The Sidney Fine Art Show and Sale is organized and managed entirely by Volunteers. People just like you! Every year we look forward to reconnecting with our wonderful volunteer team. For those of you who are joining us for the first time, welcome!
Why volunteer?
- It’s a ton of fun with a little bit of work added in.
- Meet other energetic, enthusiastic and interesting people.
- See how such a big show is put together, all with your help.
- Be a part of the biggest annual event in Sidney.
- You will make new friends, guaranteed!
2022 Schedule
Adjudication: September
Show Set Up: October
Show : October
For more information, see Guidelines for Volunteers, below.
Lots of Jobs
Our volunteers may choose what job suits them best. This is a well-oiled machine; jobs are clearly described, shifts are scheduled with confirmation emails. So you always know what you are doing and when you are needed.
If you have any questions or need assistance registering, contact volunteers@sfas.artsea.ca.
How it works
The Show isn’t a “show” until all the art comes in for the Jurors to see. That’s Adjudication. This runs for 4 days in early September. Over 1,000 pieces of art arrive on Day 1, Sunday, to be checked in, tagged, sorted and placed in Bodine Hall at the Mary Winspear Centre. On Day 2, Monday, each piece of art is displayed for the three Jurors who work independently. It’s a lot of lifting, holding, walking, sorting. You get the idea. But we feed you and let you have the occasional rest! Then all the art has to be picked up and taken away on Day 4.
Then it’s Show time and we do it all over again in mid-October. This time, only around 400 pieces of art come back – the ones chosen by the Jurors. Same process again – each piece is checked in, tagged and placed in Bodine Hall for the Show Designer’s team to set the final Show.
The Show is open to the public for 3 days over one weekend. Our intrepid Volunteers now work with our visitors and run the Show. When the Show closes on Sunday afternoon, all the art has to be removed. Purchasers and artists come back to pick up the artwork. And our volunteers make sure this all goes smoothly until every piece has left the building.
Guidelines for Volunteers
Your comfort
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Take regular breaks during your shift.
- Coffee, tea, water, snacks and sandwiches are provided.
- Leave valuables at home. There is no security for handbags.
- Coat racks are provided for outerwear.
Signing In for your Shift
- Sign in with the Shift Manager prior to starting your shift and get a name tag.
- Wear your Volunteer name tag.
- Check with Shift Manager if you are unsure of your duties. They are here to help and guide you.
Handling Art
- Handle all artwork with great care. These are the artists’ best pieces.
- White gloves are mandatory and are provided for those volunteers handling artwork.
- Do not puncture paper on paper-backed framed art when holding or hanging.
- Do not tip pastel paintings as particles may dislodge.
- Respect each artist. Do not make comments about any of the artwork.
- Treat any information learned from the Jurors as confidential. Do not share with anyone.
FAQs
Q. Do I need to know about art to volunteer?
No. All Volunteers are given guidance and instruction for each job.
Q. Do jobs require heavy lifting or extended periods of standing?
Some jobs do. Make sure you tell the Volunteer coordinators of any physical limitations you may have.
Q. Do I need to bring food with me?
Only if you wish to or have special dietary needs. Lunch, refreshments and coffee and tea are provided for all volunteers.
Q. How should I dress?
For Adjudication and Show set up, wear comfortable clothing and shoes. There can be a lot of standing and walking.
For Show days, we ask that Show Attendants and Opening Night Volunteers dress appropriately as they are our greeting our visitors.
Q. How much time is involved?
Shifts range from 3 – 5 hours during the 4 days of Adjudication in September and the 3 days of the Show in October. No preparation is required before your assigned shift.
Q. Can I request specific shifts?
Yes.
Q. Can I take a break during my shift?
Yes. Volunteers are encouraged to take a rest as the jobs can be stressful.
Q. Is there a secure place to leave my belongings?
No. Please do not bring valuables. A coat rack is provided.
