Introducing the Guild

The South Delta Artists Guild has been part of the Lower Mainland’s visual arts landscape for half a century. Incorporated in 1975 and operating out of Gallery 1710 in Tsawwassen, we exist to support visual artists through exhibition opportunities, educational programming, and a genuine sense of community. Our members span the region; from Tsawwassen and Ladner to Richmond, Burnaby, and Coquitlam; brought together by a shared passion for making and showing art. Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, printmaker, mixed-media artist, or textile artist, the Guild provides a space to grow your practice and connect with others who care about the arts. Discover more about who we are here.

Five Decades and Counting

The Guild has roots that go back to the mid-seventies, when a handful of local artists formalized a shared vision: create an organization that could support working visual artists year-round, provide a stage for their work, and foster creative connections across the community. That vision has held up remarkably well. Today we are one of the longest-running artist-led nonprofits in the region, with an active membership, a permanent home, and an unbroken record of putting on exhibitions year after year. Our building; the former Kiwanis Longhouse, built in 1973 with architectural references to Coast Salish Longhouses in tribute to the Tsawwassen First Nations; was renovated and rechristened Gallery 1710 after we partnered with the City of Delta in 1999.

Our Ethos

Respect as the starting point: Every artist who walks through our doors is met with genuine regard for their work, their perspective, and their creative journey; whatever stage they happen to be at.

Integrity in action: Our operations are driven by volunteers and guided by transparent decision-making. Members and the public can trust how we run things because we don’t hide how we run things.

Inclusivity as standard: Visual artists of every medium, every style, and every life path are welcome. There’s no in-crowd at the Guild; the door is genuinely open.

Growth as a shared goal: Through workshops, demos, exhibitions, and mentorship, we create the conditions for artists to keep developing. No one’s practice stands still here.

Perks of Guild Membership

• Exhibit Every Month: Members can place work in Gallery 1710’s rotating monthly shows; a mix of 2D and 3D pieces across painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, textiles, and more
• Show Beyond the Gallery: Through our Art in the Community program, member work appears at rotating off-site venues including Delta Hospital and Tsawwassen Library
• Life Drawing and Drop-In Access: Dedicated workshop space opens weekly for life drawing and casual drop-in sessions where members paint, sculpt, and share techniques
• Skill-Focused Workshops: Learn directly from accomplished artists in weekend or multi-day workshops covering watercolour, oils, sculpture, mixed media, and specialized techniques
• Artist Demos: Regular demonstrations from member and guest artists offer hands-on insight into how experienced practitioners approach their work
• Juried and Curated Shows: Special exhibitions throughout the year provide opportunities for recognition and encourage members to push their practice
• Mentorship and Connection: Informal mentorship and peer feedback are woven into how the Guild operates; you won’t find yourself creating in isolation
• Plein Air Outings: Regular outdoor painting sessions take members out into local landscapes to work from life

Open to Coquitlam Artists

Coquitlam has a thriving creative population across neighbourhoods like Westwood Plateau, Burke Mountain, Coquitlam Centre, Maillardville, and Austin Heights; artists at every stage of their journey looking for somewhere to exhibit, learn, and connect. While the drive to Tsawwassen is longer than a local option, Coquitlam-based artists who have made the trip find something here that doesn’t exist everywhere: a long-established nonprofit with a dedicated gallery, a full calendar of exhibitions, and a membership willing to invest in each other’s growth. Coquitlam art lovers are equally welcome to plan a visit to Gallery 1710 to see original work from across the region. See what’s currently showing here.

What to Expect at Gallery 1710

Gallery 1710 sits just off Highway 17A on 56th Street in Tsawwassen, five minutes from the BC Ferries terminal with free parking on-site. The space is bright, intimate, and comfortable; exactly the kind of gallery where visitors can spend an hour wandering without feeling rushed. Each monthly exhibition typically features up to 100 pieces from Guild members, spanning everything from abstract paintings to traditional landscapes, textile works to ceramics, mixed media to sculpture. Art cards, prints, and annual calendars are available as well. The gallery is free to enter and open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m., with extended hours during special events. Volunteer docents are always present to chat about the work or help with a purchase.

Thinking About Joining?

Coquitlam artists looking for a genuine arts community are welcome to join the Guild. Membership is built around participation; members take on docent shifts, join committees, and contribute to the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the Guild operating. That involvement is part of the value: it’s how members build friendships, learn the ropes of running exhibitions, and shape the direction of the organization. In exchange, members get exhibition access, educational opportunities, and belonging in an arts community that’s been thriving for fifty years. Learn more about membership and how to apply here.

Reach Us Here

Want to ask about membership, upcoming exhibitions, or planning a visit? Call us, stop in during open hours, or visit the site for more information.

Phone: (604) 943-3313

Gallery Address: 1710 56th Street, Tsawwassen, BC V4L 2B1

Gallery Hours: Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, 12 – 4 p.m.

Website: southdeltaartistsguild.com

Operating Since 1975 • Artist-Led Nonprofit • Home of Gallery 1710 • Welcoming Coquitlam Artists & Art Lovers