Nanaimo Artists Tina Fabbro, Camille Marquis, Yvonne Vander Kooi, Debbie Melnick, Eve Reinarz and Titia Jetten at Studio 366.

Art builds creative partnerships and friendships

Studio 366 is located in downtown Nanaimo, BC in the Arts District. A colourful and vibrant storefront studio with warm and welcoming art in the windows, the gallery is a gathering place where artists of all abilities can come together to create and have conversations based on their love and interest in art. No labels need apply.

Studio 366 is a volunteer operated project of Start with Art Nanaimo (SWAN), a non profit society with the goal of building inclusive and supportive community with art. Their aim is to present opportunities for artistic expression that can inspire and encourage new and emerging artists to bring their art to life in the Central Island region. “Art needs to be accessible and available to all people,” says Eve Reinarz, artist and member of SWAN. “No matter your background in art or your artistic abilities, everyone is welcome to drop in. Art is everywhere, if we have a more artful life we will all be happier,” says Eve.

Tina Fabbro, an artist, member of SWAN, local service provider and a member of the Central Island Community Council, believes that art is a tool to build community. “It is exciting to walk into a community art space and see art hanging on the wall from diverse artists. When we identify as artists it opens up exciting possibilities for creative partnerships and friendships,” says Tina.

Camille and Yvonne are two artists who like to work in the studio. Camille has been an artist all of her life and her art is quite popular.

“I have a hard time parting with my art, it is a part of me,” says Camille. Yvonne is a painter and enjoys being part of a community art studio. “I am a proponent of art and community and how it is a great vehicle for people to come together and cross barriers,” says Yvonne.

If you find yourself in the Nanaimo area, drop in and check-out Studio 366. You might even discover your inner artist. For more info on Studio 366 and SWAN visit their website at https://sites.google.com/site/startwithartnanaimo/home or email artspace366@gmail.com.