Amazing Chemainus – 40 of the Best Wall Murals

As part of our Canadian Rocky Tour with Collette Tours, we stopped in the little town of Chemainus, an hour’s drive from Victoria. I had never heard of it. Most people haven’t but it contains a delightful surprise. One that draws tourists by the droves.

Chemainus, BC

Chemainus is a small seaside community on the east coast of southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. It has a population of 3,035.

Founded as an unincorporated logging town in 1858, Chemainus is now famous for its 53 outdoor murals. Hence, this outdoor gallery has given birth to many businesses, including a theatre, antique dealers, and eateries. The murals helped rejuvenate the town after its large sawmill closed in the early 1980s. Consequently, a smaller, more efficient mill replaced it.

“The Little Town That Did”

Chemainus is known for its slogan “The Little Town That Did“. This was the brainchild of local businessman Karl Schutz. After the world’s largest sawmills closed in 1983, the mural project helped to stimulate the economy.

The Mural Capital of North America

These larger-than-life-size murals are everywhere including the local Subway restaurant. They include portraits of the men and women who settled and built Chemainus.

The Chemainus mural project is the world’s leading community-driven art tourism experiment. Spurred to save a community from certain economic collapse, the Chemainus mural project has delighted and inspired millions of visitors. As a result, it became the blueprint for community mural projects around the world.

This world-famous, self-guided outdoor art gallery features over 40 huge murals and 13 sculptures. These authentic works of art depict the history of Chemainus from the First Nations and early pioneers. The most recent murals showcase the works of Emily Carr, a celebrated Vancouver Island Artist.

Wall Murals

Mural painting is not a new concept. It goes back in history for centuries and is prevalent in countries around the world. Even in North America, the concept was not new. However, it was new as an economic development strategy. That us what makes this small town’s mural project unique.

The Story of Chemainus

British Columbia was in a recession in 1981 as revenues fell. This affected communities large and small. Subsequently, Chemainus represented the typical mill town whose very existence was a result of the mill itself.

Chemainus faced the real possibility of becoming the next ghost town due to the closure of the town’s major employer.  Because the town was off the main highway, it was even more vulnerable.

The BC government developed community initiative grants to aid towns in revitalization projects.  Mayor, Graham Bruce, was young, enthusiastic, and forward-thinking.  Subsequently, he presented the concept to the community and they oversaw what was to be the first community to complete a revitalization. Thus, Chemainus became a world-famous example of how even a small town can create substantial change for survival.

The Chemainus Murals have inspired communities throughout the world to explore their roots, beautify their towns, and instill pride.  Using the Chemainus model, some communities have used the mural concept to develop their revitalization for stronger economic development.

And Finally

If you like photography, you’ll love the murals of Chemainus!

Firstly, pick up an official Souvenir Mural Map from the Chemainus Visitor Centre and tour the murals. Secondly, follow the yellow footprints painted on the sidewalk or take a narrated tour in an old-fashioned, horse-drawn carriage.

Besides its murals, this city is world-famous for its sinking of a Boeing 737 for scuba divers. It is quaint and quiet with a culturally rich history. For example, there is live theatre and diverse dining options and recreational options. There is something for everyone!