Our History:

The Old School Arts Centre heritage building was built in 1912 and served the educational needs of Qualicum Beach for both elementary and secondary school until 1952, when a new secondary school was built. The Board of Education used the building until 1985.

As the wrecking ball swung closer and closer to the building, dedicated citizens of the community banded together and formed a non-profit cultural association. With the help of many volunteers, countless hours of hard work and fundraising events, the building was renovated and opened to the public in February 1988.

To learn more watch this short and informative segment about the history of TOSH as part of the Parksville Qualicum Beach Historic Tour film series:

You can read more about the incredible story of how an old building was saved and restructured into an art gallery in the official TOSH history by Brad Wylie in the ebook below:

HELP KEEP ART IN SESSION!

Art is essential to a vibrant community, and it takes resources to sustain the vision we’re committed to. As a registered non-profit charity, we rely on the generosity of our donors; people who understand the value of art, and its capacity for good. The artists, teachers, students, musicians, and volunteers who belong to this house bring limitless potential to our region, and your support ensures that art has a permanent place here in Qualicum Beach.