The Island of Creative Expression
With one of the highest number of artists per capita in Canada and many art-centred events, Gabriola has earned its moniker, ‘Isle of the Arts’.
Whether you’re the creator, admirer, or participant, enjoy the island’s rich cultural landscape year-round.
Art, Music & Theatre Festivals
For more events and to see what’s happening while you’re here, check out our Gabriola Events website.
Gabriola Museum
The Gabriola Museum is run by the Gabriola Historical Society and is the place to discover island stories.
The Museum is located on South Road, a comfortable (1.2 km) walk or a short drive up the hill from the ferry dock at Descanso Bay. It is open from May to December.
Visit their website for hours, events and exhibits.
Yellow Flag Art Studios
If the yellow roadside flag is flying, the artist’s studio is open!
The yellow flag program is a Gabriola Island Chamber of Commerce initiative. See where inspiration and creativity come alive in makers’ spaces.
Arts & Culture
The island fosters creativity for all, making it an essential part of life on Gabriola!
Our artists, creators, makers and cultural centres are busy year round and would love to share their passion with you.
Barrow Downs Excavation
Categories
Contractor Landscape Services
About
Founded in 2019, Barrow Downs Excavation blends practical excavation with creative land shaping—serving both residential and community-based projects across BC. From early residential work to managing full-site builds for Indigenous communities, including greenhouses, playgrounds, and heritage structures, we specialize in thoughtful, collaborative construction in remote and rural settings. Now based on Gabriola Island, we’re expanding into local creative space development while continuing to support remote community infrastructure.
WHY CHOOSE BARROW DOWNS?
We are committed to quality, communication and our customers. We understand that your project is important to you, and it’s our goal to ensure you have the best possible experience.
Whether building a home, redoing your driveway, or planning extensive landscaping work, our promise to you is high quality excavation and a team you will want to work with again and again.