The Contemporary Collectors Club - Art and Travel

Wow! So I went art walking around Gastown on the weekend and I have to say for visitors coming to Vancouver, especially those getting of the cruise ships, what a fantastic opportunity to see some of Vancouvers incredible local talent.

From the amazing First Nations Store Coastal Peoples Fine Art Gallery to the funky artist run centers such as Artspeak The Helen Pitt Gallery and then on to an evening of fun at the Oh so cool Canvas Lounge or head to the Alibi Rooms which is known as one of Vancouver’s young artists favored hang outs.

I’ve got to be honest, I was blown away with how Gastown has changed and matured in the last 2 years. When I first moved to Vancouver it was an area that had a great underground feel but was definitely intimidating. Now I would put it on my hit list, almost above S. Granville and Gallery Row. Don’t get me wrong. I love some of the galleries on Gallery row, they are well reputed and established, completely worth visiting. But Gastown’s got the East London feel, with so much re-development and with so many creative industries crammed into a couple of blocks its very exciting. Its no longer dark and underground (although thats still there giving it an edge of excitement) its now funky, hip and totally hot. Its East London, Meets Soho, meets New Yorks Chelsea - but still West Coast Vancouver.

Basically - I’m a fan! So watch this space for more info on hot new young galleries!