Paul Quarrington was a musician, acclaimed non-fiction writer and novelist, an award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker, and an educator extraordinaire. 

He was lead singer and guitarist for the Cordova Bay band Porkbelly Futures. His novel The Ravine (2008) was long-listed for the Scotiabank Giller Prize; his previous novel Galveston (2004) was short-listed for the Giller. Paul won the Stephen Leacock Award for King Leary, a title that also won the 2008 Canada Reads competition. His musically themed novel, Whale Music won the Governor General’s Award for Fiction and was one of several of his novels already adapted or currently being adapted as feature films. The latter was a fine example of the way his favourite pastimes of fishing, hockey and music all had a wonderful impact on his creative accomplishments.

In May 2009, Paul was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer.  From May 2009 to January 2010 he channeled his creative energy into the completion of many artistic endeavours, including his first solo CD release, the third Porkbelly Futures CD release, his memoir “Cigar Box Banjo” for Greystone Books, the documentary film inspired by the book, “Paul Quarrington: Life in Music” (BookShorts / CTV Bravo) and so much more.

Paul's only solo album, The Songs is now available. This is a beautiful collection of musical tales and Paul's final recording .  

The Quarrington Arts Society has been established in honour of the inspiration Paul’s life and work continues to provide for artists who seek expression in many disciplines - for information about the organization and its mandate, please visit: www.quarringtonartsociety.ca