Like the heart of the town's namesake, legendary shaman Tsa-meeun-is (who went on to become a dynamic chief despite a massive chest wound), the spirit of Chemainus continues to beat bravely. Threatened with extinction due to a decrease in industry, the citizens pumped life back into the streets by having several artists depict Chemainus' heritage on wall murals. The Chemainus Murals, numbering over 30, are considered Canada's largest outdoor art gallery, attracting over 300,000 people a year. The Chemainus Theatre also serves as a pulsing force with its cosmopolitan theatre performances that happen throughout the year. Centrally located between Victoria and Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, Chemainus has established itself as a world-class town, offering an abundance of restaurants and art gallery representing over 100 artisans. Crowds pulsate through many boutiques and antique shops on Main Street, while others enjoy Chemainus' southern seaside location for its year round outdoor activities, including golfing and beachcombing.