Massive art auction returns to Vancouver with free public exhibition | Daily Hive

Arts Umbrella

One of the most highly anticipated galas in Vancouver’s fall event calendar is just around the corner, and you can get a sneak peek at the Splash Art Auction during a month-long free public exhibition.

Arts Umbrella’s Splash is one of Canada’s highest-profile charity art auctions, and it will be taking place on Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver.

Those wanting an early look at the amazing artworks up for grabs this year can visit a free public exhibition at the Pendulum Gallery from now until Thursday, Oct. 1. You can even make your early bids via online auction bidding.

Arts Umbrella

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“For more than four decades, Splash has celebrated the generosity of Canada’s artistic community while opening the door to life-changing arts education for young people,” said Paul Larocque, president and CEO of Arts Umbrella, in a release.

“The Pendulum Gallery exhibition gives everyone a chance to experience this incredible collection, while every bid helps empower the next generation to lead creative, courageous, and authentic lives.”

Arts Umbrella was founded in Vancouver in 1979 and has since grown to become Canada’s leading not-for-profit, charitable organization dedicated to arts education for children and youth. It serves approximately 20,000 young people annually, with nearly 79 per cent of those people accessing programming at no cost due to donor support.

Around 100 stunning artworks make up the Splash 2026 Art Collection on display at the Pendulum Gallery at 885 W. Georgia St. The public preview showcases the pieces of art donated by acclaimed and emerging Canadian and international artists.

Arts Umbrella

The lineup of artists this year includes Andrew Dadson, a multidisciplinary artist who explores the boundaries between painting, photography, installation, and the natural environment; Edward Burtynsky, one of the world’s most accomplished contemporary photographers; and Marie Khouri, a Paris and Vancouver-based sculptor whose contemporary works bridge art and design.

“Whether you are a passionate collector, art enthusiast, or seeking a new cultural experience, the Splash 2026 Art Collection Exhibition at the Pendulum Gallery will showcase works by some of today’s most compelling voices in Canadian art,” added Arts Umbrella in a statement.

Art lovers will also want to check out Splash 2026 at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver on Saturday, Oct. 3. Tickets are currently sold out, but you can get on the waitlist online.

The 44th gala event is hosted by Fred Lee and Gloria Macarenko and features an elegant reception and dinner, performances by the Arts Umbrella Dance Company and the Pre-Professional Musical Theatre Troupe, and a live auction led by Hank Bull.

Supporters without a ticket can also take in the festivities via the event’s online livestream.

Arts Umbrella

All funds raised from the night will be directed towards funding Arts Umbrella’s multidisciplinary arts education for children and youth.

“With nearly 75 per cent of students accessing programming at no cost, every donation and bid makes a lasting impact,” added Arts Umbrella in a statement. “Each artwork purchased helps ensure all young people – regardless of their financial circumstances – can access high-quality, life-enriching arts education.”

Splash – Free Preview Exhibition

When: Tuesday, Sept. 8 to Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026 (closed Sunday and stat holidays)
Time: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Monday to Wednesday), 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Thursday to Friday) and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Saturday)
Where: Pendulum Gallery — 885 W. Georgia St, Vancouver
Admission: Free, walk-ins welcome

Splash Art Auction Gala 2026

When: Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026
Where: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver — 900 W. Georgia St., Vancouver
Tickets: Join the waitlist to purchase tickets online

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