14th annual IoTA Festival registration opens March 11

Gabriola Arts Council

As Gabriola Island warmly welcomes the returning light, the Gabriola Arts Council is gearing up for the much-anticipated 14th Isle of the Arts Festival (IoTA), set to take place from March 28th to April 7th.

Spring on Gabriola is a time for making, sharing, learning, exploring, and collaborating—this year in the spirit of “Strength, Resilience, and Creativity.” The festival invites residents and visitors alike to take a breath and discover what inspires in a unique blend of activities that encompass the diverse spectrum of multimedia arts, performance, culture, and culinary delights.

This year’s festival lineup boasts 30 engaging workshops and events in a wide range of artistic expressions, including writing, dancing, painting, sewing, weaving, cooking, music, movement, and more.

On March 28th, immerse yourself in concert with the extraordinary Joëlle Rabu and her son, multi-instrumentalist Nico Rhodes, who will create musicality and theatricality in an unforgettable evening of lively entertainment. On March 30th, join us for Reading and Reconciliation: a One Book One Community Event, hosted by Katherine Palmer Gordon and featuring award-winning Gitxsan journalist Angela Sterritt as they delve into her national bestselling novel, Unbroken—available at the library, and at Page’s Resort and Marina. On April 5th, treat yourself to a unique Indigenous culinary experience with Jared Qwustenuxun Williams, who will cook traditional dishes, including Pi’qwun salmon prepared over an open fire, and talk about their significance and value in Indigenous culture. Don’t miss the return of the Fun and Feisty Spring Night Market on April 5th, and be sure to attend the debuting Community Dance Social, hosted by Gwen Spinks on April 6th. IoTA will reach its pinnacle on April 7th with the Arty Party, where the prestigious Arty Award will be presented. Stay tuned: nominations for this esteemed award, recognizing outstanding contributions to arts and culture on Gabriola Island, will go live on artsgabriola.ca in February.

IoTA 2024’s incredible roster of happenings is a testament to the magic that happens when GAC collaborates with a diverse group of artists, writers, musicians, storytellers, and teachers to inspire and ignite the creative spirit within all participants. Join us in the spirit of celebration, inspiration, and education at this year’s Isle of the Arts Festival.

Mark your calendars! Registration for all events goes live on Monday March 11 for Gabriola Arts Council members, and Tuesday March 12 for the general public. If you’re not a GAC member yet and want to become one, visit https://artsgabriola.ca/join-gac/. We will love to have you!