Artwork featuring a bridge over water, titled Nurture Future by artist Melanie Yugo.

Arts Ottawa supports and advocates for artists and the arts in Ottawa.

Through our focus on collaboration and partnership, we mobilize collective action in Ottawa’s arts community with an emphasis on inclusive and participatory decision-making.

Artwork: Melanie Yugo, Nurture Future

Photo: Curtis Perry

What’s Happening Now

Call to Videographers

Ottawa Nightlife Council

City Budget 2025

City of Ottawa Cultural Plan and Funding Framework Review

On Our Radar

A group of people chatting at an arts event.

A timeline of Merging Ottawa Arts Council & Arts Network Ottawa

2000

Initial merger discussions for Arts Ottawa East and Council for the Arts in Ottawa

2012

City of Ottawa
publishes Renewed
Action Plan

2019

Ottawa Cultural
Alliance's Cultural
Roadmap encourages sector collaboration

2020

COVID-19 Pandemic:
Increased collaboration between OAC and ANO

2021

Financial analysis conducted by Brynaert Brennan & Associates

2022

Phased engagement process with local consultants

May 2023

Develop community co-creation framework to pursue merger

October 2023

Announcement of
OAC and ANO Merger and Community Feedback Survey

December 2023

Community
Conversations

March 2024

Design thinking workshops held

June 2024

Workshop Organizational Model at Arts Leaders' Breakfast and present at AGMs

2025

New Arts Service Organization and organizational model implementation

Learn More

Core Leadership Circle

Mobilizes action, connects sectors, and guides collective vision

Learn More

Advisory Circle

Amplifies arts voices and connects communities to action

Take Action

Action Labs

Tackle urgent issues, driving sector-wide change

Become a Member

Membership

Obtain resources, connections, and support our advocacy efforts

Volunteer

Connect with local artists and give back to your community

Meet the Board

Governance

Board ensures accountability and aligns collective action with strategic goals

Donate Today

Support Arts Ottawa

Your contributions fuel the growth of our local arts sector

Become a Sponsor

Sponsorship

Sponsor the arts in our local community

Ways to Get Involved

Be part of shaping Ottawa’s arts community. Your involvement amplifies creativity, builds connections, and drives collective action. Together, we can create a thriving, inclusive cultural landscape.

Get Involved

Driving collective action to address the needs and priorities of Ottawa's arts sector.

A diverse audience applauding at an arts event.