provide the perfect setting for Arthur to share his stories and his diverse works of art. The Shipyard continues to operate and they are surrounded by the sounds and sights of a working harbour it is a perfect fit for Arthur and his love of wood and woodworking and true craftsmanship.

The original structure was converted by architect Bruce Wilson into the elegant gallery you see today.

The 1,100-square-foot gallery facility was designed by Bruce Wilson of Bruce Wilson Canada. Maintaining the marine motif, Bruce converted the shipyard building into an elegant gallery with 15-foot ceilings covered in canvas and the large open windows have canvas draperies, the gallery has been described as peaceful, elegant and always warm and welcoming. Placed on a high beam is a model canoe to honour Arthur's grandfather, his Ya'ah. - an inspiration to tell his stories of his early days travelling the coasts of BC.

The walls are clad in artwork including Arthur's signature gold reliefs. In North America, this work is unique to Arthur, layers upon layers in its relief you capture a glimpse of his mastery and precision. Arthur's hand created art is reawakening ta centuries-old Japanese artform. His sketches are breathtaking intricate renderings. From First Nations traditional to still lifes to vistas of landscapes, each piece tells the story of the beauty of life on the Coast of Western Canada.

On most days you will find Jessica, their dog Wee-som and, sometimes as if by magic, Arthur at the gallery. Open most days of the year it is wise to be in touch with the gallery either by email or phone as the gallery has no set hours as the Vickers say, we are always open by appointment or by chance, but sometimes we are "closed due to weather" as Wee-som needed a boat ride.

Cowichan Bay

Located one hour north of Victoria and one hour south of Nanaimo, the historic seaside village of Cowichan Bay (population 2,600) has recently undergone a revitalization and the Arthur Vickers Gallery adds to the charming beauty and destination appeal of this seaside community. Fine restaurants, shopping, eco tours and whale-watching excursions attract people to Cowichan Bay, but it is Arthur's beautiful works of art, famous story telling and Jessica and Arthur's warm hospitality that brings them back.

For more information
visit www.cowichanbay.com.