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Renowned Sooke Fine Arts Show is back

Call to artists runs until May 24
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The 2022 Sooke Fine Arts Show Call to Artists is open now through May 24, and artists across Vancouver Island and BC’s coastal islands are encouraged to submit their works for this year’s exhibition.

This year will mark the highly anticipated return of the Sooke Fine Arts Show as a live event at Sooke’s SEAPARC Arena. The arena will again be skillfully transformed into a high-end art gallery welcoming back seasoned art lovers as well as those new and curious about the world of art.

From July 21 to August 1, the gallery will showcase original works of art against a backdrop of live music, art demonstrations, talks and guided tours. There are hands-on activities for youth and events for seniors. A gallery of the art pieces displayed at the live show will be available for viewing online.

“The call to artists is highly anticipated by coastal artists, especially this year—our first live show since 2019,” said Terrie Moore, executive director of the Sooke Fine Arts Society. “Artists and patrons alike are telling us that they’re eager to experience and enjoy artworks in person again, and we anticipate great exposure for our artists this year—over 9,000 visitors attended our last live show and more than 10,000 viewed our recent online shows.”

Award-winning Victoria artist Leonard Butt has submitted his pieces for many years to the SFAS. He agrees that this year’s show will be a great one for artists, who may have a backlog of creative content, especially stemming from so much social change.

“I’m excited that the show is live this year because I get to meet other artists and get feedback on my work directly from people at the show. The SFAS always gives a bit a of kickstart to my creativity!”

A distinguished jury panel will adjudicate over 350 pieces of original fine art created from every imaginable material, in both traditional and contemporary styles. The show will also award over $12,000 in multiple categories, including art excellence, social commentary, designer’s choice and people’s choice.

In addition, artists can contribute unique gift items for sale in the show’s popular gallery gift shop, and are encouraged to deliver talks, demonstrations or guided gallery tours at the show.

Submission to the Sooke Fine Arts Show is open to anyone on BC’s coastal islands creating original paintings, sculpture, photography, fibre arts, ceramics or hand-formed jewellery. Information is available on the society’s website at sookefinearts.com.

Artists are encouraged to submit their works online until midnight, Thursday, May 24 at sookefinearts.com.

The Sooke Fine Arts Show and Sale is a volunteer-driven, community-proud event with a 36-year history of showcasing the art and culture of the region. It draws visitors from the local area, the Lower Mainland, across Canada, the US and abroad to enjoy and celebrate the unique culture of Sooke and BC’s coastal area.