The 22nd Annual INCLUSION Art Show & Sale brought two days of creativity, connection and community to Vancouver’s Roundhouse Arts & Recreation Centre on October 27 and 28. More than 200 artists participated this year, including a record 52 independent artists, alongside artists from studios and organizations across Metro Vancouver.
From paintings and photography to pottery, glasswork, textiles, jewelry and more, visitors had the opportunity to discover an incredible range of original artwork, meet the artists behind the creations and take home something truly unique.
Over the two days, artists connected with visitors, families, friends and fellow creators. The show provides an opportunity to exhibit their work, build confidence, develop relationships and earn income from something they love. Artists keep 100% of their art sales, allowing them to directly benefit from their creativity.
“You can feel the love in the room between the artists and supporters. Love the free admission, and the transit accessibility. I came back today for more!” – Event guest
Celebrating Creativity
There was plenty to see and experience throughout the two days. Alongside the artwork on display, artist-led demonstrations gave visitors an opportunity to see creativity in action and learn more about different artistic processes.
This year’s demonstrations included:
Darrol Rae – The Geometry of a Horse: Learning to Draw with Shapes
Angel Kam – How to Make a Cute Clay Cat
Taya James – Hats from the Heart
Salo Leon – From Clay to Fantasy: Transforming a Vessel
Live music performances added to the atmosphere, featuring Colin Darge, Deja Vu, Manuel Hii, Brian Brown, Hannah Brown and Paul Leighton. Their performances added another layer of energy and entertainment to the event.
“I thought the show was even better than last year. It’s wonderful to see so many new artists taking part and bringing something fresh to the event.” – Lizanna Carlberg
Honouring Jotti Leihl’s Legacy
The Jotti Leihl Emerging Artist Award honours the memory of Jotti Leihl, whose love of art brought her great joy and inspired those around her. A member of posAbilities’ Richmond Social Network, Jotti explored painting, jewelry-making and beeswax candle-making, finding opportunities to develop her talents, share her artwork and earn income through her work.
INCLUSION was the highlight of Jotti’s year, inspiring her to continue pursuing her passion and sharing her art. Following her passing, her family established this annual award in her memory, generously providing a $1,000 scholarship to support another artist in developing their talents.
This year’s recipient was Sadiqa Shah. Congratulations, Sadiqa! We are grateful to the Leihl family for helping carry Jotti’s creative spirit forward and supporting the next generation of artists.
Celebrating Creativity Through Our Holiday Art Card
Each year, the INCLUSION Art Show’s Art Card Contest recognizes another outstanding piece of artwork. This year’s winning piece, “Ducks of the Winter Pond” by Talen Greig, will be featured on posAbilities’ holiday card.
Congratulations to Talen! We look forward to sharing this beautiful piece with our community and supporters this holiday season.
Thank You!
A successful event takes a community of people working together. We extend our sincere thanks to all the participating artists, studios and organizations who shared their work with us, as well as the visitors, families, volunteers and planning committee members who helped bring this year’s show to life.
A special thank you to Open Door Group, our co-presenter, for helping make our show possible. We are grateful to our sponsors for their generous support: BCGEU, Jemma Scoble Consulting, Vancouver Is Awesome, BMO and the Leihl Family. Thank you as well to the Roundhouse Arts & Recreation Centre for hosting us and providing such a welcoming space.
“One of the best events hosted at the Roundhouse every year! Great planning, great art, a great time.” – Roundhouse employee
We’d also like to recognize K’ana (ancestral name) Deborah Baker, Elder, for sharing a meaningful Squamish Nation territorial welcome, along with our live music performers, artist demonstrators and everyone who helped create such a vibrant atmosphere throughout the two days.
Thank you for being part of another wonderful year. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the next INCLUSION Art Show & Sale!