ABOUT US

our history | who we are | our values

A line art pattern with symmetrical, abstract floral designs in blue on a white background.

The Arts Council of the Central Okanagan (ARTSCO) supports, promotes, and activates the arts across the Okanagan region.

We create opportunities for artists at all stages of their careers through exhibitions, mentorship, and public programming. Our work brings art into everyday spaces—galleries, streets, and screens—making creative experiences accessible to all.

With support from the City of Kelowna, BC Arts Council, Canadian Heritage, and other partners, ARTSCO fosters an arts ecosystem that reflects the diverse voices, stories, and experiences of our region.

Each project and partnership is a chance to strengthen our community and reimagine what accessible, inclusive art experiences can look like. We’re here to uplift artists at all stages—amateur, emerging, and established—and to champion the role of the arts in shaping a vibrant, connected Okanagan valley.

Light Up Kelowna

Youth Council of Artists

Our History

Founded in the early 1950s and registered as a charity in 1968, ARTSCO has been a vital part of the Central Okanagan’s artistic community. Our mission focuses on supporting local artists and providing innovative, accessible art experiences for the public.

Located in Studio 205 of the Rotary Centre for the Arts, we serve the regions of Kelowna, West Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, Peachland, and Lake Country. Our programming promotes artistic excellence, accessibility, and inclusivity, featuring professionally curated exhibitions at the ARTSCO Community Gallery and a Resource Centre dedicated to creating a barrier-free environment.

ARTSCO acts as a connector, fostering discussions on important issues such as climate change and cultural identity. By exploring these themes, we commit to preserving the rich heritage of the Okanagan Valley. In 2020, we established the Council of Artists to empower local creators through guidance on exhibition quality and best practices, further enhancing our dedication to inclusivity.

Our core values—collaboration, transparency, effectiveness, and vibrancy—drive us to build partnerships and create new opportunities for artistic expression. We are on a journey to ensure cultural safety and respect for the Okanagan Syilx territory, the land where we live, love, and play.

ARTSCO is registered as a charity and ARTSCO expands its Civic Awards program to include a Teen Honour in the Arts Award.
ARTSCO opens new Art Centre at the corner of Bernard & Richter, which is now the French Cultural Centre
Honour in the Arts Award created in the City of Kelowna’s Civic Awards after lobbying by ARTSCO – this program continues to run today.
ARTSCO is founded (known as KADAC – Kelowna and District Arts Council until 2006)
Artscape Exhibition program begins – this program continues to run today.
Created and Hosted the Central Okanagan Open Studio Tour program.
Okanagan Arts Magazine launches with the goal to highlight local artists and provide the general public a tangible resource for arts-related events and individuals in the Central Okanagan community. Magazine runs until 2008.
Forms Youth Arts Council. Youth Arts Council offered Open Mic nights, opportunities to exhibit work, mentorship, and networking for youth. Runs until 2012.
Mad Hatter pop-up installation and sculpture exhibition begins. Runs until 2014.
60 Artists in 60 Spaces to Celebrate ARTSCO’s 60th Anniversary.
ARTSCO moves into the Rotary Centre for the Arts (RCA)

who we are

The Arts Council’s Board of Directors is made up of key community arts organizations, artists, arts educators, and professionals who have the skills, the community support, the capability, and the commitment to take action as required to keep pace with the growth of the arts in our community and to enhance the Arts Council’s position in the areas of arts advocacy and education.