Embrace summer, art, gardens and getting out and about in Esquimalt next weekend!
The fifth annual Urban Arts Tour is returning to Esquimalt on Saturday, July 6th which allows artists and gardeners to be carefully paired together to display their hard work for the community.
The event began in the dark days of the COVID-19 pandemic which had people feeling deprived of socialization and art as well as feeling cooped up in their homes.
It was conceptualized by the Esquimalt Community Arts Hub (ECAH) as a way to allow art to be displayed in a creative way when normally, this art would be displayed in a crowded market that would not allow for the social distancing required.
At this year’s fifth anniversary, the new tradition continues and attendees can expect a uniquely welcoming atmosphere with artists’ paintings, pottery, glasswork, fibre art and more.
All of which will be thoughtfully displayed in stunning gardens cultivated by Esquimalt residents.
“It’s been amazing to watch the event grow over the years,” said Luca Jesse Apel, Executive Director of ECAH.
Apel had the opportunity to participate in the event as an artist in 2021.
“Our first year we had 13 artists and hand-painted signs. Now we have 45 artists, an interactive online map, and a community that looks forward to it all year.”
This year, a new cast of artists will join some returning favourites. One returning local painter who is excited to be a part of the event is J Adams.
“A relationship with ECAH that started back then continues to fuel my creativity as an artist,” said Adams.
“My welcoming hosts at different properties each year have helped me set up my art amongst each of their unique gardens. The Urban Arts Tour offers this wonderful way to experience both, really embracing a real sense of community in Esquimalt.”
The event is meant to be an accessible, low-sensory and family-friendly event.
It has the benefit of having many stops perfect for walkers and cyclists traversing the community without the crowds of a traditional art market.
Participants can pick up a tour map and design their own routes based on what they want to see, and how far they want to go.
The tour map and list of artists are available to view and print online. They will also be available at some locations throughout Esquimalt, including the Eccentric Artist Studio & Gallery, Esquimalt Rec Centre and Bunny’s Kitchen.
