Vancouver Outsider Arts Festival

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The Vancouver Outsider Arts Festival, which celebrates artists who work outside mainstream cultural spaces, will run Oct. 14 to Oct. 16 at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre.

The sixth annual festival, presented by the Community Arts Council of Vancouver, invites visitors to rethink creativity at society's peripheries through its free exhibitions, performances and workshops. 

"Outsider art shakes up what we think and know about art, challenging traditional notions about who and what counts in the art world," says Kristin Cheung, the council's executive director.

"These artists have various levels of training and come from diverse cultural backgrounds, bringing with them a variety of life experiences. Their art often addresses difficult social and political issues head on. There is an amazing richness in the work that will leave viewers with a greater sense of community and a deeper understanding of those around them."

Exhibitors were selected through a lottery from a pool of eligible artists who self-identify as outsiders, demonstrate commitment to their practice, and have a substantial body of work. 

The festival features some 60 Metro Vancouver artists and artist groups with diverse creative practices. Returning artists include the Vancouver Cantonese Opera, multi-disciplinary artist Charlie Sandeman and visual artist Penny N. Lim. New artists include singer-songwriter Jason Qiu, the Troupe de Poetry and drag king Heathen.

A free concert featuring past performers will be held at the Annex Theatre at 6 p.m. on Oct. 29. A touring exhibition will be shown across the Lower Mainland starting in December and continuing into fall 2023. 

Source: Community Arts Council of Vancouver