Location
The Island School of Building Arts is located on Gabriola Island, just a short ferry ride or floatplane flight from Vancouver. Known as the Isle of the Arts, Gabriola is home to a talented and eclectic array of artists, actors, studios and, of course, ISBA. From timber building to boat building and pottery to theatre, the main element that binds this community of teachers, artisans, authors and musicians is the appreciation of the environment an a yearning for personal independence. Like nature and life, we are all an evolving work in progress. Students will be able to check out art markets, open studios, organic farmstands and a number of Gabriola Arts Council festivals.
Amidst this rural environment there are still the amenities to cater to the student... The local Timber Frame shopping center, a grocery store, pharmacy, cafes etc. There is also a medical clinic, golf course, gas station, taxi service, and several restaurants and pubs to choose from.
Gabriola Island is about 14 km long and 4.2 km wide, with an estimated population of 5000 permanent residents. It is located in the middle of the Gulf Islands off the coast of Nanaimo. The parks and trails can fill days with adventure and exploration. Ocean adventures are plentiful here with kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, boating and fishing dominating the recreation and leisure landscape.Many of the beaches are covered in seashells, driftwood and fine sand.The magic of nature always working with surprising results likeits exhibits on Gabriola Island of over fifty Petroglyphs.Years of wind and waves have carved out many shorelines of Gabriola leaving an artistic impression in the landscape... Here, where wildlife abounds and the 'after school' recreation and relaxation opportunities are plentiful...
