Denman island is known for its wealth of artists and craftspeople. In fact, based on data from Statistics Canada's 2001 census, the number of people stating "art" as their occupation in the Comox-Strathcona Area K (Denman & Hornby Islands) ranked third highest in the entire country!

No wonder then, that a dedicated group of Denman Islanders saw the potential for an arts centre in a dilapidated old farmhouse. The corner property at the top of the ferry hill had belonged to Dora Drinkwater, who lived there for 50 years and was much loved by the community. The volunteer-run library bears her name as its founder. When she passed away, her house, circa 1908, went on the market.

Fearing demolition, a group of Denman Island residents pooled their resources to buy the .79 acre property and house. The Village House Project was formed to buy and restore the property and house in the hope that it could be transformed into a public space. Its members now total 43 community-minded investors. After two years renovations are complete—accomplished by the tireless efforts of many volunteers and trades people. Perched on a new foundation, the house boasts a majestic covered porch on three sides and is crowned with a new roof. Interior modifications have been made to maximize space yet preserve character.

Arts Denman, celebrating its twentieth year this year, has just moved in to rent the building and run it as the Denman Island Arts Centre. The arts organization is known for its popular Concerts Denman performance series, Summer Art Gallery and numerous other programs. A decision was reached to expand its programming to offer workshops, courses and studio space. After twenty years of operating as a project-based group, the non-profit society decided on a bold and exciting move into a permanent home.

The first season of workshops and courses offers a wide variety of artistic disciplines. Painting, papermaking, basketry, photography, book arts and more will be taught by visiting and local instructors. Among the instructors for this summer are Hornby Island's Anne Ngan and Sharron Milstein, former Victoria College of Art Director, Robin Mayor, Victoria artists Dorothy Field and Karen Wallace to name a few. Six to eight week courses begin this June and groups of artists and crafters will use the classroom for regular sessions, and meetings. A new website at www.artsdenman.com has detailed information, including biographies of a stellar list of visiting art instructors for 2006.

The Denman Island Arts Centre intends to be an enlivening presence, offering both the veteran artist and the curious novice a place to explore their muse. For more information call 1-888-335-1221.