Digital Creation Hub
Supporting artists to amplify their stories.
Are you an artist who needs help with your digital presence or technology to help with your latest art project?
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Located at The Old School House Arts Centre in Qualicum Beach, the Digital Creation Hub provides low-cost access to digital software and is staffed with our digital presence expert and Tech Coach.
Whether you want to photograph your artwork, create video content, learn more about social media, or get started with digital art, the Hub helps you access the tools and knowledge you need to get one step closer to your goals.
"Thank you sooooo much. I feel like I can move forward. I was really stuck. But now I can move forward. I feel happy and relieved!"
- Monica
"All information provided and steps suggested to me were right on for problems I was having and where my knowledge was lacking. Very impressed with the knowledge and help I was given."
- Patricia
Lys was great! I appreciated and thankful for their sharing, listening and enthusiasm!! I left feeling inspired and welcomed! Thank you Lys!
- Kellie
About
Artists are storytellers, sharing perspectives and ideas through their creations. Digital tools are vital in getting these stories out into the world. But not everyone’s stories are being heard because many creative people on Vancouver Island have limited access to technology.
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One solution is to build little tech hubs throughout the region, especially in rural and remote areas. The Central Island Digital Creation Hub is a pilot project to test this concept. During our funding period of October 2022 - May 2023, the Central Island Digital Creation Hub was a hit and was fully booked for our grant period.
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As our funding has not yet been renewed, we have pivoted to providing services at a low cost. We continuously seek sponsors and other funding opportunities to continue providing these services. If you are able to pay it forward for another artist, consider paying for your spot and another. We will use these as sponsored hours for those who can’t afford it to be able to access the hub.
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The hub offers one-to-one and small-group sessions for creatives who want to learn or grow their tech skills. With the support of a digital coach, you can use the equipment to create all sorts of content, including podcasts, videos, blogs, and books, as well as take photographs of your artwork.
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The Central Island Digital Creation Hub is located on unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples and the Qualicum First Nations, in Qualicum Beach, at The Old School House Arts Centre. The BC Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts provided our first round of funding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment will I have access to?
The Digital Creation Hub currently offers a variety of equipment to create content and digital art. You can take photos of your artwork (cameras, lighting, photography backdrop). There is also a digital scanner for small-scale artwork. Sound equipment, including podcasting equipment (soundboards and mics), are available to use. We have a range of computer equipment, including an iMac and iPad with the Adobe Suite installed (Photoshop, Lightroom, Illustrator, Premiere Rush, and Fresco), and we also have a PC with Windows 11 for running podcasting equipment or other digital programs.
I have no technical knowledge, can I still use this space?
Yes, you can schedule as many meetings as you need with our digital coach.
I have technical knowledge, do I really need to meet with the coach?
You will need to complete a short orientation before using the space on your own.
If the staffed hours do not work with your schedule, please email info@theoldschoolhouse.org to chat with us directly.
Is there anything I should bring?
Please bring a USB to save and transport your digital work.
Where is the hub located?
The hub is located on the ground level of TOSH Arts Centre in Qualicum Beach, BC.
How much does it cost?
Each 1-hour appointment is $45. Payment must be provided before your appointment.
If you cannot pay online, please email info@theoldschoolhouseartscentre.org for alternative options. We would love to foster a community that lifts others up; if you are able to pay it forward, please consider paying an hour for another creative to also have access.
What are the hours of operation?
As we shift our services, the Hub will be open once a month throughout June and July from 10 am - 4 pm.
My appointment was cancelled?
During our transition period, the Hub will need a minimum of 2 appointments per day to be operational. If we cannot meet this minimum, we will offer to reschedule your appointment or provide a full refund.
How do I reschedule/cancel my appointment?
Appointments must be rescheduled or cancelled 24 hours in advance. Creatives who do not cancel or reschedule within our 24-hour minimum will not be eligible for a refund or rescheduled appointment.
How can I sponsor this program?
This program is administered by The Old School House Art Centre in Qualicum Beach, BC. The Old School House Art Centre is a registered charity and can provide tax receipts for any parties wishing to provide sponsorship. You can also pay it forward, giving another artist a chance to work with our DCH.
For more information on how to get involved, please email info@theoldschoolhouseartcentre.org
Digital Creation Hub- Central Island's first round of funding was from the BC Arts Council and the Canada Council for the Arts.
