The great thing about art is that it can sprout up in the most unexpected of places. While there are, of course, always the well-known galleries and institutions of a local art scene, there are even more off-the-beaten-track spots that hold just as much inspiration. The West Coast is filled with creative gems like these waiting to be discovered. So the next time you’re planning an arty itinerary through the area, add some of these lesser-known (but equally excellent) galleries and studios to the route. You might be surprised by what you’ll find!
Outsiders and Others – Vancouver
Created with the goal of spotlighting art that might not necessarily “fit in”, Outsiders is a wonderful gallery to discover local artists just left of the mainstream. The roster of featured creatives often identify as folk, self-taught, visionary, intuitive, and artists with disabilities, so you can never be sure who you’ll meet or whose work you’ll find next!

Tahanan Studio – Vancouver
Meaning “home” in Tagalog, Tahanan is a collective space for creatives of all cultures, backgrounds, and persuasions. Offering workshops, community events, and even a coworking space, this is a locale to keep in mind when you’re looking to connect (or disconnect) for a while. Opened in 2025, the Mount Pleasant studio has a calendar full of events to get you out of your comfort zone and into something a bit more inspiring.

The Point – Whistler
So what’s The Point? It’s a lakeside artist-run centre in Whistler where creative voices can show their work, collaborate, and engage with the broader community. Almost like a commune, the lodge is a welcoming environment to build your expressive repertoire, challenge yourself, and make a few friends along the way.

Ground Ceramic Studio – Burnaby
There’s no creative outlet quite like rolling up your sleeves and putting your hands in clay. This Burnaby ceramic workshop is an excellent place to leave your stresses at the door as you let your mind wander and shape your next creation. Take a wheel for a spin or drop by for a group class, sometimes the unstructured nature of sculpture is the perfect remedy to routine.

Jey Art Studio – Vancouver’s North Shore
Pastels, sculpture, painting, however you’re looking to express yourself, a visit to Jey is a strong place to start! Offering workshops for all ages, this little studio on Vancouver’s North Shore has a robust list of classes that will appeal to your creative side. Whether you’re looking to practice your still life work or just do some therapeutic watercolour on canvas, look no further.

Country Lane Crafts – Surrey
The epitome of a small, local gem, this art studio began as a general craft store and evolved into an online art store featuring countless items to support mixed-media art practice. Not to be outdone, they also offer in-person classes led by a team of passionate local artists that will get your creative juices flowing in no time at all.

