Campbell River has been recognized by Premier David Eby for fostering community engagement and enrichment in the community through contemporary art
The Campbell River Art Gallery (CRAG) has been turning heads at the provincial level for its impact on the arts and culture scene in Campbell River.
On a recent tour of the gallery, Labour Minister Jennifer Whiteside and Municipal Affairs Minister Anne Kang, along with Parliamentary Secretary for Accessibility Dana Lajeunesse, and Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health Debra Toporowski awarded the art gallery a Certificate of Recognition from Premier David Eby.
“I am pleased to recognize (the CRAG’s) commitment to fostering community engagement and cultural enrichment through contemporary art,” reads the certificate. “The range and diversity of media that have been exhibited over the past three decades have undoubtedly intrigued and inspired all who have visited.”
The CRAG is the only non-profit public art gallery in Campbell River with a mission to connect with the hearts and minds of the community through a variety of contemporary art. It also strives to create a well-known and inviting space where people can come together to appreciate meaningful art.
Jenelle Pasiechnik, interim director and curator of contemporary art, said the CRAG was honoured to be recognized for the weekly artist-run Art Hive, along with its exhibitions and public outreach. It’s rewarding to know “there are politicians that support caring and inclusive programming that make real impacts in our communities,” Pasiechnik said.
Each year, the CRAG hosts three exhibitions featuring professional Canadian artists, and an annual members’ show highlighting talented local artists. The exhibitions focus on uplifting and bringing visibility to underrepresented voices within contemporary art. Each exhibition hosts a wide range of barrier-free programming, from artist-run workshops to performances and professional artists talks.
Since February 2022, the CRAG has been running the CRAG Art Hive, a studio space where people from the unhoused and lived-experience community can connect and express their creativity.
As part of the program, food and supplies are provided. Guest facilitators also are brought in to teach special skills, such as cedar bark harvesting, beading, carving, and print-making. Participants are encouraged to create their own designs, and to sell their work as consignors through the Gallery Shop.
Participants have learned to screen-print, and their designs can be seen on shirts and apparel worn around Campbell River and beyond.
