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The guild's primary objective is to bring together aspiring and accomplished visual artists for mutual inspiration, learning and encouragement in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Through its many different activities, the Guild promotes the artistic growth and self-expression of members. Training forms a central tenet of the Guild's philosophy. Each year, weekly workshops are presented by professional artists from across British Columbia and senior Guild members, catering to the needs of both beginning and more advanced artists. In addition, the Guild holds informal drop-in painting sessions and organizes focus group studies in portraiture, life drawing and botanical painting. The Guild also organizes shows and sales of original works created by its members.
In 1972 a group of aspiring artists formed the Salt Spring Painter's Guild under the leadership of Emily Crosby. Windsor Utley, an internationally recognized artist, was the first president and instructor. The Guild's purpose was to develop training opportunities for local artists. Initially, the group undertook a 3-year correspondence course with the BC School of Art. Over the years, the format blossomed into weekly workshops with instructors from Canada and the US, and from senior Guild members. The Guild also maintains a close connection to the Federation of Canadian Artists (FCA) through invitations to FCA members to present workshops and demonstrations to our members. In our photograph albums you will see familiar names like Kiff Holland, Robert Genn, Alan Wylie, Harry and Caren Heine, Loreen Legersky, Peter Lynde, Allan Edwards and Jack Avison. With about 100 active members since 2003, the Guild has become a vibrant, creative organization of individuals working in a wide range of media and styles.
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