JANUARY 2025:
Okanagan Artists of Canada Society Celebrates 80 Years of "Artists Helping Artists"
The Okanagan Artists of Canada Society (OACS) proudly celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2025, marking eight decades of fostering artistic growth, collaboration, and community spirit. As one of the oldest art associations in British Columbia, the OACS continues to embody its motto: "Artists Helping Artists."
Founded in 1945 as the Vernon Artist Association, the club has undergone several name changes and expansions, reflecting its enduring commitment to the arts. From its early days supporting local artists to becoming a registered society in 2017, the OACS has played a vital role in the cultural landscape of the Okanagan region.
Recognizing the importance of preserving its rich history, the club made a significant contribution in April 2019 by donating its historical records to the Vernon Museum & Archives. This valuable collection, carefully maintained and passed down through generations, offers a glimpse into the club’s evolution and lasting impact on the local arts community. The public is encouraged to visit the Vernon Museum & Archives to explore this historical treasure.
“Our journey from a small artist group in 1945 to a thriving society today is a testament to the passion and dedication of our members,” said Kris Fuller, President of the OACS. “As we celebrate our 80th year, we honor the artists who came before us and look forward to inspiring future generations.”
The OACS continues to host art shows (Art in the Village Green Mall and our annual Fall for Art show at the Vernon Community Arts Centre), annual retreat in Sorrento, and providing scholarships for emerging artists. As the society embarks on its next chapter, it remains committed to nurturing artistic talent and enriching the cultural fabric of the Okanagan.
Okanagan Artists of Canada Society Celebrates 80 Years of "Artists Helping Artists"
The Okanagan Artists of Canada Society (OACS) proudly celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2025, marking eight decades of fostering artistic growth, collaboration, and community spirit. As one of the oldest art associations in British Columbia, the OACS continues to embody its motto: "Artists Helping Artists."
Founded in 1945 as the Vernon Artist Association, the club has undergone several name changes and expansions, reflecting its enduring commitment to the arts. From its early days supporting local artists to becoming a registered society in 2017, the OACS has played a vital role in the cultural landscape of the Okanagan region.
Recognizing the importance of preserving its rich history, the club made a significant contribution in April 2019 by donating its historical records to the Vernon Museum & Archives. This valuable collection, carefully maintained and passed down through generations, offers a glimpse into the club’s evolution and lasting impact on the local arts community. The public is encouraged to visit the Vernon Museum & Archives to explore this historical treasure.
“Our journey from a small artist group in 1945 to a thriving society today is a testament to the passion and dedication of our members,” said Kris Fuller, President of the OACS. “As we celebrate our 80th year, we honor the artists who came before us and look forward to inspiring future generations.”
The OACS continues to host art shows (Art in the Village Green Mall and our annual Fall for Art show at the Vernon Community Arts Centre), annual retreat in Sorrento, and providing scholarships for emerging artists. As the society embarks on its next chapter, it remains committed to nurturing artistic talent and enriching the cultural fabric of the Okanagan.
JANUARY 2021:
Winner of the People's Choice Award from our first Virtual Show Nov - Jan 2021: GAIL HALL
OCTOBER 2020:
Telus Interview at VCAC with OACS members:
Back in October 2020, Telus sent a film crew to Vernon to do a documentary on the Vernon Community Art Centre. In addition to interviews with the many people who work and are involved in the Art Centre, some of our OACS members such as Patricia Doyle, Sharon Isaaks, Jeanne Byron, Terri Heinrichs and Nancy Vince were interviewed as well. A special thanks to Sheri Kunzli for organizing and introducing the community to the “gem of an art centre” we are blessed to have here in Vernon. The You Tube video link is below and well worth watching!
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Header art: "Spring Blossoms" by Sharon Isaaks
OKANAGAN ARTISTS OF CANADA SOCIETY
All artwork copyright © 2006-2025 of the artist