The CVRD plays a vital role in enhancing the cultural vitality of the Cowichan Region. Since 2016, the Arts & Culture Division’s mandate aims to develop creative sectors across the region through a dedicated service function.

This government function provides annual funding for five sub-regional arts councils. An annual grant fund also provides an opportunity for local organizations to offer creative programming for community benefit and entertainment. Two youth scholarships get awarded to support young artists ambitions and careers.

Under the direction of the Arts & Culture Division Manager, the fully-equipped Cowichan Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) offers a professional theatre space for both touring acts and local groups. Please see the CPAC website for additional information on the regional theatre.

Read the first annual Arts Impact Report!

The 2024 Arts Impact Report highlights the cultural initiatives of the CVRD and the value of the creative sector across the region.

The report demonstrates that cultural activities offered a significant, positive impact on the local economy and community offerings in 2024. “The arts offer more than just economic benefit by creating opportunities for connection, increasing wellbeing, and enhancing the beauty of our communities,” said Patrick LeBlanc, Manager of CVRD Arts & Culture Division.

“This report helps communicate the impact of the region’s cultural sector. Understanding the significance of the arts and culture scene is crucial to ensuring its long-term sustainability.”

 Stats from the 2024 Impact Report:

• In 2022, the arts and culture sectors provided $78 million of the CVRD’s GDP.

• 10 organizations received arts and culture grants in 2024. Their combined programming contributed an estimated $4.8 million economic spinoff in the region

Read the full report here: 2024 Arts Impact Report

Creative Cowichan: Arts & Culture Master Plan

The CVRD proudly presents their five-year arts and culture strategy, Creative Cowichan: Arts & Culture Master Plan. The plan provides a framework to enhance and support the arts across the region. The CVRD supports opportunities to nurture talent, enhance creative industries, draw inspiration from nature, and reflect the region’s diversity.

Working with the consultant team, Happy Cities, this “made in Cowichan” plan developed through eight months of community engagement. The CVRD heard from over 1,500 residents on how to best support creative spaces, activities, partnerships, and funding opportunities. Review Round 1 and Round 2 of the Engagement Summary Reports for details on how the plan’s strategies developed. 

The CVRD Arts & Culture Division Responsibilities:

• Support arts and culture initiatives across the region, through the implementation of the Creative Cowichan Plan
• Operate the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre
• Fund the sub-regional arts councils throughout the Cowichan Region
  • Cowichan Valley Arts Council https://cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca/
  • Cowichan South Arts Guild https://cowichansouthartsguild.com/
  • Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society https://cvcas.ca/
  • Cowichan Lake Arts and Culture Society https://www.cowichanlakeartsandculture.org/
  • Arts Council of Ladysmith & District https://www.ladysmitharts.ca/
• Provide Regional Arts & Culture Grants for eligible arts & culture organizations who qualify

Arts & Culture Division Mandate:

• Act as a resource for the creative community of the Cowichan Region
• Develop arts initiatives and foster collaboration throughout the Cowichan Region
• Advocate for the impact and value of arts within the region
• Provide a rich diversity of national and international stage performances at CPAC