Advancing the Knowledge and Appreciation of Canadian Art
The Federation of Canadian Artists exists to advance the knowledge and appreciation of art and culture among all Canadians. Through education, exhibition, and communication in the visual arts, we open the door to creative discovery for audiences and artists across the country.
At the heart of our work is a commitment to artists at every stage of the journey. From emerging talents taking their first steps to established professionals, we support, promote, and champion the people who shape Canada’s visual arts landscape.
Who We Are: A Legacy Rooted in 1941
The Federation of Canadian Artists (FCA) is a registered charity founded in 1941 by professional Canadian working artists — including Group of Seven luminaries Lawren Harris, Arthur Lismer, and A.Y. Jackson. The first National Executive Council was led by André Biéler, with Lawren Harris serving as the BC region’s first Chairman. Other notable founding members included Emily Carr and the Honourable Mark Kearley.
More than eight decades later, the FCA continues to operate as a registered charity, with members throughout Canada and Chapters in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario. We remain dedicated to raising artistic standards — inspiring our community toward greater knowledge and achievement through what is believed to be the first completely artist-sponsored gallery in Canada. Today, the Federation holds a distinction unmatched nationwide: it is the only national-level visual arts organization that owns and manages its own full-time art gallery.
Our reach extends well beyond the walls of the gallery. The FCA stages special collaborative exhibitions with other Canadian art societies and hosts an extensive education program — workshops, classes, critiques, and lectures in the fine arts media — led by accomplished, established artists who help every participant explore and develop their talent. Membership is open to all who appreciate art.
On Granville Island
The Federation Gallery
The Federation Gallery sits in the heart of Vancouver’s art and culture community, on Granville Island. It features twice-monthly juried exhibitions of work by emerging and Signature members, alongside three celebrated international open shows held each year: Painting on the Edge, the Annual International Representational Exhibition, and the Annual International Mail-in Art Exhibition.
We gratefully acknowledge the support of CMHC, whose subsidy of our gallery lease and stewardship of Granville Island has made the long-term operation of our gallery sustainable.