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Chemainus British Columbia

City of Outdoor Murals

Chemainus Chemainus, British Columbia (Cities) image

Chemainus, population 4,500, is named for Tsa-meeun-is (Broken Chest), a legendary shaman and prophet who survived a massive wound in his chest and became a powerful chief. His people proudly took his name to identify their own tribal group.

Located on the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, this former sawmill town's most famous attractions are more than 35 huge murals painted on the walls of its downtown buildings (as seen in the photo above). These colorful works of art depict the area's history. Painted on the sidewalks are large yellow footprints that provide a walking tour of the exhibits.

Located on Highway 18, this artists' community boasts art galleries, craft antique mall, boutiques, specialty shops, restaurants, a large community theater, and other tourist facilities.

Visit one of the town's festivals or take one of the car ferries from Chemainus to a native Indian reservation, Kuyper, or to tiny Thetis Island.

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Location	9758 Chemainus Road Chemainus British Columbia V0R 1K0
Phone	250-246-3944
Fax	250-246-3251
Website	http://www.chemainus.bc.ca Chemainus brims with artistic spirit. It started in 1982, when the people of Chemainus invited internationally known artists to use the town as a canvas. Today, more than 35 murals and 13 sculptures depict the town's history, people and future. It's the world's largest outdoor gallery, and each year new artworks are added. Follow the footprints ...