“A great gift” whispers the name Bau-Xi. That’s what it means in Chinese. A fitting name for this Vancouver landmark. The Bau-Xi Gallery isn’t just a gallery it’s a living testament to art. It’s a legacy.
Established in 1965 by Bau-Xi Huang this gallery opened its doors to showcase Canadian artists. It filled a crucial need on the West Coast. Back then Vancouver had only one contemporary art gallery. Bau-Xi became the second. And the oldest commercial gallery in Vancouver to this day.
Mr Huang a self-taught artist and immigrant from China had a vision. He wanted to give Canadian artists a platform. He worked tirelessly. He held shows every two weeks. Imagine the dedication. Hanging a new show every other Monday. Then the opening that same night.
The gallery moved a few times. It started at 555 Hamilton Street. Then to Gallery Row on Granville Street. Finally it settled into its current purpose-built home on Granville Street. A light-filled space perfectly suited for showcasing art.
Bau-Xi’s impact extends far beyond Vancouver. In 1976 it expanded to Toronto. This gave national exposure to its artists. Later it acquired the Foster/White Gallery in Seattle. It even opened Bau-Xi Photo. A dedicated space for photography in Toronto. That closed in 2023. But Bau-Xi’s legacy continues to grow.
In 2018 Bau-Xi acquired the Canada House Gallery in Banff National Park. This beautiful gallery showcases Canadian art in one of the world’s most stunning locations. Bau-Xi has been a member of the Art Dealers Association of Canada. It was a founding member of the South Granville Gallery Association too.
Bau-Xi Gallery isn’t just about business. It’s a family affair. Mr Huang’s children are involved in the gallery’s operations today. The gallery has fostered relationships between artists and clients. It has built a reputation for honesty and integrity. For nearly sixty years Bau-Xi has championed art. It’s a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate. It’s a great gift indeed a beacon of art in the heart of Vancouver.