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Connect with local artists and give back to your community Volunteer Connect with local artists and give back to your community Photo: Quest Arts Ottawa is engaged in strategic conversations with public and private partners in relation to emerging cultural infrastructure development opportunities across the city. This work focuses on ensuring sector-informed input is considered in broader planning processes by advocating for clear, consistent data collection and evaluation measures to be embedded throughout. The goal is to build a practical evidence base that helps the sector better understand the logistics and feasibility of opening and sustaining arts-led spaces, including what is realistically achievable for smaller organizations and what conditions support long-term sustainability in independently run arts spaces. This stream of work supports a longer-term horizon goal of positioning the arts sector to be ready to engage with, respond to, and help shape major civic cultural infrastructure as these opportunities emerge across the city. Research, Advocacy & Planning The State of the Arts Map is an evolving research tool designed to strengthen Ottawa’s arts ecosystem by making its assets, resources, and opportunities more visible and connected. The map will identify and document creative infrastructure across the city, like studio spaces, learning environments, and community hubs, while capturing key information about their features, uses, and the resources that flow through them. By providing a clearer picture of what already exists and where gaps remain, the project helps break down silos, foster collaboration, and improve access to spaces and resources. The result is a more connected, informed, and resilient arts community, better equipped to support growth, advocacy, and long-term sector development. A collaboration with Memetic Media and Carleton Immersive Media Studio (CIMS) Lab. State of the Arts Map Learning Cohort Launching in fall 2026, this Learning Cohort supports people who are working toward creating physical arts and culture spaces. Through mentorship, resources, and peer learning, participants will receive practical support as they take the next steps toward bringing their vision to life. In exchange, participants will contribute to a shared learning process by documenting key aspects of their journey, helping capture what it actually takes to create and sustain an arts and culture space. Through guided reporting, the cohort will track challenges, costs, timelines, relationships, and decision-making processes involved in developing a space. This information will create valuable knowledge for the sector, helping identify barriers, gaps, and opportunities while strengthening support for future arts and culture space projects. The 300 Sparks Street Pop-Up is made possible through the generous support of Crown Property Management Inc, who recognize the placemaking and engaging power of artists. This summer activation, led by Cre8, provides artists with a platform to showcase their work as well as bringing more creative life to our downtown. This pop-up will also serve as a live feasibility study. By observing how the space is used, including foot traffic, visitor engagement, and operational realities, the project will help build a clearer understanding of what it takes to activate and sustain arts and culture spaces in downtown settings. This dual purpose allows the initiative to both animate the street in the present and generate valuable insight to inform future placemaking and space activations. Sparks Street Storefront A storefront activation on Bank Street will transform vacant commercial space into a public-facing arts venue. Aligned with the ACE District vision the project will increase the visibility of arts and culture while bringing new energy to the street. The initiative benefits landlords by activating vacant spaces, creates opportunities for future tenants, and helps revitalize the downtown core by bringing community engagement and restoring energy, creativity, and foot traffic to one of the city’s main streets. Vacant Storefront activation Arts Ottawa’s Learning Labs are a key part of our commitment to building capacity across the local arts sector. Through professional development opportunities, knowledge sharing, and collaborative learning, the program supports artists and arts organizations in strengthening skills, expanding networks, and responding to evolving community needs. By investing in continuous learning, the Learning Labs help build a more resilient, connected, and sustainable arts ecosystem, enhancing the capacity of individual artists, organizations, and Arts Ottawa alike. Learing Labs Happening now in Shared Ground: Want to register as a volunteer with Arts Ottawa? Fill out the form below: Volunteer Intake Form If you have any questions around volunteering, please email us at info@artsottawa.ca Please note that all volunteers must review and abide by our Volunteer Handbook . The Volunteer Hub Registered volunteers can access the Volunteer Hub Visit the Volunteer Hub If you have difficulty accessing the volunteer hub please contact info@artsottawa.ca Shaping the Volunteer Experience Together At Arts Ottawa, volunteers are at the heart of our work, from helping with events to shaping how we make decisions. But we know that volunteering isn’t always easy or accessible. That’s why we invited community members to join us in a co-creation session to map out what the volunteer experience should feel like, from the first time someone hears about us to when they move on to other things. Together, we looked at the full volunteer journey across five stages: Attract → Onboard → Engage → Grow → Exit What We Heard: A Volunteer Journey That Feels Welcoming, Clear, and Meaningful Attract People are drawn to Arts Ottawa when they feel they belong and when the purpose of the work is clear. But barriers like confusing language (“art speak”), lack of financial support, or not seeing themselves represented can make it harder to say yes. Onboard Volunteers want to feel seen and supported from the start. They asked for buddy systems, clear training, and welcome kits. When onboarding is unclear or inconsistent, it creates stress. Engage The key to keeping volunteers involved is feeling appreciated and connected. Good communication, flexible roles, and small gestures like food or thank-you messages go a long way. When roles are unclear or people feel left out, they start to disconnect. Grow Many volunteers want to build new skills or take on more responsibility. But we heard that there’s often no clear path forward. Mentorship, learning opportunities, and a way to track growth would help people stay longer and feel proud of their work. Exit When volunteers leave, they want closure. They suggested things like exit interviews, reference letters, and the chance to stay connected as mentors or alumni. Without this, volunteers leave without being thanked or without a way to return. What’s Next: How We’re Responding We’ve taken all this feedback to heart. Here’s how we’re starting to make changes in ways that work for our small team and help build long-term support for volunteers. 1. Laying the Groundwork for a Volunteer Hub As we grow, we plan to create a simple online space with everything in one place: open roles, training info, FAQs, and ways to get involved. When: Fall 2025 How It Helps: Makes it easier for people to get involved and stay involved at their own pace 2. Clear Role Snapshots We’re writing short and easy-to-read descriptions for all our main volunteer roles. These will explain what’s involved, how to get started, and any skills you can build along the way. When: Posted online by Fall of 2025 How It Helps: Makes it easier for people to find a role that fits them and understand what they’ll gain from the experience 3. Ongoing Recognition Dedicated monthly shoutouts to volunteers on social media channels showing our appreciation more often. We’ll also build a special recognition moment once a year at an event. When: January 2026 How It Helps: Keeps volunteers feeling valued, seen, and connected to the bigger picture 4. Quarterly Volunteer Meetups We’ll host low-key gatherings (online or in-person) every few months to say thank you, share updates, and stay connected. Volunteers can help plan or host. When: First session in March 2026 How It Helps: Builds relationships and makes space for feedback and celebration 5. A Better Welcome for Every Volunteer We’re creating a simple welcome sheet and matching each new volunteer with a contact person. This ensures you know what to expect and who to turn to for help, whether you're joining a short-term event or helping shape our programs. When: Starting Summer 2026 How It Helps: Reduces confusion and supports a stronger sense of belonging from Day 1 6. Exit and Return Pathways We’ll invite volunteers who are stepping back to fill out a short exit form. It’s a chance to reflect on what worked, what could improve, and whether they’d like to return or mentor in the future. When: Piloting in 2026 How It Helps: Builds long-term relationships and helps us learn from every volunteer experience We’re Building With You This roadmap is a starting point, and we’ll keep shaping it with your input. We’re working with limited staff and resources, so each change will be rolled out gradually. But the goal is clear: a volunteer experience that is welcoming, flexible, and rooted in community care. Want to get involved or offer feedback? Email Joni Hamlin at joni@artsottawa.ca Looking for other volunteer opportunities in Ottawa? Check out Volunteer Ottawa & Ottawa Festival Network

Short description How to ARTicipate | Get all your questions answered! Join Arts Ottawa for How to ARTicipate , an online info-session to help artists and arts organizations learn more about the ARTicipate Project Grant. How to ARTicipate July 28 | 12:00–1:00 PM Zoom REGISTER NOW

LaLande + Doyle Grant Guidelines DEADLINE: Applications closed ABOUT THE LALANDE + DOYLE EXHIBITION SPACE GRANT: Carefully review the ARTicipate Project Grant Guidelines (found below) and Terms and Conditions before completing the application. Use the guidelines as a reference when completing the application. The ARTicipate LaLande + Doyle Exhibition Space Grant supports public presentation and exhibition by visual artists and visual arts groups within the Shenkman Arts Centre’s LaLande + Doyle Exhibition Space. This may include individual, collaborative, or group exhibitions. Applicants can apply for up to $2,800 in funding to support their exhibition. Four projects will be selected for in this funding stream. CLICK HERE for more information about the LaLande + Doyle Exhibition Space at the Shenkman Arts Centre. The program will prioritize projects from artists and arts groups who self-identify as First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Black, People of Colour, 2SLGBTQ+, newcomers, immigrants, refugees, Older Adults, People with Disabilities, Francophones, and Rural Residents applying to the program. ELIGIBILITY: Lead applicants must be based in the Ottawa/Gatineau Region, including Pikwàkanagàn and Kitigan Zibi First Nations , and have a mandate to present arts programming or have an arts practice.  APPLICANTS MUST BE ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING:  An incorporated, not-for-profit arts organization   A non-incorporated arts collective (a group of two or more artists who are active in their discipline)  An individual artist  We welcome collaborative projects, involving more than one artist, arts organization or collective. Only one application is required for collaborative projects submitted by the lead applicant. Collaborators are not required to be based in the Ottawa/Gatineau region if the lead applicant is a local artist. If the application is successful, the lead applicant will be responsible for the grant, budgeting, fulfillment, and reporting requirements.  ELIGIBLE PROJECTS Presentation and exhibition of 2D visual artistic work in the Shenkman Arts Centre’s LaLande + Doyle Exhibition Space by local artists and arts organizations based in the Ottawa Region.  Please note: Artwork is to be hung on a track system or placed on the wall in the Exhibition Space.  Free-standing work that cannot be wall-mounted or hung on a track system is ineligible for this granting stream. Projects must take place between the provided dates *Please contact Alex at Arts Ottawa if you have question on your project’s eligibility in this stream INELIGIBLE APPLICANTS INCLUDE:  Artists and/or arts organizations whose reports for previous ARTicipate Grants are overdue or incomplete  Non-arts organizations (organizations whose primary mandate is not arts related)  For-profit organizations and businesses  Political parties   Government bodies or crown corporations  Board and staff members of Arts Network Ottawa  Resident Art Partners at the Shenkman Arts Centre  Participating jurors or peer-assessors of the ARTicipate Grant Program    INELIGIBLE PROJECTS INCLUDE:  Projects that have previously received an ARTicipate grant (previous ARTicipate Grant recipients are eligible to apply for new projects, provided they meet eligibility criteria)  For-profit, corporate ventures  Non-arts events and activities  Projects that are part of the programming or operations of the Resident Arts Partners of the Shenkman Arts Centre ELIGIBLE EXPENSES  Only expenses directly related to the project are eligible.  A full list of eligible expenses can be found in the FAQ and budget section of the application form. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: You can access the online application form above. Read all instructions carefully and complete all application questions and the budget form. Upon submitting successfully, you will receive a confirmation message. If you cannot access the online form, please contact noel@artsottawa.ca. Application Deadline: CLOSED Projects must take place in the Lalande + Doyle Exhibition Space. Late projects may be subject to grant repayment. Exact dates will be determined between Shenkman Arts Centre staff and the successful applicant upon receiving the grant. We encourage applicants to contact Arts Ottawa for any additional accessibility arrangements.  SUPPORT MATERIAL Applicants are to submit support material to be reviewed by the peer assessment committee.  Support material should demonstrate the applicant’s previous work and accomplishments as they relate to the application. This can include photos, video, links, or other documentation of past or proposed activities.   It is important that all materials are labelled with a description of the contents. BUDGET FORM All applicants are required to complete a detailed budget in their application form, outlining the allocation of grant funding, any additional funding sources and costs of project delivery. Grant recipients will have their projects insurance costs covered by Arts Ottawa and need not include this in their budget. Please reference this checklist to ensure you have properly completed all steps before submitting your application package APPLICATION ASSESSMENT ASSESSMENT CRITERIA The criteria used in the assessment process are the artistic relevance of the project, its viability and impact on the community. Both the application form and support material will be evaluated. Priority is given to projects meeting the funding objectives of the ARTicipate Project Grant.   Please refer to the assessment criteria below for more details: ARTISTIC RELEVANCE Project concept is distinct and unique Applicant has a clear vision and artistic goals that reflect the applicant’s mandate and/or artistic practice Relevant and compelling support materials PROJECT VIABILITY Demonstrated skills and capacity to successfully deliver project Effective budgeting, including an appropriate breakdown of expenses Clear plan for marketing and audience development and engagement IMPACT OF THE PROJECT Engages and/or reflects priority groups outlined in grant guidelines Clear impact on the development of the artist, group, or artistic project Appropriate use of available spaces and resources within the Shenkman Arts Centre RELEASE OF FUNDS Successful applicants will be notified by email. The grant recipient will work with Shenkman Arts Centre staff for final confirmation of booking dates within the facility. Funding will be released upon signing Booking and Grant contracts with the Shenkman Arts Centre and Arts Ottawa, and attendance of a mandatory ARTicipate Project Grant orientation session. REPORTING  Mandatory Final Reporting Forms will be provided to grant recipients. Grant recipients are encouraged to review the Final Reporting Form at the beginning of the project to ensure that they are prepared to collect and report on all required components.  This report must be submitted within 2 months upon the completion of funded project activities. IF YOU ARE NOT AWARDED FUNDING Grant assessment decisions are final. Applicants will receive a letter to indicate that they have not received funding. Applicants are encouraged to reapply at the next deadline. Applicants are encouraged to speak with the Program Manager to receive Jury feedback. The program’s limited funds are not sufficient to fund all applications, regardless of their merit. 

Short description September 12: Social Prescribing and Impact in the Arts - Registration Open

Short description June 1st - CWB Learning Lab 5 | Registration Open

Short description APPLY NOW : Arts Ottawa Call for photographers

The arts don't just enrich cities; they build them. As we head into the municipal election, we're bringing together artists, cultural workers, organizations, and residents to advocate for the investments and policies needed to support a thriving creative sector and a more vibrant city. Arts & Culture in Ottawa 2026 The arts don't just enrich cities; they build them. As we head into the municipal election, we're bringing together artists, cultural workers, organizations, and residents to advocate for the investments and policies needed to support a thriving creative sector and a more vibrant city. Photo: Noel Szabados Arts Ottawa is engaged in strategic conversations with public and private partners in relation to emerging cultural infrastructure development opportunities across the city. This work focuses on ensuring sector-informed input is considered in broader planning processes by advocating for clear, consistent data collection and evaluation measures to be embedded throughout. The goal is to build a practical evidence base that helps the sector better understand the logistics and feasibility of opening and sustaining arts-led spaces, including what is realistically achievable for smaller organizations and what conditions support long-term sustainability in independently run arts spaces. This stream of work supports a longer-term horizon goal of positioning the arts sector to be ready to engage with, respond to, and help shape major civic cultural infrastructure as these opportunities emerge across the city. Research, Advocacy & Planning The State of the Arts Map is an evolving research tool designed to strengthen Ottawa’s arts ecosystem by making its assets, resources, and opportunities more visible and connected. The map will identify and document creative infrastructure across the city, like studio spaces, learning environments, and community hubs, while capturing key information about their features, uses, and the resources that flow through them. By providing a clearer picture of what already exists and where gaps remain, the project helps break down silos, foster collaboration, and improve access to spaces and resources. The result is a more connected, informed, and resilient arts community, better equipped to support growth, advocacy, and long-term sector development. A collaboration with Memetic Media and Carleton Immersive Media Studio (CIMS) Lab. State of the Arts Map Learning Cohort Launching in fall 2026, this Learning Cohort supports people who are working toward creating physical arts and culture spaces. Through mentorship, resources, and peer learning, participants will receive practical support as they take the next steps toward bringing their vision to life. In exchange, participants will contribute to a shared learning process by documenting key aspects of their journey, helping capture what it actually takes to create and sustain an arts and culture space. Through guided reporting, the cohort will track challenges, costs, timelines, relationships, and decision-making processes involved in developing a space. This information will create valuable knowledge for the sector, helping identify barriers, gaps, and opportunities while strengthening support for future arts and culture space projects. The 300 Sparks Street Pop-Up is made possible through the generous support of Crown Property Management Inc, who recognize the placemaking and engaging power of artists. This summer activation, led by Cre8, provides artists with a platform to showcase their work as well as bringing more creative life to our downtown. This pop-up will also serve as a live feasibility study. By observing how the space is used, including foot traffic, visitor engagement, and operational realities, the project will help build a clearer understanding of what it takes to activate and sustain arts and culture spaces in downtown settings. This dual purpose allows the initiative to both animate the street in the present and generate valuable insight to inform future placemaking and space activations. Sparks Street Storefront A storefront activation on Bank Street will transform vacant commercial space into a public-facing arts venue. Aligned with the ACE District vision the project will increase the visibility of arts and culture while bringing new energy to the street. The initiative benefits landlords by activating vacant spaces, creates opportunities for future tenants, and helps revitalize the downtown core by bringing community engagement and restoring energy, creativity, and foot traffic to one of the city’s main streets. Vacant Storefront activation Arts Ottawa’s Learning Labs are a key part of our commitment to building capacity across the local arts sector. Through professional development opportunities, knowledge sharing, and collaborative learning, the program supports artists and arts organizations in strengthening skills, expanding networks, and responding to evolving community needs. By investing in continuous learning, the Learning Labs help build a more resilient, connected, and sustainable arts ecosystem, enhancing the capacity of individual artists, organizations, and Arts Ottawa alike. Learing Labs Happening now in Shared Ground: Arts Matter This Election Ottawa's artists, cultural workers, and creative organizations are more than contributors to our city's identity. They are a vital part of our economic and social infrastructure. As Ottawa grows, so does the need for investment in the cultural spaces, programs, and people that help our communities thrive. Arts and culture attract talent, support local businesses, animate neighbourhoods, and create the connections that make Ottawa a great place to live. This municipal election is an opportunity to ensure arts and culture receive the recognition and support needed to build the city we all want. A Stronger Voice for Ottawa's Arts Sector At Arts Ottawa's Community Forum earlier this year, Ottawa's arts community identified three pressing challenges: Access to affordable and appropriate creative space Rising costs that continue to outpace available funding Fragmented information that makes it difficult to navigate opportunities and resources In response, Arts Ottawa has brought together community priorities and City objectives into a focused set of tangible actions for municipal leaders. By speaking with one voice, we can advocate for meaningful change and help ensure Ottawa's cultural sector has the support it needs to flourish. Learn more about the Actions and how to get involved Click here to read the plain text of the actions 3 Key Actions. One United Voice for the Future of Ottawa's Arts & Culture. The arts don't just enrich cities. They help build them. The City of Ottawa recognizes culture as the fourth pillar of sustainability, and Ottawa's Official Plan identifies culture as a key component of its vision to become the most livable mid-sized city in North America. Arts and Culture Are How We Build the City We Planned Investing in arts and culture is an investment in Ottawa's economic, social, and community well-being. Arts and culture generated $65 billion for Canada's GDP in 2024, rising to $131 billion when indirect and induced impacts are included. Ontario's cultural sector contributes $28 billion to GDP, representing 43% of Canada's cultural economy and supporting approximately 458,000 jobs . Arts and culture tourism generates three times the economic impact of other forms of tourism. For every $1 invested in the arts , approximately $29 in economic activity is generated. It's Time for Action Arts Ottawa is calling on mayoral and council candidates to commit to three key actions that will help deliver on existing municipal commitments and build a more vibrant, prosperous Ottawa through a stronger arts and culture sector. Action #1: Establish a Cultural Infrastructure Reserve Fund Outcome: Accessible, affordable, and appropriate space to create and present Artists and organizations need stable, suitable places to produce and present work. As Ottawa develops, these are the spaces at risk of being priced or planned out of our reach. What the City can do: Establish a Cultural Infrastructure Reserve Fund. This Fund would be a dedicated, recurring mechanism to fund the renovation, retrofit, and creation of cultural spaces, capitalized through Community Benefits Charges under Ontario's Planning Act. Treating cultural space as a civic asset the City invests in and operationalizes, not a one-off grant. Action #2: Permanently Increase Cultural Funding Outcome: Fair pay and scaled investment in the arts A growing city cannot build its cultural life if creatives are underpaid and unpaid labour. Sustaining and scaling the sector means real operating stability and more room for artists and organizations to be properly compensated for the public value they create. What the City can do: Commit to a permanent increase to the cultural funding envelope in the city's budget, with increases tied to inflation and population growth, so funding keeps pace with the city rather than eroding against it. A modernized, indexed envelope opens additional operating and project grant opportunities, underwriting fair-work models across the sector. Action #3: Coordinate Arts and Culture Governance Across City Functions Outcome: Aligned and helpful guidance for cultural activities The sector is ready. It has ideas, relationships, and will. What we need is a unified City organized to move with it, instead of fragmented departmental strategies. What the City can do: Include arts and culture in the 2027 Governance Review. Commit to coordination within and across departments, commit to data sharing and shared frameworks, and finish and release the Municipal Culture Plan. Join Us as a United Voice for the Arts in Ottawa You asked Arts Ottawa to be the coordinating body of the arts sector, so we will champion these asks for you at City Hall, but we can get there faster if we're all voicing the same asks. Here are 3 ways you can help amplify these actions across the city: Email Candidates to Commit to Supporting the Arts Through the 3 Key Actions Ask mayoral and council candidates to pledge their support for: Action #1: Creating a Cultural Infrastructure Reserve Fund Action #2: Permanently increase cultural funding and attach it to inflation Action #3: Include arts and culture in the 2027 Governance Review. A pre-written email is available and can be customized with your organization's story. SEND A MESSAGE TO CANDIDATES Share The 3 Key Actions with Your Community - and spread the word on the impact of the arts! Circulate this PDF and Share the 3 Key Actions: In your newsletter On social media With your members With your board With community partners Join Ottawa’s Arts & Culture Mayoral Debate – September 29th – Arts Court Theatre Arts Ottawa and our partners are organizing a forum for the arts and cultural sector, to get answers about Ottawa's future from the people who want to lead it. Join us at the Arts Court Theatre to hear directly from mayoral candidates: Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, Councillor Jeff Leiper, Candidate Alex Lawson, and Candidate Neil Saravanamuttoo. Invite your staff, artists, volunteers, board members, and communities together to discuss the future of arts and culture in Ottawa. REGISTER NOW Mayoral Debate: Arts and Culture in Ottawa Hear Where Candidates Stand on Arts & Culture With Ottawa's municipal election taking place on October 26, Arts Ottawa brought mayoral candidates together for an important conversation about the future of arts and culture in our city. Candidates shared their vision for Ottawa and discussed the policies that will shape the future of the cultural sector. Co-hosted by Arts Ottawa, the Ottawa Festivals Network, and OMIC, and moderated by Marwan Mansour of CreativeMornings. Watch the Debate online here The Case for Cultural Investment Arts and culture are essential to delivering the vision outlined in Ottawa's Official Plan. To better understand the opportunities ahead and the impact of strategic cultural investment, explore our research and recommendations. Read Arts Ottawa's full report and sources here: A Framework for Delivering Ottawa's Official Plan Through Arts and Cultural Investment

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Below you will find events, resources, educational materials, and local Indigenous businesses and organizations to support year round. Jump to a category: Events Survivor Testimonials Phyllis Webstad Truth and Reconciliation Commission Reports Mental health Resources Local Indigenous Organizations and Businesses Online Educational Resources Truth and Reconciliation Commission Reports Truth and Reconciliation Commission Highlighted Reports All Truth and Reconciliation Commission Reports National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation Reports Legislation Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action Residential School Survivors and Testimonials About Phyllis Webstad Louise Longclaws: Residential school survivor explains the impact on her family Louise Hall: Residential school survivor: 'I grew up hating the colour of my skin.' Clifford Claw, Cora Voyageur, and Rose Grace Miller: Residential school survivors on the scars of abuse The Survivors Speak - A Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada The Witness Blanket: A Collaborative art piece containing hundreds of items reclaimed from residential schools, churches, government buildings and traditional and cultural structures from across Canada. Canada’s Residential Schools: Missing Children and Unmarked Burials Canada’s Residential Schools: The History, Part 1 Origins to 1939 Canada’s Residential Schools: The History, Part 2 1939 to 2000 Canada’s Residential Schools: The Inuit and Northern Experience Canada’s Residential Schools: The Métis Experience Canada’s Residential Schools: Reconciliation Tim Wolochatiuk: We Were Children (Documentary, Feature-length fiction) Events Ottawa Public Library: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Turning Learning into Action at the Library Digital Arts Resource Centre: DARC Highlights Indigenous Filmmakers and Co-Productions on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Canadian Museum of History: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Parliament Hill: National Commemorative Gathering: Remembering The Children – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Beechwood Cemetery: A Screening of the Story of a National Crime, and guided Reconciliation Tour Online Educational Resources Who's Land Am I On? A Beginner's Guide to Decolonization | Kevin Lamoureux | TEDxSurrey Separating children from parents: The Sixties Scoop in Canada The Indian Act: Its Ongoing Impact on First Nations | NDN POV Has Canada achieved reconciliation? | NDN POV | TVO Today All My Relations: A Podcast where hosts Matika Wilbur (Swinomish and Tulalip) , and Temryss Lane (Lummi Nation), explore relationships to land, to creatural relatives, and to one another. Indigenous Insights: An Evaluation Podcast Alanis Obomsawin: "Kanehsatake: 270 Years of Resistance" Nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up Alanis Obomsawin: Trick or Treaty? Local Indigenous Businesses and Organizations Beandigen Café Spirit Berry Adaawewigamig Kokom Scrunchies ADAAWE MĀDAHÒKÌ FARM OTTAWA ABORIGINAL COALITION Isaruit Inuit Arts Kelu’si Collective Deliaestelle Birch Bark Coffee Co. Mental Health Resources for Indigenous Peoples Hope for Wellness Helpline 1-855-242-3310 (Available 24/7 to all Indigenous people across Canada) The Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line 1-866-925-4419 (Learn more about coverage for professional counselling here. ) MMIWG2S+ Crisis Line (toll-free) 1-844-413-6649 Indian Residential School Survivors Society 1-800-721-0066 Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 Suicide Crisis Helpline 9-8-8

Arts Ottawa advocates for and enforces Safer Spaces. Safer Spaces Policy What is the Safer Spaces Policy? This safer spaces policy applies to all Arts Ottawa sponsored spaces and programs, including our in-person and online events, online platforms, emails, as well as any other spaces that Arts Ottawa hosts. The goal of safer spaces is to encourage all participants to work together to prevent or reduce harm, particularly for those who are often the targets of violence and harassment. Oppressive behavior that makes others feel unsafe will not be tolerated. Jump to section: Reporting Enforcement Feedback Reporting Please do not hesitate to contact us, at any time, if you feel unsafe or notice another person who feels or is being made to feel unsafe. Being made to feel “unsafe” means that you are experience discomfort, harassment caused by another individual or group of individuals. Any reports will be handled privately and will be acted upon with your safety in mind first. Anonymous reports will be fully investigated and taken seriously. We want you to be happy at our events and spaces. In no way, should you ever feel bad or guilty for reporting an incident. This policy exists for you and for fostering an inclusive space in which everyone can feel safe to participate. You have the option to provide your information if you choose to. Report an Incident Enforcement Arts Ottawa is dedicated to providing a harassment-free space for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity + expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, age, language, body size, race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, socioeconomic standing, or otherwise. Arts Ottawa does not tolerate harassment of participants in any form. Anyone who violates this safer space policy may be sanctioned, expelled, or banned from these spaces. If a person engages in harassing behavior, they will be asked to stop and expected to comply immediately. If the person continues to engage in harassing behavior, the organizers/coordinators retain the right to take any actions to keep the event, programs, spaces (online & physical) a welcoming space for everyone. This can include warning the offender or even expulsion, whether temporary or permanent, from Arts Ottawa spaces, events, and/or programs. Organizers/coordinators may take action to redress anything designed to, or with the clear impact of, disrupting the event or making the environment hostile for any participants. All reports, anonymous or otherwise, are investigated, discussed, and reviewed by Arts Ottawa Executive Director and/or Board or Directors President before action is taken. Questions, Concerns, or feedback? If you have any questions as to enforcement, review process, reporting process, etc. or have a suggestion to improve our safer spaces policy, please contact us using the button below. Contact Arts Ottawa

Creation and Development Grant Guidelines DEADLINE: Applications closed ABOUT THE CREATION & DEVELOPMENT GRANT: Carefully review the ARTicipate Project Grant Guidelines (found below) and Terms and Conditions before completing the application. Use the guidelines as a reference when completing the application. The ARTicipate Creation and Development grant supports the exploration, experimentation, and development of new artistic work for one week in the Richcraft Theatre at the Shenkman Arts Centre. Applicants can apply for up to $5000 (in addition to $5000 of in-kind support from the Shenkman Arts Centre, including rentals and staffing). The program will prioritize projects from artists and arts groups who self-identify as First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Black, People of Colour, 2SLGBTQ+, newcomers, immigrants, refugees, Older Adults, People with Disabilities, Francophones, and Rural Residents applying to the program. ELIGIBILITY: Lead applicants must be based in the Ottawa/Gatineau Region, including Pikwàkanagàn and Kitigan Zibi First Nations , and have a mandate to present arts programming or have an arts practice.  APPLICANTS MUST BE ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING:  An incorporated, not-for-profit arts organization A non-incorporated arts collective (a group of two or more artists who are active in their discipline) An individual artist We welcome collaborative projects, involving more than one artist, arts organization or collective. Only one application is required for collaborative projects submitted by the lead applicant.  Collaborators are not required to be based in the Ottawa/Gatineau region as long as the lead applicant is a local artist . If the application is successful, the lead applicant will be responsible for the grant, budgeting, fulfillment, and reporting requirements. PRIORITY WILL BE GIVEN TO:  Projects from equity seeking artists and groups who self-identify as First Nations, Inuit, Metis, Black, People of Colour, 2SLGBTQ+, immigrants, refugees, newcomers, Older Adults, People with Disabilities, Francophones, and Rural Residents   Successful proposals will demonstrate innovative and meaningful use of physical space at the Shenkman Arts Centre. We encourage applicants to explore bold and creative ways to engage with resources in the building. ELIGIBLE PROJECTS may include, but are not limited to: Rehearsals, choreography Design and/or creation of new artistic works (painting/visual arts/literary) Audio/film/multimedia production and project development Research aligning with your artistic practice Please contact Arts Ottawa (info@artsottawa.ca ) if you have questions about project eligibility. INELIGIBLE PROJECTS INCLUDE: Projects that do not occur or use spaces within the Shenkman Arts Centre Projects that do not take place during the specified date ranges Projects that have previously received an ARTicipate grant (previous ARTicipate Grant recipients are eligible to apply for new projects, provided they meet eligibility criteria) For-profit, corporate ventures Non-arts events and activities Presentation of public-facing performances or events (see our Events + Performance grant stream) Projects that are part of the programming or operations of the Resident Arts Partners of the Shenkman Arts Centre INELIGIBLE APPLICANTS INCLUDE: Artists and/or arts organizations whose reports for previous ARTicipate Grants are overdue or incomplete Non-arts organizations (organizations whose primary mandate is not arts related) For-profit organizations and businesses Political parties Government bodies or crown corporations Resident Art Partners at the Shenkman Arts Centre, including board and staff members of Arts Ottawa Participating jurors or peer-assessors of the ARTicipate Grant Program ELIGIBLE EXPENSES Only expenses directly related to the project are eligible. A full list of eligible expenses can be found in the FAQ and the budget section of the application form. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: You can access the online application form above. Read all instructions carefully and complete all application questions and the budget form. Upon submitting successfully, you will receive a confirmation message. If you cannot access the online form, please contact noel@artsottawa.ca. Application Deadline: Applications closed Projects must take place at the Shenkman Arts Centre. Late projects may be subject to grant repayment. Exact dates will be determined between Shenkman Arts Centre staff and the successful applicant upon receiving the grant. For more information about spaces within the Shenkman Arts Centre, please visit: https://shenkmanarts.ca/en/rentals . We encourage applicants to contact Arts Ottawa for any additional accessibility arrangements.  SUPPORT MATERIAL Applicants are to submit support material to be reviewed by the peer assessment committee.  Support material should demonstrate the applicant’s previous work and accomplishments as they relate to the application. This can include photos, video, links, or other documentation of past or proposed activities.   It is important that all materials are labelled with a description of the contents. BUDGET FORM All applicants are required to complete a detailed budget in their application form, outlining the allocation of grant funding, any additional funding sources and costs of project delivery. Grant recipients will have their projects insurance costs covered by Arts Ottawa and need not include this in their budget. Please reference this checklist to ensure you have properly completed all steps before submitting your application package. APPLICATION ASSESSMENT ASSESSMENT CRITERIA The criteria used in the assessment process are the artistic relevance of the project, its viability and impact on the community. Both the application form and support material will be evaluated. Priority is given to projects meeting the funding objectives of the ARTicipate Project Grant.   Please refer to the assessment criteria below for more details: ARTISTIC RELEVANCE Project concept is distinct and unique Applicant has a clear vision and artistic goals that reflect the applicant’s mandate and/or artistic practice Relevant and compelling support materials PROJECT VIABILITY Demonstrated skills and capacity to successfully deliver project Effective budgeting, including an appropriate breakdown of expenses Realistic, achievable goals, with a clear work plan and timeline IMPACT OF THE PROJECT Engages and/or reflects priority groups outlined in grant guidelines Clear impact on the development of the artist, group, or artistic project Appropriate use of available spaces and resources within the Shenkman Arts Centre RELEASE OF FUNDS Successful applicants will be notified by email. The grant recipient will work with Shenkman Arts Centre staff for final confirmation of booking dates within the facility. Funding will be released upon signing Booking and Grant contracts with the Shenkman Arts Centre and Arts Ottawa, and attending a mandatory ARTicipate Project Grant orientation session. Funding for the Creation and Development stream will be provided in 2 installments , with the final installment issued upon completion of the project and approval of final report. REPORTING  Mandatory Final Reporting Forms will be provided to grant recipients. Grant recipients are encouraged to review the Final Reporting Form at the beginning of the project to ensure that they are prepared to collect and report on all required components.  This report must be submitted within 2 months upon the completion of funded project activities. IF YOU ARE NOT AWARDED FUNDING Grant assessment decisions are final. Applicants will receive a letter to indicate that they have not received funding. Applicants are encouraged to reapply at the next deadline. Applicants are encouraged to speak with the Program Manager to receive Jury feedback. The program’s limited funds are not sufficient to fund all applications, regardless of their merit.