By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | May 13, 2025

At the heart of Abbotsford’s cultural scene lies a gem that blends visual arts, heritage, and education under one roof: The Reach Gallery Museum. Since opening its doors in 2008, The Reach has become a cornerstone for creative expression, historical preservation, and community engagement in the Fraser Valley.

More than just a gallery, The Reach offers a dynamic space where past and present meet—and where every visitor, from seasoned art lovers to curious newcomers, can find something to explore.

A Vision for Culture in the Valley

The Reach was established with a clear goal: to serve as a hub for artistic excellence and regional storytelling. It was created as part of a community vision to bring world-class exhibitions and heritage programming to Abbotsford—a city that’s rapidly growing, diverse, and rich in both cultural roots and creative energy.

The sleek, modern building sits proudly on Veterans Way, near the Civic Plaza and Abbotsford City Hall. Its architecture—open, airy, and full of light—reflects the values of transparency, accessibility, and inclusion that shape everything the museum does.

Contemporary Art That Challenges and Inspires

One of The Reach’s strongest attributes is its commitment to contemporary art. The gallery regularly features rotating exhibitions that showcase local, national, and international artists. From thought-provoking installations to multimedia storytelling, the work on display often explores themes that are relevant, urgent, and deeply human.

For many local artists, The Reach serves as a launching pad. Through programs like Emerge, a mentorship and exhibition initiative for emerging creatives aged 18 to 35, the museum fosters the next generation of Fraser Valley talent.

Honouring Abbotsford’s Heritage

While contemporary art takes center stage in the main gallery, The Reach also devotes space to the region’s history and heritage. Permanent and temporary exhibitions tell the stories of Abbotsford’s Indigenous communities, early settlers, agricultural roots, and evolving cultural landscape.

With a growing collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs, The Reach is building a meaningful archive that helps preserve Abbotsford’s diverse past for future generations.

Community-Centered Programming

True to its name, The Reach strives to reach people where they are. The museum offers a range of educational and outreach programs for all ages, including:

  • School tours and classroom resources
  • Artist talks and workshops
  • Family-friendly activities and cultural celebrations
  • Interactive exhibitions and hands-on learning stations

It’s a space where art and history come alive—not just to be observed, but to be experienced.

Admission and Accessibility

One of the most impressive aspects of The Reach is that admission is always free, thanks to the support of donors, sponsors, and community partners. This commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone, regardless of background or income, can enjoy and engage with culture in a meaningful way.

Why The Reach Matters

In a city as fast-growing and diverse as Abbotsford, cultural spaces like The Reach are more important than ever. They create common ground. They spark conversation. They connect the dots between who we were, who we are, and who we’re becoming.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time supporter, a stop at The Reach Gallery Museum offers more than just an afternoon of visual inspiration—it offers a deeper understanding of the community itself.

Visit The Reach

Location: 32388 Veterans Way, Abbotsford, BC V2T 0B3
Hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM; Saturday: 12 PM – 5 PM; Closed on Sundays and Mondays
Admission: By donation
Website: thereach.ca

Whether you're an art enthusiast, history buff, or a curious visitor, The Reach Gallery Museum offers a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate the past, present, and future of Abbotsford's cultural landscape.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance. With 19 years experience, she will well versed in the technical aspects of business coverages.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

TAGS:  #Jenny Holly Hansen The Reach Gallery Museum #Abbotsford is Awesome

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