The Southern Gulf Islands Arts Council is a registered non-profit society operated by volunteers who are passionate about the arts and committed to their island communities. Previously known as the Trincomali Arts Council when the society was registered in 1999, the organization has a long history in the region and over the years it has benefited from the time, talents, and significant efforts of many dedicated individuals.

Current board of directors

Mayne
Deborah Strong, President/Treasurer
Kristine Webber, Vice President/Secretary (acting)
​Jennifer Peers
​
Galiano
No directors at this time

Pender
No directors at this time

Saturna
No directors at this time

The islands’ geographic separation makes it challenging to hold regular meetings but board members communicate electronically as needed and meet in person when possible. In accordance with non-profit regulations, an Annual General Meeting is held each year. 

The organization's bylaws were recently updated (2019). One of the outcomes was to give each island two seats on the regional board to ensure equal representation regardless of population. Another important outcome was to create a framework wherein each island can form its own branch, offering autonomy to manage local affairs while benefiting from the regional "umbrella" of support. ​The first such branch to form has been on Mayne Island.

More information about the Southern Gulf Islands Arts Council is available here:

​Arts projects, programs & more

​Capital Projects
When the Southern Gulf Islands Arts Council was originally formed , a reserve of capital funding was allocated to each island. Projects that benefited from this funding were:
  • Galiano Library 
  • Mayne Community Bandshell 
  • Pender Community Hall
  • Saturna Community Hall
The remaining capital fund ($10,000) is allocated to Mayne Island for a suitable future project.

Programs & Events
Here are some examples of recent initiatives undertaken by the Southern Gulf Island Arts Council:
  • On an ongoing basis, the Mayne Island branch receives funding through Parks and Recreation to provide local arts programming. The branch also organizes exhibitions at the historic Agricultural Hall and the Mayne Library. 
  • Funding was obtained to supported cultural activity on Pender and Saturna during the inter-island Tour des Iles festival in 2017.
  • The self-funded Pender Art Guide has historically been produced by the Southern Gulf Islands Arts Council.
  • Past regional art exhibitions have been held in connection with Festival Active Pass (Mayne/Galiano) and Canada Day celebrations (Mayne).

BC Ferries Partnership
The Southern Gulf Island Arts Council organizes and installs exhibits in the "floating gallery" display cases on BC Ferries vessels. This currently includes the Queen of Cumberland from Swartz Bay, and the Salish ferry designated to serve the Tsawwassen route. We are grateful to BC Ferries for the ongoing opportunity to showcase the work of our members.