Photo via @vandusengarden / Instagram
VanDusen Botanical Garden is not just for nature lovers, but also for those who want to feel inspired in their everyday lives. This September, Artists for Conservation (AFC) is bringing a multi-day, nature-themed arts and culture exhibition to the iconic garden setting, which features live music, films, and art demonstrations.
Founded in 1997, AFC is the world’s leading artist group supporting the environment, and comprises hundreds of the most gifted nature artists from across the globe. To be exact, the non-profit is made up of 500 artists from over 30 different countries.
Their mission is simple: support wildlife and habitat conservation around the world, and promote environmental education through art, celebrating the beauty of nature.
The main art exhibit will feature an international collection of original paintings and sculptures, which you can peruse in the halls of VanDusen. As in previous years, all artwork displayed is for sale, with 40% of the proceeds supporting conservation and environmental education programs worldwide.
“Every fall since 2011, AFC has hosted its flagship event, the Artists for Conservation Festival, in Vancouver,” say organizers. “It’s a one-of-a-kind, international cultural event supporting and celebrating nature at one of the most spectacular venues on the planet.”
You can also catch a couple of short film screenings, wildlife art demos, and live music ranging from acoustic guitar to Japanese Shakuhachi flute.
In addition to its signature festival, AFC events and exhibits regularly tour internationally through North America and Asia.
GA tickets are available online for $15.05 per person, as well as at the VanDusen Visitor Centre upon arrival. Note that all garden admission tickets include access to the Artists for Conservation Festival. So, no additional ticket purchase is necessary!
The festival takes place from Thursday, Sept. 25 to Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The gallery will be open for viewing until 5 p.m. on Sept. 26 and 27.
There will be a meet-the-artists reception to kick off the exhibition on Sept. 25 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
So there you have it. Stay tuned for more details as they become available, including additional information on 2025 programming.
When: Thursday, Sept. 25 to Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 5251 Oak St.
Cost: $15.05 per adult for garden admission
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