The Harbour Gallery

Communities grow around old buildings and new ideas. Grants make things possible and hardworking volunteers and visionaries make things happen. Harbour Gallery in Madeira Park is a great example of passion breathing new life into an unused and neglected space. The charming spot, a little knoll above the marina and across from the school ground, was recognized by energetic founding members Maureen Marshal and Wendy Simmonds. They applied to the SCRD for access to the former forestry gas station in the late 1980s. June Malaka, the longest standing member and “matriarch” recalls:

“The first renovation efforts were all done by members and a few spouses, as in dropping and insulating the ceiling, putting in some lighting, whitewashing the unfinished walls, adding a sliding glass door, and installing a salvaged carpet. It was a significant improvement to the greasy garage.”

In 1993 the non-profit organization Community Futures partnered with the gallery, the School of Music, and Serendipity preschool to provide labour for further improvements to what was becoming a little hub for arts and services. This allowed the addition of storage space and a washroom, which made the building suitable for studio work as well as display. Nothing too fancy, though, as Malaka explains:

“We maintain a humble, funky little space.”

Harbour Gallery responds to the rhythms of our small community. In off-peak times the gallery provides studio space for guest artisans, solo and group shows, as well as workshops.

May Day is when the season really starts, and the gallery aims to have new artwork on the walls for the summer. They also try to be open on days that there is a concert on at the School of Music and during community events such as April Tools and Winterfest. In high summer (July and August) the gallery is staffed with volunteers daily from 11–4pm. During the months of June and September the door is open Saturday 11–4pm. Visitors often return each year, and staff cheerfully provide tourist information. The gallery also participates in the Art Crawl in October.

Harbour Gallery wants to give the community what it needs:

“Our goal has been to provide a welcoming and stimulating space for members and visitors. We operate on a willingness of our members to volunteer their time and energy. Most of us are not professional artists but love to explore new techniques and share with others. We encourage new members to join if they are looking for some art fellowship.”