Guess who’s sweet sixteen?

The Gabriola Arts Council’s (GAC) Thanksgiving Studio Tour. And they can’t wait to celebrate with a fun-filled weekend for everyone.

“I remember the first Studio Tour”, GAC President Kathy Ramsey says. “In the weeks prior to Tour #1, I kept telling artists we have to hang in there … even if the first year is a dud, it’s such a great idea it’s bound to take off in year three or four”.

“Well, Tour #1, Day #1 was a block-buster right out of the gates! This year the buzz seems even stronger than usual. Gabriola is gonna be hopping Oct. 6-8”.

What’s so different this year? 

“Loads of new artists”, Tour Committee Chair Karen Aaker says. “Plus island musicians will be busking around the island – watch for them in red scarves and toques”.

“Also local videographer Jules Molloy has created ‘One-Minute Wonders’ for various artists. These gems focus on the artist, their work and their studios”, she says. “It’s amazing how much information you can relay in a minute. They’re very educational and art enthusiasts will have an opportunity to understand the process behind the art.  Watch for them on the Gabriola Arts Council’s website, Facebook and the individual artists’ web sites”.

“Jules is also doing a piece on Gabriola”, Aaker says, “for those who wonder if the island has a gas station, a cash machine … a liquor store. This video puts those questions to bed while showcasing our beaches, artist studios and our ‘funky vibe’. Who can resist a visit after seeing the Malaspina Galleries in the sunshine?”.

The Thanksgiving Studio Tour injects about $100,000 into our economy as does the Gabriola Theatre Festival.

“Additionally”, GAC office administrator Michelle Benjamin says, “GAC contributed more than $90,000 last year into our community with our ‘hire local’ policies”.