The annual Vancouver Alternate Programs Art Show showcased student artwork from Vancouver Alternate Secondary Schools at the Roundhouse Community Centre from April 21–24, 2026. The exhibition featured a wide range of creative work, including 2D and 3D pieces, mixed media and live performances.

Upon entering the gallery, visitors were greeted by large colourful puzzle pieces titled All the Pieces Fall into Place: Connecting Us. Chloe from Heron’s Nest shared the inspiration behind the collaborative piece.

Art: All the pieces fall in place “Our amazing staff at Heron’s Nest—Adrian, Tracy, and Nitu—decided that we should do puzzle pieces. They thought it would be fun, and then we got to choose whatever we wanted to put on them. Instinctively, all the students chose to put our babies on them.”

On the opposite side of the gallery, anime fan art by Erica, a student in the Spectrum Program, captured attention. Erica spoke about what motivates her artistic practice.

“I love anime and I love gaming, and they’ve genuinely been some of the driving forces behind my wanting to get better at art,” she said.

An hour into the event, students gathered in an intimate performance space to watch the much‑anticipated live performances. Each year’s show is different, featuring everything from dance and music to improv.

This year’s performances included a seasoned band from the Spectrum Program, performing their final VSB show together. The group played their original song, “Lifeline,” driven by powerful electric guitar melodies. The five members began playing together at the Sarah McLachlan School of Music. With two band members already graduated, this year is Jhonny’s last year at Spectrum.

“I’m going to go to college for music. Maybe teach music. I want to keep doing music and being with these guys for as long as I can,” he shared when asked about his future plans and hopes.

 Annual VASS art festivalAs many students prepare to graduate, the art show also makes space for a new wave of artists to emerge. Jackie, the event’s MC, encouraged students to get involved.

“We need more of you to join. If you feel inspired—look, this can be you!”

Richard Edge, district vice‑Principal of VASS, expressed his appreciation to everyone who made the event possible.

“This event represents the collective effort of students, educators, support staff, families and community partners who lead deeply through the power of creative expression. What you witness is not only what students have created; it's who they are becoming and the future they're already shaping.”