Jay Shah
DevOps\Aerospace Engineer & Journalist
Hey there, art enthusiasts and festival lovers! This one’s going to a bit different in the sense that the festivals still going on by the time this will be posted BUT NEVERTHELESS the experience I’ll take you through remains the same! (Please do check & support these wonderful artists whenever you’re reading this, in this age of AI generated content a lil bit of human touch is going be wonderful for everyone!)
It’s that time of year again when Vancouver’s Eastside Arts District bursts into life with the 4th annual
CREATE! Eastside Arts Festival!
From Monday, July 22nd to Sunday, July 28th, this festival is your go-to destination for all things creative. Offering a week-long immersive experience that connects the vibrant local art scene with the wider community. Whether you’re there to create, appreciate, or simply revel in the lively atmosphere, this festival promises a week full of unforgettable moments.
Imagine strolling through pop-up art studios, getting hands-on in exciting workshops, and enjoying live music that sets the perfect summer vibe. Whether you’re a long-time art aficionado or just looking for a fun way to spend your week, CREATE! has something for everyone.
One of the workshops I managed to experience was about:
Zines!
Doodles & Zine Making Workshop
This workshop was led by the super talented Kaodraws (Angel), a Taiwanese-born, Vancouver-based artist who mixes graffiti, modern art, cartoons, and dreamy vibes into her work. She set the perfect tone for a fun and creative session.
Born in Taipei, Angel moved to Canada at the age of seven. She describes her art as “surreal dreamscape,” though others have compared it to the lowbrow art movement. Her work often embraces themes of life and death or space and time in her digital work, doodles, and paintings, focusing on eyes, hands, and mouths—elements critical to communication.
“Those are powerful tools to me and they come up in my art a lot,” she shared.
“I teach different ways to draw the eyes, mouth, face, and eyebrows to give characters more expression,” Angel explained. “Then, we’ll move on to creating an eight-page zine comic of their choice on whatever subject.”
Angel’s art often embeds messages in her digital works. Take her mural, What’s The Rush?, painted in 2022 on the wall of the Jackson’s General store building at 1490 Kingsway in Vancouver.
“There’s a lot of traffic going down Kingsway,” Angel tells Pancouver by phone. “If cars are driving through pretty quickly, I wanted to make the text really bold and big and easy to read. And I wanted to remind drivers—and also myself, too—what’s the rush when you’re driving?”
And below is her own personal Zine she made during the workshop based on meditation!
“It’s the polar opposite,” Angel says with a chuckle. “I thought it was funny.”
“I dream quite a bit—almost every day—and I have a dream journal,” Angel disclosed. “A lot of my art influence comes from that.”
A Personal Journey into Creativity
Hosted at the eclectic Off the Rail Brewing Co; from the moment I walked in, the vibe was buzzing with creative energy. The setting at the brewery was perfect—casual and friendly, making it easy to relax and let the creativity flow. Plus, being around other art lovers all doing their thing was incredibly motivating.
Angel kicked things off by showing us some cool doodling techniques and encouraging us to let our minds wander and our hands follow. Her easygoing and inclusive style made everyone feel right at home, no matter their skill level.
We got all the materials we needed to make our very own 8 to 16-page zines. As someone who loves to doodle but doesn’t always find the time, this was the perfect chance to really dive in. Her tips were both inspiring and super practical—she showed us how to blend different styles and elements into our zines, from intricate patterns to bold, expressive strokes.
One of the best parts was seeing everyone’s zines come to life, each one totally unique and full of personality. There were zines that told personal stories, others that explored abstract ideas, and some that were just a joyful explosion of colors and shapes. Angel’s feedback was always positive, helping us push our creative boundaries.
By the end of the session, I had a completed zine that I was super proud of.
More importantly, I left with a fresh wave of creativity and the urge to keep doodling and making zines. This workshop wasn’t just about picking up a new skill—it was about rediscovering the joy of creating something with your own hands.
Attending this was definitely a highlight of my week and showed just how much talent and community spirit the festival brings together.
In one of my previous posts, “Gastown Townhall 2024: Strengthening Our Community”, I covered this area extensively, delving into its rich history and the ongoing efforts to foster community growth and engagement. This artistic explosion is a testament to these efforts, bringing together diverse voices and talents to celebrate the unique spirit of this neighborhood.
I’m so pumped for the upcoming session at the park and if you ever get the chance to join a workshop like this, DO IT—it’s an experience that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to create more!
Now the folks who’re still reading ( god bless your attention span fr!), let’s delve in to give this festival a bit of context:
A Rich Tapestry: The Origins and Impact
Since its inception, the festival has grown in size and popularity, becoming one of Vancouver’s most anticipated annual events. Each year, it attracts thousands of attendees who come to experience the unique cultural fabric of the Eastside. The festival’s inclusive approach encourages participation from artists across various disciplines, including visual arts, performing arts, and multimedia. This diverse range of activities ensures that there is something for everyone, making the festival a true celebration of community and creativity.
Established to celebrate and showcase the rich diversity of Vancouver’s Eastside Arts District. This area is renowned for its vibrant arts community, serving as a longstanding hub for creative expression. Over the years, the Eastside has become home to numerous artists, studios, and cultural institutions that contribute to the district’s dynamic and eclectic atmosphere. The aim is to bring this creativity to the forefront, providing a platform for both emerging and established artists to share their work with a broader audience. By highlighting the diverse artistic practices CREATE! fosters a sense of unity and cultural pride among residents and visitors alike.
The East Hastings area, in particular, has undergone significant transformation over the years. Once known for its challenges, the area has seen a resurgence of artistic and cultural activities, driven by the dedication of local artists and community members.
Now onto the festival deets:
Can’t-Miss Highlights!
Start your adventure with a morning coffee from a local café, then meander over to a brewery where artists are setting up their pop-up galleries. The energy is contagious as performers prepare for the evening’s shows. Dive into a workshop where you can try your hand at doodling, painting, or even ceramics. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the streets transformed into an open-air gallery by public art installations. As dusk falls, make your way to Strathcona Park. Here, you’ll be treated to live music, tantalizing bites from food trucks, and refreshing drinks at the beer garden.
Packed with activities and events that cater to a wide range of artistic interests. Here are some of the highlights you won’t want to miss:
Art Workshops : Hands-On Creativity
Dive into the Make New Friends: A Puppet-Building Workshop. Scheduled for July 24 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Off The Rail Brewing, and again on July 27 from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Strathcona Park, this workshop is a fantastic opportunity to construct your very own rod puppets from scratch using mostly reclaimed household materials. Led by the incredibly talented Liz Oakley, a multidisciplinary artist from New York City currently pursuing her master’s in interdisciplinary arts at SFU, this session encourages creativity and embraces weirdness. Your new puppet friends will have heads made out of newspaper and masking tape, faces applied with acrylic paint, and bodies made of fabric. It’s the perfect workshop for those who love getting a little quirky with their art!
Feel the rhythm and embrace the passion of dance in the Introduction to Flamenco Dance—All Abilities workshop. Happening on July 27 from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Strathcona Park, this dynamic session is led by Colombian-born, Vancouver-based flamenco artist Jhoely Triana. You’ll cover the basics of flamenco dance, including steps, upper body gestures, and rhythmic hand clapping. And yes, you’ll get to shout out some spirited “olé!” to your fellow dancers. It’s an interactive experience that’s sure to add a little spice to your festival day.
For those who love to doodle and create, the Doodles & Zine Making Workshop is a must-attend. Taking place on July 23 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Off The Rail Brewing, and again on July 27 from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Strathcona Park, this workshop is all about exploring different doodling techniques and creating your very own zine, ranging from eight to 16 pages. Led by Kaodraws (Angel), a Taiwanese-born, Vancouver-based multidisciplinary illustrator and designer, this session is suitable for all skill levels. You’ll leave with a unique piece of art that’s entirely your own.
Next, the BIPOC Expressive Art Workshop invites Black, Indigenous, and people of color to explore their identities and unique stories through painting, writing, music, and drama. Scheduled for July 27 from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM at Strathcona Park, this healing, empowering, and inclusive workshop is led by Adeline Poufong, a queer interdisciplinary artist of mixed-race heritage. No previous art experience is needed—just bring your creativity and an open heart.
Ever thought about making art out of invasive plants? The Bookmark Making with Invasive Plants workshop is a unique, eco-friendly experience. Taking place on July 26 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Strange Fellows Brewing, and again on July 27 from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Strathcona Park, eco-artist Joshua Ralph will guide you in turning regionally invasive plants into unique bookmarks using recycled paper. This hands-on workshop not only teaches papermaking techniques but also educates participants about the significance of local invasive plants like English ivy and red deadnettle.
Live Music Performances
One of the highlights of the festival is the big concert happening on Saturday, July 27th from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM in Strathcona Park. This outdoor extravaganza will feature an array of performances, public art projects, the Festival Art Shop, a beer garden, food trucks, and live music. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy some great tunes while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
“I love performing at community festivals like this one,” said Steve Kozak. “The energy from the crowd is always amazing, and it’s a great way to connect with fans and fellow musicians.”
In addition to these workshops, the festival features Live Music Performances from local artists in partnership with Light Organ Records & 604 Records. Performers like Steve Kozak, Christine Lee, Petunia and the Vipers, and Mia Kelly will keep the atmosphere lively at various venues, including The Heatley, Guilt & Co., The Flamingo Room, Firehall Arts Centre, and the Rickshaw Theatre.
“It’s exciting to be part of such a diverse lineup,” said Christine Lee. “I’m looking forward to sharing my music and discovering new artists.”
Whether you’re a fan of blues, folk, indie, or rock, there’s something for everyone. The live music performances are not just about listening to great music; they’re about creating memories and celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Vancouver’s Eastside.
So, grab your friends, bring a blanket, and get ready to enjoy some fantastic live music. The festival’s outdoor concerts and intimate indoor performances are sure to be a highlight of your festival experience.
Public Art Activities
Don’t miss out on this extravaganza, where you can participate in interactive art projects that bring the community together. The festival’s public art installations and community projects will turn the Eastside Arts District into an open-air gallery, encouraging everyone to engage with the art. Highlights include:
Going forward
In my exploration of Vancouver’s artistic landscape, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of these community-driven initiatives. The enchanting “Glowin’ Vancouver: A Magical Night at Mushroom Wonderland” transformed the night into a fairytale with its luminescent installations, while the heartfelt “Unearthed: Persian Artists’ Gathering” celebrated rich cultural memories and contemporary artistry. Events like these underscore the importance of artistic expression in bringing people together and creating a shared sense of identity.
One event you absolutely cannot miss is the
Art! Bike! Beer! Crawl Brewery Tour & Fundraiser!
Date: Saturday, July 27th, 2024, from 1-5pm
Start Time: starts at 1pm sharp and arrive no later than 12:30pm to check in.
Location: Check in at the festival entrance on Raymur Avenue.
held in person on Saturday, July 27th, 2024, as part of the festival, it takes art lovers on a cycling or walking tour of 3 breweries. This tour is an incredibly fun opportunity for attendees to enjoy the best the Eastside Arts District has to offer—art AND beer! The event wraps up at the festival, where participants will enjoy a final tasting from Strange Fellows Brewing, the Art Zone activities, and a chance to win amazing raffle prizes! A tasting flight or pint is included at all 4 stops.
This event supports the Eastside Arts Society’s programming and festivals, further deepening the public’s engagement and awareness of arts and culture in the Eastside.
So, grab your friends, mark those calendars, and get ready to embark on a week of artistic wonder and community spirit!
For more updates and to follow my adventures, connect with me on
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One response to “CREATE! Eastside Arts Festival: Unleashing Creativity in Vancouver’s Vibrant Arts District (ft. Angel Kao!)”
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