arts alive 2025

Arts Alive is Oak Bay Parks, Recreation & Culture’s yearly public art program. This exhibition of sculpture is displayed for 10 months at outdoor sites in our municipality. Oak Bay Public Arts Program is an expression of our district’s commitment to a flourishing arts environment for the economic, social and personal benefit of our entire community. It is also an important attraction for visitors and tourists.

The municipality installs the sculptures in a variety of outdoor locations around Oak Bay. The annual and permanent collection of sculptures frames views, animates parks, streetscapes and gathering areas. The sculptures have been greatly appreciated for their artistic merit and have encouraged viewers to pause and reflect about living in and visiting this special seaside community. The collection includes realistic and abstract pieces, both kinetic and static. They are made of a variety of materials including metal, stone, mixed media and mosaic and express each sculptor’s personal style and interpretation of the yearly theme.

The annual exhibition of sculpture is chosen by a jury from works submitted by artists from the region. Selected sculptures are on temporary loan by each sculptor, sponsored by local business and community groups.

Theme for 2025

9th Annual “Open” (No Theme) Juried Sculptural Exhibition

Artists are invited to produce and submit original work of their choice. The jury is interested in hearing artists answers the following questions:

• What inspires you and your artistic process at this time?
• What are the issues, trends or influences that are affecting your work?
• How do you relate to your work or artistic process?

Information for Artists

This is an excellent opportunity for both emerging and mid-career artists to showcase their work.

Artists are invited to reflect on their arts practice, current or past.

Artist’s work will have exposure to thousands of residents and visitors in this high-profile program. The municipality, local media and Oak Bay Tourism will promote this show throughout the year. Related arts events like art walks, paint-ins, concerts, and celebrations will be organized, generating excitement and building community.

• Work will be displayed for approximately 1 year.
• Proposals will be reviewed by a volunteer jury.
• Depending on community sponsorships, up to 10 works may be selected.
• Selected works will be installed in highly visible outdoor locations open to the public.

Arts Alive 2024-2025 Key Dates

• May 5, 2025 ~ New artwork delivered to Oak Bay Public Works Yard.
• June 9, 2025 ~ Installation of 2025 Arts Alive artwork complete.
• July 17, 2024 ~ TENATIVE Arts Alive opening celebration and tour.
• April/May 2026 ~ De-Installation of 2025-2026 Arts Alive artwork complete.