The DeCosmos Fine Arts Society is based on friendship, fellowship and the encouragement of artistic growth for all members.
The DeCosmos Fine Arts Society began in 1966 when a small group of artists decided to get together to share ideas and inspiration. The group was instrumental in the establishment of the Parksville and District Arts Council and continues to be a vibrant part of the arts community in the Oceanside area.
Everyone is welcome; practicing artist or art lover. It is not necessary to have work juried to become a member. Members come from all over the mid island area. DeCosmos now has over 180 members including artists of all levels, from beginners to professionals, as well as those simply interested in the appreciation of art.
DeCosmos Mission Statement
To provide a venue for artists to meet, socialize and show their work;
To provide monthly demonstrations of various techniques by accredited artists;
To help artists develop skills and acquire or show their knowledge;
To organize art exhibitions of hand-made, original visual art so that society members have an opportunity to show their art to the public.
2026-27 DeCosmos Board
DIRECTORS
- President – Joanne Nemeth
- Vice President – Sylvie Peltier
- Secretary – **OPEN**
- Treasurer – Cathy Dennis
- Membership Officer – Janice Wallman
- Advertising/Communications Officer – Karen Morrison
- Show Convenor – Val Wheater
- Director at Large – Joanne Ayley
- Director at Large – Rosemary Parks
- Director at Large – Nancy Slavin
COMMITTEES & CHAIRS
- Demonstration Committee: Rosemary Park (CH) Alex Carr, Paulette Crampton, Ros Scott, Bev Simpson, C.J. Poznansky, Jen Curtis.
- Show Committee: Val Wheater (CH), Karena Albert – Show Chair Pacific Brant Show 2027
- Refreshments Committee: Gillian Walker (CH), Lynn Orriss, Deanna Didier, Linda Strand, Jeanette Hawkes, Mary-Ann Quist
- Beach Club Exhibition Committee: Karen Morrison, Sylvie Peltier
- Historian: Nancy Slavin (CH)
- Webmaster: Joanne Nemeth (CH)