About Us

Island Arts Magazine began its journey in March 2008 as a quarterly, full-colour, high-gloss printed publication. Produced by Young at Art Studios, owned and operated by Canadian Fine Artist Susan Schaefer, the magazine quickly became a trusted source for celebrating the arts.

Today, Island Arts Magazine has evolved into a dynamic, interactive digital publication, expanding its reach and accessibility. Published five times a year, we continue to honour our roots while embracing new opportunities to connect artists, patrons, and the community in the digital era.

For more information on Susan Schaefer, the artist, please visit her website at Susan-Schaefer-Fine-Art.ca.

History

After relocating to Vancouver Island, BC, in 2007, Susan Schaefer was captivated by West Coast artists' immense talent and creativity. She quickly recognized the need for a high-quality arts magazine to showcase their work and connect them with art patrons. With over 20 years of experience in graphic design and publishing, Susan was confident she could create a publication that would serve the arts community with distinction. From this vision, Island Arts Magazine was born.

Operating out of her home office, Susan travelled up and down the island, interviewing artists, attending art openings, and immersing herself in the vibrant arts scene. Her dedication made her dream of producing a top-notch arts magazine a reality.

In 2020, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Island Arts Magazine embraced the virtual world. It transitioned to an interactive digital format, reaching a wider audience while continuing to celebrate the rich artistic landscape of Vancouver Island and beyond.