This September newsletter of 2026 features local artist Sheila Norgate, upcoming events and contests, and some exciting ways to engage with the Nanaimo Arts Council going forward. If you’ve got an event or announcement, submit them to the linked forms to be included in next month’s edition!

Celebrated Canadian visual artist Sheila Norgate is having a 40-year retrospective of her work called A NOT SO STILL LIFE. The show will feature a number of original works from her long career plus a selection of new work which will be offered for sale. On Sunday Norgate will give a talk.

Join the Nanaimo Art Gallery for two screenings of films by Jumana Manna, that trace connections between people and plants in conflict zones. The two distinct events are presented alongside the exhibition Biophilia at the Nanaimo Art Gallery.

Doors open at 6:45 PM and the film starts at 7:00 PM.

Interested in being a part of discussions to bring positive environmental change to Nanaimo? Join the launch of Green Revolt Action Group. The first session’s topic is on composting in Nanaimo.

Join us on an immersive field-journaling retreat in central Mexico, exploring the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, forest trails, and vibrant cultural sites. With daily guidance in pen, pencil, watercolor, and ARTful journaling, you’ll combine images, words, and collected materials to tell your travel story. Through demos in composition, sketching, and lettering, you’ll slow down, see deeply, and capture meaningful moments—focusing on process over perfection. Led by art instructor Carla Flegel and limited to 14 participants.

Join us at Maffeo Sutton Park on Saturday, October 10, from 2:00-6:00 PM for a free afternoon of fall activities, creativity and community connection.