Pacific Arts Market Grand Opening

The Pacific Arts Market celebrated its grand opening on Saturday, July 11, 2026, establishing a new art gallery and active community space in downtown Nanaimo, British Columbia. Located on Wallace Street at the site of the former A&B Sound store, the market focuses on showcasing locally made art and goods.

Owner Crystal Cornthwaite, who previously operated the market in Vancouver, expressed enthusiasm for the new "amazing space" dedicated to local artists. The market displays a diverse range of items including photography, paintings, pottery, soap, candles, and felting, all sourced primarily from Nanaimo and throughout British Columbia.

Beyond being a gallery, the Pacific Arts Market is designed as an "active" community hub. It plans to host regular events, such as demonstrations, workshops, and artist talks throughout the year. The market also serves as the art zone for the Commercial Street Night Market, holding weekly events every Thursday evening. Cornthwaite noted her pleasure in being part of the revitalized, iconic old building, drawing interest from visitors fascinated by both the building and the art within.