Van Dop Gallery

The first words upon entering this art gallery usually include «Wow!» This is because you’re not expecting to be completely surrounded by art the moment you walk in. From the outside, it’s an attractive house on a residential street. The home happens to belong to gallery owner Trudy Van Dop, who has created a commercial art gallery that ranges throughout the rooms of her modern yet personal space. It’s an example of living with visual art in all its forms.
Paintings hang everywhere, shelves and counters house ceramics and woodwork and carving, jewelry hangs near a corner window to catch the light. Even the washrooms are put to use as display space. There is also a beautiful garden at the side of the house that visitors can relax in. I loved being able to wander from room to room taking it all in, though I kept wondering to myself how one lives here without breaking valuable pieces on a daily basis.
The other thing to note, as I treaded carefully, is the eclectic, hand-​picked nature of the collection. Van Dop selects pieces from artists from across Canada, and even internationally, so you can find First Nations art, folk art, and contemporary art for your home here. She also publishes the Van Dop Arts and Cultural guide, so is also a very knowledgeable source on BC’s art scene.
Located in a residential neighbourhood, with little signage out front, you probably wouldn’t know the Van Dop is here unless you’re looking for it. They are generally open on Saturdays from 11 to 6, and at other times by appointment. But if you’re interested in art and you’re in the neighbourhood, don’t be afraid to knock on the door in order to see the facets of this amazing hidden gem.