About Chilliwack Arts
Founded in 1960, the Chilliwack Arts Council is a registered charitable arts organization based in Chilliwack. We program, promote, and advocate for the arts and local artists while providing residents and visitors access to bold, inspiring, and engaging experiences.
The organization traces its roots to Marion Orme, a Ryder Lake Women's Institute member in the late 1950s who believed culture was essential to a good education and life. She approached Mary Allan to help organize what would eventually become the CAC.
FOUNDERS STORY
Marion
Orme
Marion Orme was a quiet, reserved woman who received great satisfaction from bringing out the artistic ability in others. In the late 1950s, she was a Ryder Lake Women’s Institute member, which was involved in arranging some traveling galleries to show at the Ryder Lake community hall and St. Thomas Anglican church.
Mrs. Orme believed that culture was essential to a good education and life. She often said she was not an organizer, saying, “I couldn’t be president.” On that premise, she approached Mrs. Mary E. Allan, who had come to Ryder Lake to speak to the women’s institute about the Red Cross. Mary Allan accepted the challenge immediately.
Welcome to the Chilliwack Community Arts Council
Chilliwack Community Arts Council is a vibrant hub for artists and art enthusiasts in our community. We are dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts in Chilliwack, offering a wide range of programs, events, and resources. We aim to foster creativity, inspire artistic expression, and cultivate a thriving arts community.
Whether you are an artist looking for opportunities to showcase your work or someone who appreciates and supports the arts, we invite you to join us in celebrating the power of creativity.
