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Splash 2025 Unveiled: Art, Impact, and Inspiration

Arts Umbrella’s iconic Splash Art Auction – presented by Nicola Wealth and co-chaired by Christie Garofalo and Bruce Munro Wright, O.B.C. – returns for its 43rd year, continuing its legacy of changing young lives through the power of art. A cornerstone of Vancouver’s cultural calendar, Splash 2025 invites the public to experience art in ways that inspire, connect, and transform. With its blend of a public exhibition, early online bidding, and a dazzling gala, this year’s event reaffirms the enduring impact of creativity on community.

EXPERIENCE ART, CHAMPION YOUNG CREATIVES

On September 8th, the Pendulum Gallery (885 W. Georgia Street) unveiled the Splash 2025 Art Collection, featuring 92 works donated by acclaimed and emerging Canadian and international artists. Open to the public until October 2, this free exhibition offers a rare chance to stand in the presence of bold, thought-provoking works that embody the spirit of Splash. The gallery’s extended hours make this exhibition an accessible cultural highlight for art lovers, collectors, and those simply seeking inspiration.

At the same time, art enthusiasts can begin placing bids through splashartauction.com, engaging with the collection in anticipation of the live event. “We are thrilled to work with the Pendulum Gallery to preview the amazing art pieces that have been so generously donated by artists from across Canada,” said Paul Larocque, president and CEO of Arts Umbrella.

SPOTLIGHT ON FEATURED ARTISTS

The 2025 collection reflects a vibrant spectrum of voices shaping contemporary art. Highlights include Moses Salihou’s portraits infused with abstraction, Maggie Hall’s hyperrealist paintings charged with pop culture energy, and Cole Speck’s carvings that bridge traditional Kwakwaka’wakw artistry with contemporary narratives.

Photography by Jamie Lee Fuoco (@jamieleefuoco)

Other contributors include Kim Dorland, who reimagines Canadian landscapes with emotional resonance; Russna Kaur, whose layered works expand through digital and mixed media; Jonathan Syme, whose experiments in colour and form challenge painting’s conventions; Ian Wallace, a pioneer of the Vancouver School who merges photography with painting; and Charlene Vickers, whose mixed media creations honour identity and ancestral roots. Together, these artists underscore the breadth and dynamism of Canadian and international art today.

THE BIG NIGHT

The anticipation culminates on Saturday, October 4, when over 600 guests will gather at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Hosted by Fred Lee and Gloria Macarenko, the evening promises elegant dining, live performances by Arts Umbrella students, and a spirited live auction led by Hank Bull. A simultaneous livestream will extend the celebration across Canada and beyond, ensuring the energy of the night resonates far and wide.

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Each piece sold directly supports Arts Umbrella’s mission, making high-quality arts education accessible to young people, regardless of financial means. “Splash is more than our flagship fundraiser – it’s a vital gateway for thousands of young people to access the transformative power of the arts,” notes Larocque.

MAKE AN IMPACT

Funds raised through Splash 2025 sustain programming for young people ages 2 to 22, including free outreach classes, scholarships, and bursaries. With nearly 75 percent of students participating at no cost, every ticket, donation, and bid contributes to shaping creative, authentic, and courageous lives.

Tickets to the Splash 2025 Art Auction are available now at artsumbrella.com/events/splash-2025. To donate, get involved, or stay informed, visit artsumbrella.com.

Feature Image: Lincoln Clarkes (@lincoln.clarkes)

PREVIEW NIGHT AT PENDULUM – AN AUDAIN FOUNDATION PRESENTED EVENT

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Author Profile

Helen Siwak, Luxury Lifestyle Observer: Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].