Open Space Arts Society

Open Space Arts Society is a Canadian non-profit artist-run centre founded in September 1972 and located on unceded lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) territory in Victoria, British Columbia. With business registration number 119068815RR0001, it has been a foundational institution supporting professional artists engaged in hybrid, experimental, and contemporary art practices across a broad range of disciplines including media, music, and performance art.

Mandate and Vision

Open Space Arts Society encourages artistic excellence and exploration by fostering investigative and experimental projects across all artistic disciplines. The organization recognizes risk-taking as a central component of artistic excellence and sustains its operations through grants and innovative funding models. It invites broad engagement in contemporary arts by participating actively within local, national, and international social and cultural contexts. The society offers financially accessible programs designed to stimulate critical exchange, dialogue, and debate, while supporting freedom of expression.

Open Space practices integrity and professionalism through transparent communication, respect and trust in relationships, advocacy for the arts, and governance by an active and visible board. The society aims to provide the major contemporary arts centre for the region, welcoming artists of diverse disciplines, media, generations, cultures, and communities[1][4][5].

Programming and Activities

Open Space hosts a variety of exhibitions, performance events, artist talks, workshops, and community-engagement programs. Highlights of recent and ongoing programming include:

• Aadaab KELKE,IŁĆ: A collaborative Indigenous-led work developed by artist Farheen Haq, presented as part of the "Contemplating Change" series in 2025.

• Communities of the Pacific West Coast for Climate Justice: An arts-based, Indigenous-led community research project co-developed with Indigenous and People of Colour communities, focusing on climate justice from a planetary health perspective.

• Out & About: A series of Coffee Chats, Artist Talks, and Workshops designed to maintain community connection while the physical gallery undergoes renovations.

• CENTO: An interactive risograph artist book featuring editions by diverse artists, incorporating functional and experimental forms.

• On the Land Mural Project: An Indigenous Emerging Artists Program initiative engaging mural painting as a form of cultural expression and artistic challenge.

• Access Renovations: Open Space has been actively upgrading its facility at 510 Fort Street, including installing an elevator to improve accessibility to the gallery and office spaces.

• Fifty Years on the Land: Programming reflecting on the society’s 50-year history in operation on lək̓ʷəŋən Traditional Territory, engaging audiences in ongoing critical and cultural dialogue[1][2][4].

Impact and Recognition

Over more than five decades, Open Space Arts Society has established itself as a laboratory for contemporary art innovation and a vital platform for artists across Canada and beyond. It has promoted inclusivity and diversity in the arts and has been involved in notable national and international events such as the Venice International Performance Art Week. The society is recognized for its commitment to supporting experimental art and fostering interaction between artists and audiences, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of Victoria and the broader artistic community[5].

Open Space Arts Society continues to evolve as a dynamic and inclusive hub for contemporary art, deeply rooted in Indigenous territory and committed to advancing progressive, risk-taking artistic practices.