Back to Journal

May 22, 2026

Exploring the Saanich Scattered Artists Tour This Weekend

There is something magical about late May on the West Coast. The ocean breeze carries the scent of blooming gardens, the coastal light softens, and the vibrant, creative community of Vancouver Island truly comes alive. If you are looking for the perfect weekend plan to soak in local culture, look no further than the Saanich Scattered Artists Tour, happening this Saturday and Sunday (May 23–24, 2026) from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

This is a free, self-guided tour inviting art lovers to step directly into seven beautiful garden settings and private studios nestled across the Cedar Hill and Swan Lake areas. Featuring 32 exceptional creators, it is a rare opportunity to meet the makers, experience the stunning landscapes that inspire them, and discover unique treasures for your home and collection.

A Haven for Fine Craft and Artisans

For those with an eye for exquisite detail, the tour is an absolute must-visit to connect with local artisans who pour their heart, technical precision, and coastal inspiration into every single piece. The event showcases an incredible breath of talent, ranging from master woodworkers and ceramicists to textile creators and stained glass masters.

Among the disciplines represented, the fine curation of handcrafted jewelry is always a major highlight of the tour. There is an undeniable romance in finding a piece of wearable art directly from the maker’s hands, knowing the exact studio environment and West Coast shorelines that inspired its creation. Whether you are drawn to the rich history of traditional metalsmithing or the intricate textures of modern casting, the jewelry on display represents the very best of local artisan dedication.

Featured Creators to Watch For:

As you chart your route through the map of “scattered” garden sanctuaries, a few well-known local artists and collectives deserve a prominent spot on your itinerary:

  • Trenova Designs (Trenova Fine Arts): Created by twin sisters Pilar and Loreto, Trenova is celebrated throughout Victoria BC for their breathtaking, nature-inspired fine art. Their brushstrokes beautifully capture the misty forests, peaceful seascapes, and majestic wildlife native to British Columbia. Their work is a profound love letter to the Earth, making their display a perfect sensory match for the lush garden settings of the tour.
  • Kari Frazer: Known for her evocative visual storytelling, Kari is a cornerstone of the local arts scene and one of the brilliant organizing forces helping to bring this entire neighborhood showcase to life.
  • Bob Fahlman: For those who appreciate structural elegance and tactile mastery, Fahlman’s exquisite woodworking showcases a deep reverence for the natural medium, turning raw wood into functional, flowing art.
  • Judi Beck & Clare Palmer: Bringing incredible depth to the tour’s fine art and mixed-media categories, these well-known names capture the vibrant color palettes and unique atmospheres that define Vancouver Island living.

Plan Your Perfect Weekend Art Stroll:

Because the tour focuses heavily on beautiful backyard settings and intimate neighborhood studios, it offers a beautifully relaxed, upscale alternative to a traditional, formal gallery environment. You can wander at your own pace, enter to win curated door prizes and gift baskets, and enjoy live music and refreshments under the spring canopy.

Whether you are a dedicated collector looking for a striking new canvas from Trenova Designs, an admirer of finely crafted jewelry, by Baroque Pearl Jewellwers, or simply looking to support the incredible artisans who make Victoria BC such a rich cultural hub, the Scattered Artists Tour is the ultimate celebration of local creativity.

Event Details:

  • What: Saanich Scattered Artists Tour
  • When: Saturday, May 23 & Sunday, May 24, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
  • Where: 7 locations across the Cedar Hill & Swan Lake areas (Saanich / Victoria, BC)
  • Admission: Free!

To download the official brochure and view the interactive studio map, head over to the official website at scatteredartists.ca.