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Support your local arts community today. Support Arts Ottawa Discover the many ways you can contribute to Arts Ottawa below. Help sustain our operations, fuel vibrant programming, or play an active role in shaping how your support makes an impact. Photo: Jamaal Khaleefa Join the Giving Circle Join a community-driven effort to support the arts in Ottawa. The Arts Ottawa Giving Circle empowers donors not only to give, but to actively help decide how funds are allocated to vital arts programs. Learn More and Sign Up ARTicipate Endowment Fund Text ARTS to 20222 to give $10 to the ARTicipate Endowment Fund today! Donate to our ARTicipate Endowment Fund to support artistic activity in the professional spaces of the Shenkman Arts Centre. Whether it is a stage performance, an art exhibition in one of the Centre’s galleries or the creation of new work, your donation to the Fund will enable local artists to share their work at the Shenkman Arts Centre. Donate to the ARTicipate Endowment Fund Donate to Arts Ottawa Arts Ottawa seeks to nurture the arts, to let them bloom and spread their roots deep into the cityscape. In so doing, we endeavour to build a city that hums with life, where equity and diversity are not just present, but celebrated. Together we can deliver on our mission to drive collective action in responding to community needs and priorities, fostering a thriving arts sector. Donate to Arts Ottawa Today Arts Ottawa Fund The Arts Ottawa Fund, established through the Ottawa Community Foundation, offers a transformative opportunity for donors to make a lasting impact on our city's vibrant arts community. Your contributions to this fund will ensure sustainable growth and innovation in the arts, as annual dividends are directed towards initiatives that unite and elevate the sector as a collective. By giving today, you are not only supporting artists, creators, and cultural organizations, but also strengthening the very fabric of Ottawa's identity as a city rich in creativity and cultural expression. This is a unique chance to be part of something bigger. Join us in driving the arts forward, ensuring that they continue to thrive for generations to come. Donate to the Arts Ottawa Fund Other ways to donate to Arts Ottawa Tangible personal property Donation Matching Legacy Giving Leave a donation in your will Life insurance Property RRSPs and RRIFs Securities Contact Us Explore the new Artist Talk! Our new community hub brings together events, resources, and discussions — all in one place. Stay connected, informed, and inspired. Visit Artist Talk Subscribe to the Arts Ottawa Report! Arts Ottawa offers a bi-weekly report that will keep you up to date on all of the programs and services Arts Ottawa has to offer the Ottawa community. Learn about our newsletters here. Email* Yes, subscribe me to Arts Ottawa Report. * Submit

Meet the Arts Ottawa team Meet the Arts Ottawa Team Alex Maltby Programming & Partnerships Brooklyn Marok Digital Engagement & Design Cassandra Olsthoorn Co-Leadership, Strategy & Community Mobilization Joni Hamlin Programming and Operations Nicole Milne Co-Leadership, Operations & Revenue Generation Noel Szabados Content & Impact Documentation Coordinator Advisors Leah Cogan Community Wealth Building Learning Labs Kwende Kefentse Shared Ground Initiative Board of Directors Chirag Gehani Financial Steward Emily Ramsay Chairing Member Hanna Nizman Knowledge Steward Jeff Richstone Board Member Justine Stewart Support Chair Patrick Blackman Board Member

Tackle urgent issues, driving sector-wide change Action Labs and the Core Leadership Circle Tackle urgent issues, driving sector-wide change Photo: Jamaal Khaleefa ACTION LABS IN PROGRESS:→ Shared Ground Initiative (click to learn more) → Social Impact Evaluation in the Arts (click to learn more) Arts Ottawa is listening closely to the local arts community. We are working to understand how we can collectively address the opportunities, challenges and priorities the sector is facing, that shape the sector’s role in city building. Arts Ottawa held three Collaborative Strategy Sessions to pilot a Core Leadership Circle (CLC) in late fall 2025. Community advisory members, partners, and sector leaders—those actively engaged in addressing challenges around spaces, local economic development, and impact measurement—shared experiences, tested ideas, and explored ways to coordinate collective action. By convening this CLC, we began building stronger connections across the sector to ensure Arts Ottawa’s work is informed by and reflects the realities of , Ottawa’s arts community. During our Collaborative Strategy Session on November 27, 2025, Ava Marguerite, one of our CAMs, joined to observe the session and share their experience and key takeaways as an Arts Correspondent. You can read the full article here. From these conversations, we and the CLC identified three Strategic Priority Pillars. Arts Ottawa is reframing these as interconnected components of Ottawa’s civic infrastructure. Physical Infrastructure: Artists need clearer pathways to engage with physical spaces, along with practical guidance on civic systems (planning development, zoning), and capital projects. Knowledge Infrastructure: Capturing and communicating sector impact is critical. Currently, data and storytelling are fragmented, and participants emphasized the need for simple, shared tools to make this work more effective. Economic Infrastructure: The sector is exploring ways to strengthen local economic development by supporting fair work, local ownership, equity, and long-term sustainability. Effective coordination and shared messaging are key to making this possible. Together, these layers create the infrastructure of cultural life — physical, economic, and social systems that sustain creativity and civic connection. Through this work, Arts Ottawa’s role in the sector has become clear: we serve as a backbone, convener, knowledge hub, and capacity builder, centering equity and representation. Looking ahead to 2026–2027, we will focus strategically on these core roles, engaging in project leadership selectively to maximize collective impact, support sustainable and coordinate sector growth. More about the Core Leadership Circle The Core Leadership Circle acts as a catalyst for activation, formed around each of our Action Labs. These purpose-driven groups bring together individuals, organizations, and advisors from both within and beyond the arts to support, shape, and champion the work being done. Each CLC is dedicated to exploring a key issue in the arts, offering insight, strategy, and connections, and is dissolved once that phase of the work evolves. Through its leadership, the CLC will help guide outcomes from Action Labs such as Shared Ground (which explores the potential of underused spaces as cultural hubs) and the Arts Ottawa Awards ( which celebrate and elevate the contributions of local artists and cultural leaders). More about Action Labs Action Labs are central to how we address key issues in the arts community. Each Lab focuses on a specific topic identified as important to artists and the community by our CAM. They may take the form of research groups, planning teams, advocacy hubs, or spaces for idea-sharing and collaboration. Each Lab is supported by a Core Leadership Circle, a group that helps guide the work and ensure its impact is shared with those who can drive broader change. Labs are formed in response to clear needs and conclude once their objectives are achieved, such as completing a project or sharing insights with the community. A Dual Approach to Change Project-Based Labs: These labs are designed to achieve specific goals, such as organizing a campaign or launching a new initiative. They have defined timelines and objectives and disband once the project is completed, or the goals are successfully met. Issue-Based Labs: These labs focus on ongoing challenges or policy-related issues. While they often operate on longer timelines, their purpose and impact are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain relevant and effective.

Joni Hamlin Programming and Operations joni@artsottawa.ca With over 30 years of experience in event management, volunteer coordination, and office administration, Joni Hamlin is dedicated to fostering a thriving and inclusive arts community in Ottawa. As the Programming and Operations Manager at Arts Ottawa, she oversees a diverse portfolio of initiatives, including donation campaigns, membership engagement, program development, and both small and large-scale event management. Her expertise lies in bringing people together—artists, donors, community leaders, and arts supporters—to create meaningful experiences that celebrate and sustain the arts. Whether managing logistics for major events like the Arts Ottawa Awards, coordinating co-creation programs, or building relationships with equity-deserving communities, she is committed to ensuring every initiative runs smoothly and makes a lasting impact.

Ways you can get involved with the Ottawa arts community. 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. Explore ways you can get involved below. Photo: Shannon Hawn Membership Connecting communities to action and amplifying arts voices. Become a Member Community Forums Come together to shape shared priorities for Ottawa's arts sector Join us Arts Ottawa Governance Model We’ve reimagined governance at Arts Ottawa, centering collaboration, transparency, and community input in everything we do.  Learn More Learning and Co-Creation Labs Exploring governance, advocacy, and artist-led collaboration to design a Shared Leadership Model. Learn More Action Labs and the Core Leadership Circle Tackle urgent issues, driving sector-wide change Take Action Volunteer Connect with local artists and give back to your community Volunteer Sponsorship Sponsor the arts in our local community Become a Sponsor Support Arts Ottawa Your contributions fuel the growth of our local arts sector Donate Today

Brooklyn Marok Digital Engagement & Design brooklyn@artsottawa.ca As the Digital Engagement & Design Coordinator for Arts Ottawa, Brooklyn plays a key role in connecting the local arts community. She is the primary point of contact for sharing exciting events and opportunities, helping to amplify these initiatives through our social media, website, and newsletters. Her goal is to strengthen and foster a more inclusive, connected arts ecosystem in Ottawa. Brooklyn manages the organization’s social media, so if you message us, you’re likely chatting with her! Additionally, she handles the creation of graphics, ensuring our visual identity reflects the vibrancy of our community. Brooklyn supports all communications efforts to maintain clear, engaging messaging that keeps the arts community informed, involved, and excited about what's happening in Ottawa.

Nicole Milne Co-Leadership, Operations & Revenue Generation nicole@artsottawa.ca Nicole’s leadership of the Ottawa Arts Council for the past five years was rooted in positioning the organization as a passionate and influential voice; as a champion for an engaged, thriving and connected arts community; as a facilitator in creating a healthier, more sustainable arts sector; and as an effective collaborator in building diversity and inclusion in the arts. A dedicated advocate for Ottawa’s vibrant arts community, Nicole brings 30 years of experience in arts administration, fundraising, marketing, communications, strategic planning, and community engagement. Her work with the Ottawa Arts Council, Great Canadian Theatre Company, Canada’s National Arts Centre, and the Canada Council for the Arts have offered her unique opportunities to shape and support the city’s dynamic cultural landscape. Nicole is committed to advancing the arts through innovative approaches, fostering collaboration, and building meaningful connections within the community.

Noel Szabados Content & Impact Documentation Coordinator noel@artsottawa.ca Noel (she/her) is based in Ottawa, Ontario, on the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation. As the Content & Impact Documentation Coordinator at Arts Ottawa, she supports programming through documentation, communications, and administrative coordination, with a focus on capturing and sharing the impact of local arts initiatives. She has completed four years of her Bachelor of Fine Arts and has presented research on interactivity in computer-based art at the SUNY New Paltz Undergraduate Art History Symposium. Her background as a visual artist informs a thoughtful and detail-oriented approach to her work in arts administration.

Alex Maltby Programming & Partnerships alex@artsottawa.ca Alex is a musician, arts administrator and programmer, living and working on unceded Algonquin Anishnaabe territory. He has played an active role in the local music and arts scene for nearly two decades, with a focus on community engagement, equity, and relationship building. At Arts Ottawa, Alex collaborates with various interest holders to develop and expand programs and strategic partnerships that support Ottawa's arts community. Past artistic experience includes programming and performing at renowned festivals across Canada, such as Pop Montreal, Megaphono, Bluesfest, CityFolk, Westfest, Arboretum Arts Festival, Ottawa International Animation Festival, as well as participating in international events like PATIOS in León, Spain.

Cassandra Olsthoorn Co-Leadership, Strategy & Community Mobilization cassandra@artsottawa.ca Cassandra has been leading and developing noteworthy projects for the Ottawa arts community through different roles at Arts Network Ottawa for 15 years. Her visionary, thoughtful approach to a team-driven workplace focuses on the delivery of dynamic programming and services to the community. Her unique brand of leadership has positioned Arts Ottawa as a collaborative champion within the sector. Cassandra is passionate about Ottawa and believes that the arts help build strong, vibrant communities.

Sponsorship We know the arts help build strong communities and we can help you tap into Ottawa’s creative economy. Our programs and events involve thousands of residents every year and engage representatives from local businesses and the three levels of governments. Let us help you grow your business by supporting the arts, and help us create a city where creativity and community thrive. Reach new audiences and make an impact by sponsoring one of our programs or events. All our sponsorships are fully customizable. Photo: Brooklyn Marok Professional Learning Develop arts entrepreneurs by sponsoring a Learning Series or sponsor of the Ottawa's Creative Continuum Conference, Mentorship for young arts professionals (annual), new Career Management and Arts Entrepreneurship Bootcamps. Arts Awards The investment you make demonstrates that you recognize the importance of artists who are aspiring and thriving in our community, and the contribution they make to our city. With your help, we can continue to create an environment where equity and diversity are celebrated, and artistic achievement is acknowledged and rewarded. In-Kind Products and Services Our events bring together dozens to hundreds of people from across our city, and in-kind donations are a great way to increase your visibility. Please reach out to Nicole to discuss any opportunities. Nicole Milne Co-Leadership, Operations and Revenue Generation nicole@artsottawa.ca Arts Ottawa Sponsorship Policy Arts Ottawa does not offer traditional sponsorship packages, such as logo placement, advertising space, tiered recognition, or naming rights. Instead, we focus on building values-based partnerships rooted in shared commitments to artists, equity, and long-term community impact. We work collaboratively with individuals, organizations, and businesses who want to invest meaningfully in Ottawa’s arts community. If you’re interested in supporting our work, we invite you to connect with us to explore a partnership aligned with our shared values. For more information, please contact: info@artsottawa.ca View Full Sponsorship Policy We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the businesses and organizations that have generously supported and partnered with Arts Ottawa; their commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural landscape has made a significant impact on our community. Our sponsors and partners play a crucial role in developing a thriving arts ecosystem, allowing us to continue our mission of advancing the arts in our region.


Action Labs and the Core Leadership Circle Action Labs and their Core Leadership Circles work together to move shared priorities into action. Photo: Jamaal Khaleefa ACTION LABS IN PROGRESS: → Shared Ground Initiative (click to learn more) → Social Impact Evaluation in the Arts (click to learn more) Arts Ottawa is listening closely to the local arts community. We are working to understand how we can collectively address the opportunities, challenges and priorities the sector is facing, that shape the sector’s role in city building. Arts Ottawa held three Collaborative Strategy Sessions to pilot a Core Leadership Circle (CLC) in late fall 2025. Community advisory members, partners, and sector leaders—those actively engaged in addressing challenges around spaces, local economic development, and impact measurement—shared experiences, tested ideas, and explored ways to coordinate collective action. By convening this CLC, we began building stronger connections across the sector to ensure Arts Ottawa’s work is informed by and reflects the realities of , Ottawa’s arts community. During our Collaborative Strategy Session on November 27, 2025, Ava Marguerite, one of our CAMs, joined to observe the session and share their experience and key takeaways as an Arts Correspondent. You can read the full article here. From these conversations, we and the CLC identified three Strategic Priority Pillars. Arts Ottawa is reframing these as interconnected components of Ottawa’s civic infrastructure. Physical Infrastructure: Artists need clearer pathways to engage with physical spaces, along with practical guidance on civic systems (planning development, zoning), and capital projects. Knowledge Infrastructure: Capturing and communicating sector impact is critical. Currently, data and storytelling are fragmented, and participants emphasized the need for simple, shared tools to make this work more effective. Economic Infrastructure: The sector is exploring ways to strengthen local economic development by supporting fair work, local ownership, equity, and long-term sustainability. Effective coordination and shared messaging are key to making this possible. Together, these layers create the infrastructure of cultural life — physical, economic, and social systems that sustain creativity and civic connection. Through this work, Arts Ottawa’s role in the sector has become clear: we serve as a backbone, convener, knowledge hub, and capacity builder, centering equity and representation. Looking ahead to 2026–2027, we will focus strategically on these core roles, engaging in project leadership selectively to maximize collective impact, support sustainable and coordinate sector growth. More about the Core Leadership Circle The Core Leadership Circle acts as a catalyst for activation, formed around each of our Action Labs. These purpose-driven groups bring together individuals, organizations, and advisors from both within and beyond the arts to support, shape, and champion the work being done. Each CLC is dedicated to exploring a key issue in the arts, offering insight, strategy, and connections, and is dissolved once that phase of the work evolves. Through its leadership, the CLC will help guide outcomes from Action Labs such as Shared Ground (which explores the potential of underused spaces as cultural hubs) and the Arts Ottawa Awards ( which celebrate and elevate the contributions of local artists and cultural leaders). More about Action Labs Action Labs are central to how we address key issues in the arts community. Each Lab focuses on a specific topic identified as important to artists and the community by our CAM. They may take the form of research groups, planning teams, advocacy hubs, or spaces for idea-sharing and collaboration. Each Lab is supported by a Core Leadership Circle, a group that helps guide the work and ensure its impact is shared with those who can drive broader change. Labs are formed in response to clear needs and conclude once their objectives are achieved, such as completing a project or sharing insights with the community. A Dual Approach to Change Project-Based Labs: These labs are designed to achieve specific goals, such as organizing a campaign or launching a new initiative. They have defined timelines and objectives and disband once the project is completed, or the goals are successfully met. Issue-Based Labs: These labs focus on ongoing challenges or policy-related issues. While they often operate on longer timelines, their purpose and impact are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain relevant and effective.