The Community Arts Council of Vancouver has just announced that it will present the sixth annual Vancouver Outsider Arts Festival, October 14 to 16 at the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre.

This year’s programming at Canada's first and only outsider art festival features more than 60 artists from across Metro Vancouver, representing visual artists, performers, art groups, and emerging bands.

“Outsider art shakes up what we think and know about art, challenging traditional notions about who and what counts in the art world,” says CACV executive director Kristin Cheung in a news release. “These artists have various levels of training and come from diverse cultural backgrounds, bringing with them a variety of life experiences.

"Their art often addresses difficult social and political issues head on," adds Cheung. "There is an amazing richness in the work that will leave viewers with a greater sense of community and a deeper understanding of those around them.”

Participating performing artists include Angelic Goldsky, Aridonis, Beautiful Losers, Future Star, Heathen, Jason Qiu, Laura Fukumoto, Matthew Presidente, Tamami Maitland Trio, Taz Solace, The Troupe de Poetry, and Vancouver Cantonese Opera.

Participating visual artists include Amy J. Dyck, Ankha Sita Qualia, Anoop Dhaliwal, Aryana Neff, Barb Bell, Bay Ribeiro, Blip Photography, Brandy Mars Designs, Charlie Sandeman, Cole Schmidt, Dano Guay, Fateh Creations, Georgia Youngs, Girish Chandok, Glenn Hesse, Hoda Mir, Jacqueline Primeau, John Clinock, Tuyết Ánh Judith Nguyễn, Karen C, Karen Vanon, Katalina Guerrero, Linda Haftner, Margaux Wosk (Retrophiliac), Maureen West, Melanie Stuparyk, MigyB, Mishel Arrieta, myclaraoceans, Nané Jordan, Norman Brule, Norman Watson, Omega Al, Penny N. Lim, Pili, Sam Lynn Gallant, Shamsah Mohamed, Stevie Broome, Taylor Neal, Tianna Hall, Totter, Val Fishman, Varro Arts, and Wendy Stewart.

To learn about all of the artists taking part in the Vancouver Outsider Arts Festival visit the website here.