Salon des Refusés
Welcome to the South Shore Gallery Salon des Refusés, a collection of pieces that were submitted to – but not selected by – the jurors of the Sooke Fine Arts Show (SFAS).
Salon des Whaaa?
This style of show has a long history, dating back to Paris, 1863. The premise is pretty simple: as the number of artworks submitted to a juried show like the SFAS is far higher than the number of pieces they are able to accept and display, many pieces - of amazing quality, skill and originality - are, for various reasons, not included in the show. With the approval and support of the SFAS, our Salon des Refusés provides an additional opportunity for some of these marvelous pieces to be displayed.
Is my artwork eligible?
Our show is designed to complement and run alongside the SFAS. We are accepting submissions from artists who applied to the 2026 SFAS but did not have their pieces accepted. Works must be consistent with the SFAS guidelines in terms of originality, quality, and creativity. Pieces that do not meet the SFAS guidelines will not be considered for the Salon. We are open to 2D and 3D submissions in all mediums, but as our gallery space is very limited, please be aware that size may be a consideration in our final selection.
Is the Sooke Fine Arts Show on board?
We have the full support of the SFAS! South Shore Gallery is an avid supporter of their show, and they in turn celebrate us and the Sooke art community.
What are your size limits?
The maximum finished size for 2D artworks is 36” x 48” (92cm x 122cm), including all matting and framing. The maximum finished size for 3D artworks is 84” (214cm) tall, with a base diameter of 24” (61cm).
Does my 2D artwork need to be framed?
We expect all Salon submissions to follow the same gallery standards as outlined by the SFAS. Canvases should be either framed, or neatly finished with painted edges. Framed and matted pieces should not have yellowed or otherwise aged or damaged mats.
One of my pieces was accepted to the SFAS. Can I submit another piece that was declined for the Salon?
You are welcome to submit any declined piece to the Salon, provided it was previously submitted to the 2026 SFAS. Please note, however, that preference may be given to artists who have not had any pieces accepted to the SFAS.
How do you decide which pieces to accept?
We have a limited space, and unfortunately not all submissions can be selected for show. Our jurors will work together to select pieces that demonstrate a range of mediums and concepts, while ensuring a cohesive exhibit. We acknowledge that it can be disheartening to not be accepted in a show. Please know that we deeply appreciate all of the submissions we receive. However, as in any juried show, there are many factors at play, and our final decisions do not suggest anything regarding the merits of a particular piece.
Who are this year's jurors?
The pieces for the 2026 show will be selected by three jurors:
Rebecca Hornsby began working at South Shore Gallery over 10 years ago, and took over as owner in 2019. With a background in fine picture framing, Rebecca enjoys interacting with and learning from artists and audiences alike, and loves connecting people with artwork that speaks to them. She is proud to carry Sooke's longest-running art gallery into its 32nd year and beyond.
Christa Brenan is a sculptor, painter, musician, and former executive director of the SFAS. A long-time show designer for the Vancouver Island Sculptors Guild, she uses her keen sense of perspective and colour to create South Shore Gallery's beautiful displays which highlight the incredible artwork our island has to offer.
2026 Guest Juror: John Grey-Noble graduated from the Alberta College of Art & Design, and worked for many years as an artist and educator in the Greater Vancouver graphic and printing industry, as well as sitting on the Board of the New Westminster Arts Council. His works have been exhibited in juried and solo shows across BC. His paintings examine the spaces between art and social commentary in an increasingly divided and digital world.
What are the fees? Is my artwork for sale?
There is no fee to apply to this year’s Salon. All artworks must be available for purchase, and we suggest you price your art as you would have for the SFAS. South Shore Gallery will retain a 40% commission on all art sales. Taxes will be applied at the time of sale. Any shipping costs will be paid by the purchaser, unless other agreements are made.
Why do you need my SFAS ID?
As our show is intended for pieces that did not make it into the SFAS, providing the ID number assigned during the SFAS submission process is a simple check to ensure your piece belongs in this particular show. We will not display this information, or use it for anything other than verification.
What happens if my piece is accepted?
All artists will be notified whether their submission(s) have been accepted on July 10th. Successful applicants will be sent a registration form to be completed and returned by July 21st. Artwork Drop-Off will take place at South Shore Gallery on July 19th, 20th, & 21st during regular gallery hours.
My piece was accepted, am I now a member of your gallery?
Artwork will be displayed in the gallery for the duration of the show. The associated contract does not imply any ongoing partnership with South Shore Gallery. Unsold pieces must be picked up by the specified date at the end of the show.
What are the Salon dates?
The Salon will run from July 25th to August 3rd. We invite you to attend our gala reception on July 26th from 3-6pm!