About Us

VIVAS was founded in 2022 as a response to a dire lack of affordable space for artists in the Greater Victoria area. With over a decade of experience providing below-market studio and exhibition spaces, VIVAS founder Logan Ford saw the need to create a non-profit society to work with both public and private sectors to ensure that artists in Victoria have the resources they need to continue to live and work in the region. VIVAS currently manages Victoria’s largest visual arts hub at 780 Blanshard st., where over 80 artists, 4 galleries, and 5 arts organizations have access to deeply affordable creative space in the heart of the city.

VIVAS is committed to making the arts accessible through free public programming, artist residencies, and educational opportunities. By engaging the community and providing platforms for artistic expression, these initiatives help artists thrive while enriching Victoria’s cultural landscape. VIVAS works to ensure a stable and affordable future for artists in Victoria by building connections between artists, local and provincial governments, and property owners in the creation of mutually beneficial outcomes, allowing artists and arts organizations to continue to bring colour and vibrancy to the city of Victoria.

Our Mission

Our mission is to acquire, expand, and protect critical arts and cultural spaces through cooperation with public and private sectors. By offering affordable studio and exhibition spaces, free public programming, and educational opportunities, we provide a dynamic and supportive environment for artistic growth and community engagement.

Our Vision

We envision a future where artists of all backgrounds and financial means have the opportunity to create, exhibit, and grow. Through affordability, inclusivity, and community engagement, VIVAS strives to make Vancouver Island a leader in accessible and diverse artistic expression.

Our Mandate

Our society's purposes are:

Acquiring, leasing, and managing properties for the purpose of facilitating artist studios 
Providing affordable workspaces for artists and organizations that support the arts Facilitating interactive arts events, exhibitions, and open studio tours 
Providing artists with funding and artist residencies 
Curating exhibitions and promoting excellence in the field of visual arts
Providing educational venues and programs related to visual arts 
Advocating for artists’ needs

Board of Directors
 
Ian George - Board Chair
Kay Gallivan  - Vice President
Anne-Sophie Cournoyer - Secretary
Nev Gibson - Treasurer
Sarah Todd - Director
Natalie Rollins - Director
Carla Sorrell - Director

Staff

Logan Ford - Founder, Executive Director