Steveston’s 13th Annual Grand Prix of Art took place on July 22, 2023 in various scenic locations around the village, with a home base located at our very own Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site. Throughout the morning, spectators gathered to witness 130 artists race against the clock to complete a work of art at one of the 35 randomly assigned locations stretching from Garry Point Park to London Landing. It was a sight to see Steveston come alive with art, creativity, excitement, support, and admiration.
The competition began at 10am, and a mere three hours later, when the clock struck 1pm, the artists returned to Britannia Shipyards, along with hundreds of spectators, volunteers and community members to celebrate and enjoy live music, food trucks, and a vibrant artisan market.
Throughout the weekend, live music by Nikita Alfonso, Crabgrass, Blue Dirt Girl, and Moria Chicilo entertained visitors and artists alike. There was something for everyone, including delicious food from Baba’s House, Bread and Cheese, Coffee Box, and Steveston Bakery. In addition, artists and visitors enjoyed making relief prints at Phoenix Art Workshop, watched ceramic demonstrations by Nima Stoneware, and browsed the carefully curated artisans market, featuring unique local clothing brands, beautiful silver jewelry, hand-crafted woodworking, and building flower bouquets from Daisy’s Bloom.
At 3pm, after all the artwork was prepped and framed, the Seine Net Loft opened its doors to a lineup of people eager to see the final exhibition of the finished work, and a chance to buy their favourite pieces to take home. On Saturday, over 900 people entered in under 3 hours and Sunday saw more than 1,000 visitors. The support and appreciation for the massive talent of all the artists was overwhelming, and to top it off, this year’s event put over $18,000 into the hands of the artists.
Huge thanks to the organizers of this event, Phoenix Art Workshop, and to the artists who participated, the volunteers, and to all who visited to help make this event so special. It was truly moving to see the community’s love and support for the arts. We hope to everyone return again for next year.
