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As published in the October 2004 Issue of Western Living Magazine
A PILLAR IN THE VANCOUVER ARTS COMMUNITY
MOVES FORWARD, AND GIVES BACK

The eastern edge of Yaletown still retains glimpses of the community’s industrial heritage;
yet to fall in stride with retail and residential sweep that has consumed most of the
neighbourhood. Here, nestled amongst the aging warehouse spaces, you’ll discover a local business that has quietly, yet assuredly, made its mark on the city.

In many ways Art Works Gallery can be described in terms of the most coveted brand for any retail business: an “industry insider’s best kept secret.” After all, a large portion of their client base consists of the city’s top interior designers and decorators who rely on the gallery for their dynamic and wide-ranging selection of contemporary and traditional imagery. But the fact is that for almost 20 years, Art Works Gallery has been very involved in the Vancouver arts community, representing a dynamic group of both Canadian and international artists, with a primary focus on local talent. Residential and corporate clients come to Art Works for their wide variety of original art, limited editions and poster reproductions, and the ever-changing mix of styles and mediums.

Albeit unaware, many Vancouver residents have come into contact with Art Works in the community-at-large, whether it is through the gallery’s corporate projects (Concord Pacific properties, Metropolitan Building, One Wall Centre Strata Tower, Sonora Lodge among others) or through their very active involvement in various charitable organizations (Art for Life, St. James Cottage Hospice, A Step Ahead Foundation).

Now, more than ever, a visit to Art Works is attune to a lesson in what’s exciting and relevant in the Vancouver arts community. At the gallery you will discover a recently renovated and expanded space that is as dedicated to the novice buyer as it is to the experienced. Art Works is designed to be accessible and approachable: pullout walls of original works are conveniently theme-based—distinguishing between landscape, abstract, figurative and still life pieces—aiding the buyer to hone in on the perfect piece. Of course, Art Works’ staff are always on hand to offer their advice and expertise, and even more importantly, to share their passion for the work they showcase. Installation services are offered to customers for artwork purchased, and gallery representatives are happy to advise on the different methods for hanging artwork. Gallery reps will also provide in-home consultations to help clients determine the best piece for the size of their space, as well as the look and feel the client aims to achieve. Out-of-town customers can also send in a digital image of their space from which the reps can work.

Art Works new framing studio located on the second floor of the gallery offers over 5,000 framing choices—by far the largest selection in the city. Original canvases, monoprints, giclees, limited editions and poster reproductions are all perfectly finished with the right frame to not only justly showcase the work, but to offset the space in which the piece will eventually hang.

Art Works Gallery is conveniently located on the edge of Yaletown in downtown Vancouver and offers free parking, as well as local delivery and worldwide shipping. 225 Smithe Street, Vancouver, B.C. 604-688-3301. www.artworksbc.com

Visit Art Works in October to see local artist Ken West’s “Shades of Light” exhibit—a representational interpretation of Vancouver landscape—until October 16th. “Amistad” opens October 18th and will showcase the works of Mexican and Canadian artists, in celebration of 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

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