Join us in celebrating regional talent at our annual New Year’s Artists in Action Event. This year, we are delighted to host three exceptional artists at the Wickaninnish on the Beach Building. Visit us from Saturday, December 30th, to Monday, January 1st, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to witness their creativity in action.

Craig Benson | Stone Carving

Craig was born in 1949 on Little Mountain in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. His interest in carving began as a hobby while he pursued a formal education in environmental studies. This passion for nature carried into his professional life, with a post-graduate career in wildlife management and habitat protection that immersed him in North America's wild landscapes and brought him closer to the artistic subjects he loved. After a transformative stay in Rivers Inlet on BC's remote central coast, Craig relocated with his young family to Victoria, BC, in 1987. By 1990, his combined love of art and nature led him to commit fully to a carving career. In May 1995, Craig’s longing for a life closer to the rugged coastal beauty of the region brought him to Piers Island, a small, tight-knit community in the Gulf Islands north of Victoria. There, he and his partner, Lynn, designed and built their home and studio, nestled in the island’s natural serenity. Craig is deeply inspired by the magic, mystery, and diversity of life on Earth. His work honors the creatures that share this planet with us, celebrating their beauty through every carving.

Location: Wickaninnish on the Beach | Lobby

Frank Armich | Wood Carving

Born on Vancouver Island, Frank Armich developed an early appreciation for the natural beauty of local woods. As a young apprentice in his father’s burl wood furniture and clock production business, Tidal Wave Manufacturing, Frank quickly honed the skills required to transform wood into functional and artistic creations. Today, Frank is a celebrated West Coast artist renowned for his diverse collection of handcrafted works, created from salvaged Old Growth Burl wood and other locally sourced woods like Bird’s Eye Maple, Yellow Cedar, Red Cedar, Hemlock, and Spruce. Each piece reflects his deep connection to the natural world and showcases the organic beauty of these reclaimed materials. Frank’s portfolio includes an array of remarkable creations: mirrors, mystical trees, bowls, wall hangings, driftwood art, and wind chimes. Additionally, he transforms roots and driftwood into one-of-a-kind furniture, including chairs, tables, lamps, and beds. His mirrors, in particular, stand out as spectacular works of art, crafted from reclaimed and air-dried West Coast wood dating back to the 1950s and 1970s. Frank invites you to experience the artistry and craftsmanship behind each unique piece, celebrating the timeless elegance of West Coast wood.

Location: Wickaninnish on the Beach | Lookout Library

Alicia La Rue | Acrylic Painting

At a young age, Alicia always knew that art was her life's path. Mosaics to Murals, throughout Alicia’s career, she creates with enthusiasm, meaning and passion. With a Bachelor of fine arts from Alberta University of the Arts, Alicia has been a freelance Artist for 16 years. Bringing her creativity to many different mediums, from digital design to painting large murals, Alicia has worked with organizations like the Robert Bateman Foundation on numerous
projects to designing sport events across Vancouver Island. Alicia has brought her creative ability to many different opportunities. Alicia's latest work has been live paintings and sculptures using lots of colour, expression and f to her work. Residing in Ucluelet, Alicia has sold her paintings around the globe. Focusing on selling only original paintings, each individual, with imagery of landscape and wildlife known to beautiful West Coast Vancouver Island. Alicia’s art has been shown in numerous galleries, stores and art shows across western Canada.

Location: Wickaninnish on the Beach | Henry Nolla Gallery