About

The Piccolo Gallery creates meaningful opportunities for everyday artists—emerging creators, students, low-income artists, and passionate hobbyists—to make and share new work. Through paid small-commissions, a virtual gallery, and our annual art auction, we help artists get seen, supported, and celebrated.

Our mission is simple: to make original art more accessible while ensuring artists are paid for their creativity.

Proceeds from our auction and application fees fund small-but-mighty commissions—reducing financial strain and helping artists create, earn, and share their work.

The art of small beginnings.

Why The Piccolo Gallery Exists

The Piccolo Gallery is created and run by Carla, a creative with roots in art, design, and business operations. Inspired by her Nonna, it's a tribute to a legacy of generosity and appreciation for the arts. *Piccolo* means “small” in Italian—our belief is that small commissions can lead to meaningful impact.

“I started The Piccolo Gallery because I know what it’s like to want to make art—but hesitate, thinking you shouldn’t be spending money to do it. I want to help create small opportunities for artists to get paid and share their work.

As a young artist, I was accepted into an emerging art show and was excited. But I had to frame all my pieces for the show. This was expensive and I only sold one piece to my Dad. (Thanks, Dad!)

I wasn’t chasing a career in art. I just wanted to share my work. But instead, I was left feeling like I spent money I shouldn't have".

That experience isn’t unique. Many everyday artists face financial barriers—whether it’s for supplies, framing, or simply the time to create. The Piccolo Gallery exists to ease those burdens through small-but-mighty commissions that help artists create, get paid, and share their work.

Art is essential for everyone. It brings us comfort, meaning, and connection—and artists deserve more chances to create and get paid.

Calls for Commissions

Broad-themed open calls—no invite needed. $10 to apply. Selected artists receive $500 to create new, original work.

Artists Get Paid & Showcased

Selected artists are paid and featured in our virtual gallery. Piccolo collects the work, making art more visible and accessible to all.

The Annual Auction

Each year, the collected works are auctioned to fund future commissions—connecting collectors with original art and supporting what’s next.

Who We Support

Everyday artists who permanently live in British Columbia (emerging or low-income artists, art students, & passionate hobbyists). Small paid commissions to create new art and ensure artists are paid for their work.

What We're Changing

Applications are quick and low-cost. Artists only create work if they are selected and paid. Applicants don't need to be pursuing a career in the arts; they just need a passion for art and the skills to create quality work.

Art is for All

We share artists’ stories and work all year to foster the creation and love of art. Our annual auction connects people with new art—while making sure artists are paid fairly. Proceeds support future Piccolo projects and more amazing art.