Oak Bay Arts Alive 2025

Will You Be Part of the Story?

Something extraordinary is unfolding this summer on Vancouver Island… but what exactly? Whispers of large-scale sculptures popping up in unexpected places, an opening celebration buzzing with energy, and a public vote that could decide the future of public art in our communities. Curious? Keep reading—your insider’s guide to Oak Bay Arts Alive 2025 awaits!

Event Overview

Aspect	Details
Date	July 17, 2025 – mark it!
Time	Celebratory launch on the 17th (exact times TBC via Oak Bay events calendar)
Duration	Sculptures remain on display through November—your public vote runs July–Nov
Location	Across Oak Bay public sites—sculpture walk map available on Oak Bay’s website

Aspect

Details

Date

July 17, 2025 – mark it!

Time

Celebratory launch on the 17th (exact times TBC via Oak Bay events calendar)

Duration

Sculptures remain on display through November—your public vote runs July–Nov

Location

Across Oak Bay public sites—sculpture walk map available on Oak Bay’s website

What Is Arts Alive?

Oak Bay Arts Alive, now in its ninth year, is a juried exhibition that transforms public spaces into an open-air gallery. Around 6–10 sculptures by celebrated BC artists are showcased outdoors from May to November, with many pieces chosen for Oak Bay’s permanent collection each year.

Juried selection: A peer jury evaluates submissions for curatorial excellence.
People’s Choice competition: From July onward, you can vote for your favourite sculpture. The top three are reconsidered for purchase by Oak Bay—supporting local artists and enriching the community.

Featured Sculptures (2025 Selection)

Taking Flight 2.0 – Angellos Glaros

Midwestern Summer – Andrew Hellmund

Good Mourning – Claire Anderson

The Kiss – David Hunwick

Modern Man Does Research – Ron Simmer

Cosmos Wheels – Doug Taylor

Plus Works by

Opening Celebration & Guided Tour

Date: July 17 – coincide with the launch
Activities:
✅ Guided tour with music and artist talks
✅ Meet the creators and community sponsors
✅ Light refreshments served
Why attend: It’s your chance to learn the stories behind each piece and be among the first to vote in the People’s Choice competition.

Public Participation: How to Vote

Use the official Sculpture Walk Map (available online or printed).
Explore at your own pace—perfect for a scenic summer stroll or bike tour.
Cast your vote online between July 17 and November, then watch Oak Bay’s jury deliberate the top three selections.

Disclaimer

Vanislander provides information for general reference only. We do not assume responsibility for any changes, cancellations, or modifications made by third parties. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official websites or social media channels of the respective organizers or businesses.

Planning Your Visit

Getting There

Oak Bay is easily accessible by car, bike, and public transit from Victoria. Street parking and bike racks available near park sites.

Best Times

Mid-summer (July–August) offers the warmest weather.
Weekends are bustling; weekday mornings offer a quieter experience.

Nearby Highlights

Painted Pianos – interactive art installations placed from late June to early September; free to play from 9 a.m.–8 p.m. daily.

Visitor Tips

Bring your camera—many sculptures are interactive or crafted for intriguing photo compositions.
Dress for the weather—typical July temperatures: 18–22 °C.
Stay hydrated—carry water, especially if walking between sites.
Combine your visit with seaside stops: Willows Beach, Turkey Head, or local cafés make the perfect pair.

Why You Should Go

Totally free and accessible to everyone.
Support BC artists and have a say in what becomes permanent public art.
Fun, enriching experience for solo travellers, couples, families.
Cultural immersion in a charming community that celebrates creativity.

What Awaits You

Expect to be surprised. Whether it's the scale of "Taking Flight 2.0", the emotional depth in "Good Mourning", or the rhythmic harmony of "Midwestern Summer", Arts Alive 2025 invites you to connect with art in a fresh way—outdoors, on your terms, in one of Vancouver Island’s most beautiful neighbourhoods.
Save July 17 for the launch, give yourself a few weeks to explore the sculptures, vote for your favourite, and see if it becomes a lasting legacy for Oak Bay. This is one summer experience you won’t want to miss.

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