Consistently voted one of the world’s most livable cities, Vancouver is a unique city, a melting pot of Victorian old–world cultures and new Asian influences, capped off with stunning natural beauty and cosmopolitan culture. The only major Canadian city on the West Coast, it has the feel of Seattle, Portland, San Francisco and Los Angeles, all merged into one.

The sparkling shoreline is never far from any point in the city, and just beyond are the stunning Coastal Mountains that dramatically rise straight up from turquoise inlets. Surrounding forests, lakes, islands and rivers have also enticed more than a few outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to take up residence in Vancouver. Combined with its reputation as as a modern metropolis for the millennium – socially and environmentally advanced, home to striking modern architecture and contemporary sculpture, and center to thriving artistic, creative, design and film communities – it’s no wonder the city is such a desirable place to visit.

Over the last half–century, Vancouver art has developed as an international presence – informed by exposure to and inclusion in global cultural developments, and paired with landmark exhibitions at home. With such stars as Jeff Wall, Rodney Graham, and Brian Jungen paired with influential museums and art centers such as the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Vancouver Contemporary Art Gallery, and Centre A, the Vancouver International Centre for Asian Contemporary Art, the city has become a dynamic art destination.