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.

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. 
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The organization's bylaws were signficantly revised in 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 was Mayne Island (2019) followed by Saturna Island (2021).
We acknowledge that we are fortunate to live ​and create on unceded territory of Coast Salish people.
Board of directors
  • Deborah Strong (Mayne), President/Treasurer
  • Kristine Webber (Mayne), Vice President/Secretary
  • Pamala Page (Saturna), Director
  • Monica Morten (Saturna), Director​
  • Mary Jo Hughes (Galiano), Supporting Director
Administrative assistant
  • Aileen Penner
Documents

​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:
  • In 2021, the Southern Gulf Islands Arts Council organized the second annual Arts on the Islands Regional Exhibition.
  • In 2020, the Southern Gulf Island Arts Council organized the first the Arts on the Islands regional exhibition for all members.
  • In 2020, the Southern Gulf Islands Arts Council launched its online Artists Directory for all member artists.
  • 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.​
  • Past regional art exhibitions have been held in connection with Festival Active Pass (Mayne/Galiano) and Canada Day celebrations (Mayne).
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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.