A Serendipitous Encounter at Pendulum Gallery: Inspiration from the Splash Art Auction
/Celebrating Canadian Artists, Arts Umbrella, and the eloquence of Paul Larocque.
The Splash Art Exhibit outside the Pendulum Gallery in downtown Vancouver, BC.
Recently, while enjoying a beautiful day in downtown Vancouver on my way back to Gabriola Island via the Hullo Ferry, I decided to stop by Pendulum Gallery. To my delight, I walked in serendipitously on the Splash Art Auction exhibit, a fundraising initiative supporting Arts Umbrella.
What I didn’t expect was to be treated to a deeply moving 45-minute tour given by Paul Larocque, former Associate Director of the Vancouver Art Gallery and current President & CEO of Arts Umbrella. Paul spoke about several selected Canadian artists and their studio practices with such respect, eloquence, and sincerity that I was truly awestruck.
His words made me feel so valued as a creator.
Listening to his thoughtful reflections reminded me that what we do as artists matters—that our creative practice is understood, respected, and deeply appreciated. I left Pendulum Gallery inspired and grateful, returning to my studio to paint with a renewed sense of purpose and joy.
About Pendulum Gallery
Pendulum Gallery is a unique cultural venue located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, inside the HSBC Building at 885 West Georgia Street. Free and open to the public, the gallery provides access to exhibitions that celebrate local and international artists. Learn more here: Pendulum Gallery – About.
About Splash Art Auction
Splash is Arts Umbrella’s flagship fundraising event. Since 1982, it has raised millions to provide accessible arts education for young people. Through the generosity of artists and donors, Splash supports programs in dance, theatre, and visual arts, helping to ignite creativity in future generations. More here: Splash Art Auction.
About Arts Umbrella
Arts Umbrella is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring creativity in young people aged 2–22. With locations across Vancouver, Surrey, and Granville Island, Arts Umbrella offers accessible, high-quality programs in visual and performing arts. Their mission is to transform young lives through the arts. Learn more: Arts Umbrella.
A heartfelt thank you to Paul Larocque for his personal touch, kindness, and passion for the arts. Your words uplifted me as both an artist and a human being.