SUBMITTED BY SALT SPRING ARTS
As Salt Spring Arts (SSA) bids farewell to its executive director Yael Wand in 2025, her profound contributions to the organization and local arts community are celebrated.
In 2014, Wand joined the team with two decades of experience working as an artist and cultural coordinator, accepting the position as SSA’s first executive director (ED) in 2019. Her passion and dedication have left an indelible mark, building on the organization’s extensive history fostering creativity and supporting artists on Salt Spring Island. SSA flourished under Wand’s leadership, sustaining and creating accessible arts programs – many of which are free to the public – that continue to enrich the cultural fabric of our island.
“Yael came through the doors of Mahon Hall with incredible determination and has kept up that pace for 10 years,” said former Artcraft manager Richard Steel. “Her energy and expertise has seen Salt Spring Arts expand its programs, stature and professionalism in difficult circumstances and with limited budget and staffing. She has done great things for the arts council, and for Salt Spring.”
Wand’s tenure saw the launch of new initiatives such as the Summer Outdoor Concert Series, which has since grown into a beloved tradition for many, bringing community members and visitors together in a weekly celebration of live music. She also spearheaded the annual BC Family Day event, a free celebration for kids, families and caregivers to enjoy an afternoon of art-making, face painting and a dynamic performance.
“As our first ever ED, Yael has virtually invented her job as she went along,” said SSA board chair Julie Kemble. “Her numerous contributions to the growth and development of Salt Spring Arts can be seen everywhere. Her considerable skills extend far beyond her talent as an accomplished musician. In my role as board chair it’s been a delight to work with, and learn from her.”
Wand’s leadership has extended far beyond thoughtful programming, to developing and fostering meaningful partnerships in the community with local artists, professionals and businesses.
“It has been a distinct pleasure working with Yael for the last three years,” said Robert Steinbach, community relations manager at Country Grocer. “Her sense of purpose has always been palpable and her clarity of communication exemplary. We have explored so many options and consequently forged a strong and joyful working relationship which has been very rewarding for us over an extended period of time. We will miss her smile, humour and her dedication to the arts!”
Wand’s vision and commitment were also instrumental in shaping Salt Spring Arts’ first strategic plan, announced in 2023, which will continue to guide the organization for years to come.
As Wand embarks on her next chapter, her legacy of fostering artistic excellence and community engagement will continue to inspire Salt Spring Arts.
“Yael leaves big shoes to fill and she will be dearly missed,” said Julie Kemble. “However, we are happy to welcome our new ED, Jennifer Van de Pol, to the Salt Spring Arts team. Jennifer — an artist herself — brings excellent knowledge of the provincial arts scene. She also brings leadership and arts education experience from her time spent at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and the Nanaimo Art Gallery. Salt Spring Arts looks forward to introducing her to our community.”