Explore your Art within the Gabriola Island Community
Kasahara Gabriola Trust and the Gabriola Arts Council are seeking applications from artists working in a wide range of disciplines for five residency periods from September 2023 to June 2024 which take place on Gabriola Island, BC, the Isle of the Arts.
Gabriola Island is one of the Southern Gulf Islands located in the Salish Sea and is a 20 minute ferry ride from Nanaimo located on Vancouver Island.
Learn more about the artist residency, application criteria and the life of Toshiko Kasahara at https://artsgabriola.ca/kasahara-gabriola-trust-artist-residency/
We are accepting applications for 5 Residency Periods:
- September 1 – September 30, 2023
- October 6 – December 5, 2023
- February 1 – March 29, 2024
- April 3 – May 29, 2024
- June 1 – June 30, 2024
All applications are due June 25th, 2023 by 5pm PST – for all residency periods
Who is Toshiko Kasahara
Toshiko Kasahara came upon Gabriola Island almost by accident, acquiring the oceanfront property as repayment for a loan over 50 years ago. She and her husband dreamed of building on the property, but her husband died before they could realize it. Undaunted (at age 80) Toshiko built her house on the beach.
Her love of the island was matched by her love of the arts – all forms of art – from poetry to loud music. Throughout her life, Toshiko held a strong spirit of adventure. She was curious, passionate, fearless and determined – in almost everything she did. She loved everything the island had to offer – the ocean, the arts and the people. She loved to entertain and – more than anything to connect. The Kasahara Gabriola Trust that she left is a tremendous legacy to this singular, indomitable person who wanted the best for her island home and community.
Application Criteria
Applications are welcome from Canadian artists working in a wide range of disciplines including, but not limited to, visual art, film, literary arts, performance arts or music/sound.
Applicants should keep in mind the unique environment of Gabriola Island and familiarize themselves with the amenities and services available including Nanaimo.
The house is suitable for two people, but we do not accept joint applications. The successful artist may choose to bring their partner, child or art companion upon approval.
How to Apply
Applications should explain why the artist wishes to participate in the program and describe the project to be undertaken during the proposed residency. The proposal must provide a plan for how the applicant will engage the community of Gabriola during their residency.
Please note that this is a Google form which requires a Google Account in order to upload the required documents and materials.
If you have any trouble accessing the application form, please contact Carol Fergusson via email residency@artsgabriola.ca for assistance, or call 250-247-7409
Diversity enriches community. Gabriola Arts Council is committed to appreciating and celebrating diversity in arts. We strive to increase understanding and acceptance of each other, thereby making us more compassionate human beings and strengthening the fabric of our communities. Please indicate in your application self-identities you identify with.
More Information
Learn more about Gabriola Island
Learn more about the Gabriola Arts Council
About the residency, practical facilities, past residents, and detailed application criteria.
Application deadline: June 25, 2023
For assistance, contact Carol Fergusson via email residency@artsgabriola.ca, or call 250-247-7409
