2024 Toronto Arts Council and Foundation Year in Review: Milestones and new beginnings 2024 has been a year of promise for the arts in Toronto. Over this past year, Toronto Arts Council and Foundation assisted with and championed the City of Toronto’s ambitious new culture plan Culture Connects: An Action Plan for Culture in Toronto, which includes an increase to Toronto Arts Council’s base budget of $2 million per year for the next five years; we celebrated 50 years of public investment in the arts through Toronto Arts Council, and the creative city this has built; and we reimagined our major fundraising event with the In Bloom Gala, an electric party that raised over one million dollars in support for our vital year-round programming. Here are some highlights for the year: Toronto Arts Council: Managed thousands of grant applications and funded outstanding art: Grants staff managed over 71 days of adjudication meetings, assessing 2,597 applications with requests of $45,383,463 and delivering a total of $23,853,422 through 886 grants to artists and arts organizations in Toronto. Launched our 50th Anniversary celebration in June with a public event at Luminato in the Square, attended by over 1,200 people; over the year, we spotlighted 50 artists and highlighted the benefits of the arts with our “Believe in Art” campaign. Engaged in research to better understand and demonstrate the importance of our work: Concluded a SSHRC funded research project, Fostering Integration Through the Arts: Learning from Toronto Arts Council’s Program for Newcomers and Refugees (FIT-ART), in partnership with the Toronto Metropolitan University; presented the initial findings of this project at the Metropolis Canada Conference in Montreal in March and will launch the final report in January. Began another SSHRC funded research project titled Funding Matters with University of Toronto Scarborough Campus about the importance and perception of public arts funding. Participated in “Pathways to Growth: Impact, Partnerships, Funding” organized by the Association of Arts Councils of Ontario (AACO) in Belleville in October. Spoke to our peers at key gatherings: Participated in “Advancing Data Strategies for Arts Funders: Turning the Idea of Data Strategy(ies) for Arts Funders into a Reality,” this past June, organized by the National Research Group and hosted by funders in Alberta in Calgary. Served as a panelist for Canadian Urban Institute’s 2nd Annual Summit, “State of Canada’s Cities Summit – Stepping Up.” Reached out to prospective applicants and helped convene communities: Organized 13 outreach and networking events for 1060 registered participants, including four grant information sessions, four combined community conversation / networking / information sessions, two multi-grant drop-in “office hour” events and three Black Arts Connect sessions. Toronto Arts Foundation: Recognized and celebrated the achievements of outstanding artists and arts organizations through our various awards: In April we named the recipients of five awards at our annual Mayor’s Arts Lunch: Pan Fantasy received the $20,000 Arts for Youth Award, Destinie Adélakun received the $10,000 Breakthrough Artist Award, Rina Fraticelli received the $10,000 Celebration of Cultural Life Award, Anthony Gebrehiwot received the $10,000 Community Arts Award, Laurence Lemieux received the $10,000 Muriel Sherrin Award. In May we gathered at the City of Toronto’s Newcomer Day to celebrate six newcomer artists: Mahsa Alikhani, Gaby Al Botros, Andrea Nirmala Widjajanto, Jelica Mijanovic, Leandro Matos and Niloufar Ziaee each received $2,500 as part of our Newcomer Artist Award. Through our Space Award: Tan VU, Nami Ueno, Leen Hamo, Felipe Tellez, Dana Prieto and Melika Saeeda each received $500 cash and $2,000 in credit to be used for studio space; we expanded our partnerships to serve performing artists: space partners now include AKIN, Small World Centre, Unity Charity and Factory Theatre. In June, Dánae Olano was named the recipient of the $10,000 Breakthrough Jazz Artist Award. Connected artists with industry professionals through our Mentor in Residence program, managed by our Neighbourhood Arts Network. In total, we worked with 18 multi-disciplinary mentors who contributed over 245 mentorship hours, providing support to 95 mentees. Provided opportunities for 25 youth media artists who are Indigenous, Black and People of Colour and/or 2SLGBTQ+ to gain professional experience, skills and network in the media arts industry through ArtWorksTO. This program operates in partnership with our Neighbourhood Arts Network, the City of Toronto, OCAD U and The Remix Project. $100,000 in industry contracts were awarded to the cohort, with an additional $120,000 industry contracts awarded to program alumni. ArtWorksTO received the City’s Manager’s Award for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in September. Provided arts board volunteers the opportunity to gather and learn effective governance practices through our Creative Champions Network workshops led by Michelle Yeung. A total of five workshop sessions took place throughout the year, featuring seven speakers and inspiring 223 arts champions to serve their arts organizations better and more effectively. Engaged audiences with free, accessible, high-caliber art of all kinds throughout the summer through Arts in the Parks. A total of 877 artists brought 295 events to 33 parks across the city in 18 wards, bringing together approximately 92,800 audience members through unique and memorable arts experiences. In November, our Mayor’s Evening for the Arts raised $1,040,000 to support our programming in 2025, helping to build careers, strengthen networks and create greater access to the arts throughout Toronto. Both Organizations Celebrated Toronto Arts Council board members: Thanked outgoing board members Amanda Hancox, Richard Paquet and maxine bailey. Celebrated Toronto Arts Foundation board members: Welcomed incoming members Stefan Baranski, Bob Blazevski, Nasir Noormohamed, Sage Paul, Orit Sarfaty, Jonathan Simmons and Mike Yorke and thanked outgoing directors Devyani Saltzman and Danielle Labossiere Parr. Welcomed and celebrated joint Toronto Arts Council and Foundation staff: Celebrated Kadija de Paula in her new role as Senior Manager, Impact & Evaluation. Welcomed Francois Lebas, Manager, Data Analytics and Sarah Mangialardo, Senior Executive Coordinator. Welcomed Toronto Arts Council staff: Tafiya Itiaba-Bayah, Program Manager, Dance Programs Welcomed and celebrated Toronto Arts Foundation staff: Celebrated Alandra McKirdy in her new role as Coordinator, Special Events Welcomed Courtney Fiddis, Senior Manager, Development, Elizabeth (Liz) Tsui, Coordinator, Outreach & Awards, Hemangi Shroff, Coordinator, Membership & Engagement, Sophie Brzozowski, Senior Coordinator, Philanthropy, Lucy Reddy, Senior Coordinator, Philanthropy 2025 promises to be even better. Our organizations are preparing for future growth to support creative opportunities for everyone in our city through a new Strategic Plan which we expect to launch in the spring along with a renewed digital presence to serve Torontonians better. We will continue to build bridges, to listen, engage, and connect while pursuing our vision of a better Toronto for everyone through the arts. In addition to boosting the economy and creating jobs, we see every day how the arts contribute to healthy and whole communities, reduce isolation, promote well-being, and so much more. This is the power of the arts. In addition to boosting the economy and creating jobs, we see every day how the arts contribute to healthy and whole communities, reduce isolation, promote well-being, and so much more. This is the power of the arts. It is why the arts are fundamental to peoples’ lives and to a caring, vibrant city, and why we will continue to work with our public and private partners to support the arts and make the case for increased investments in this critical sector. Thank you to our dedicated staff, board, and committee members, volunteers, and community members who directly contributed to our success in 2024. Thank you to all of Toronto Arts Council’s grant recipients for their inspiring work, to Toronto Arts Foundation donors and sponsors for fueling our vital programs, and to Mayor Olivia Chow, Toronto City Council, and our colleagues at the City of Toronto for continuing to believe and invest in the arts. Finally, thanks to every Toronto resident who attended or engaged in an arts experience this year and, by doing so, helped to sustain our unique creative city. I look forward to connecting with you in 2025. Sincerely, Kelly Langgard Director & CEO Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation
Welcome Tafiya, TAC’s new Dance Program Manager Welcome, Tafiya! In August, Toronto Arts Council welcomed Tafiya Itiaba-Bayah to the team as our new Dance Program Manager. Tafiya is an Afro-Canadian movement artist with roots in Saint Lucia and Ghana. A graduate of OCAD University, he has worked with movement and dance as his primary method of expression and exploration for over 15 years. Through street dance culture, music, and movement he has been able to find his voice and empower artists in the GTA and abroad. He has trained, facilitated, competed, performed, and traveled internationally in order to hone his craft. He continues to support the advancement of the Canadian dance community through the development of community programs and resource sharing. Creating opportunities to question the experiences, systems, and environments we live in has been a key component of his community arts practice. He remains grounded in a long term vision of creating healthier and more supportive environments for dancers to grow in community or commercial settings. Please reach out to Tafiya any time with questions about TAC’s Dance Projects or Dance Operating programs. Contact info:Tafiya Itiaba-BayahProgram Manager, Dance416-392-6802 x 224tafiya[at]torontoarts[dot]org
Celebrating 50 years of Toronto Arts Council Toronto Arts Council (TAC) is launching its 50th anniversary with a free and public Community Celebration, taking place from 6 – 9:30 p.m. on June 13 at Luminato in the Square. Featuring main stage and on-the-ground performances and activities, the event invites all Torontonians to celebrate the amazing contributions of artists and arts organizations to our city. “Toronto Arts Council’s investment in artists and arts organizations is an investment in Toronto and has helped shape the identity of the city. Our work continues to ensure Toronto is a vibrant, cultural, desirable place to live and visit,” says Kelly Langgard, Director & CEO of Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation. “As a community-led organization that encourages civic engagement, belonging and inspiration, it’s important that we celebrate our 50th milestone in an open and representative way; through our Community Celebration we’re giving collective thanks to our artists for shaping the city we see today while we look ahead to 50 more years of cultural growth and care.” Established in 1974 with a total budget of $315,000, TAC awarded its first grants to 14 arts organizations. Today, TAC’s granting budget nears $25 million annually with hundreds of organizations, collectives and individuals receiving financial support to create and present artistic work. Public funding for the arts, championed by The City of Toronto since 1974, and delivered through TAC’s peer review process, has been integral to the city’s vitality. The Community Celebration will showcase just some of the artists that TAC and its affiliate Toronto Arts Foundation support. Hosted by Britta B., the event will feature performances by the youth steel pan band Pan Fantasy, Indigenous Cellist and Composer Cris Derksen, award-winning Tapestry Opera, DJ Berma with collaborator and mentee Blakkpharoah in partnership with InterAccess video artists, and more. Visual artists Monica Wickeler and Elder Philip Cote will be leading participatory creation opportunities for audiences of all ages. The Celebration is made possible, in part, by Toronto Arts Foundation. Join us and celebrate the power of the arts at TAC’s 50th anniversary launch event, happening at Luminato in the Square. For 10 days from June 7 – 16, David Pecaut Square will be transformed into Luminato in the Square, where festivalgoers will have free entry to enjoy concerts, performances, interactive activities, food vendors, and bustling markets. This lively outdoor festival atmosphere complements the recently announced June programme to create a rich 2024 experience that will animate the city in fresh and surprising ways. Toronto Arts Council’s 50th Anniversary Celebration at Luminato in the Square Curated by Toronto Arts Council Date: Thursday, June 13 Time: 6-9:30 p.m. David Pecaut Square Entry: Free For more information about the 50th Anniversary Community Celebration, visit Toronto Arts Council’s website. -30- About Toronto Arts Council Toronto Arts Council (TAC) is the City of Toronto’s funding body for artists and arts organizations. Since 1974, TAC has offered innovative and responsive programs, enabling artists and arts organizations to explore, create and thrive. With funding of over $25 million annually, TAC grants lead to exhibitions, performances, readings and workshops seen each year by over five million people across the city. TAC is proud to play a leadership role in fostering Toronto’s dynamic and diverse arts scene. www.torontoartscouncil.org About Toronto Arts Foundation Toronto Arts Foundation is a charitable organization that sparks creative connections, spotlights artistic excellence, and supports vibrant cultural growth throughout our diverse city through private-sector investment. About Luminato Luminato Festival Toronto is a convenor and catalyst for big, bold contemporary works of art. Each June, Luminato kicks off the summer with a festival to welcome the world to Toronto, commissioning, producing, and presenting exceptional Canadian and international artists. Throughout the year, Luminato works with artists from the diverse cultures and communities of the city’s region, supporting creative development, and bringing their art to the world stage. We connect local voices with global conversations and ground our work in equity, inclusion, accessibility, and sustainability. Most importantly, we believe in the power of art to start conversations and inspire audiences. Contact Sarah Gladki, Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications, Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation: sarah@torontoarts.org
2023 Toronto Arts Council and Foundation Year in Review During my first week as Director & CEO of Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation in January this year, I hit the ground running with a deputation to Economic & Community Development Committee to emphasize vital importance of the arts – and public funding for the arts – for the city. It was an introduction that signaled our organizations’ drive and responsibility to serve Toronto’s arts communities with transparency, trust and openness: the pillars that form the foundation of our many relationships. I’ve gotten to know and collaborate with many city staff who know the value of the arts, and, thanks to our collective efforts this year, continue to seek ways to help us better achieve our mandate with more impact. I’ve also gotten to know our incredible boards of directors who give their time and passion to helping us empower artists through funding and initiatives; so many inspiring artists and arts leaders whose drive to create and produce make our city better; and the many audiences I’ve met around the way, left engaged, thoughtful and connected after experiencing powerful art. In addition to feeling inspired by our work and the possibilities ahead, Artscape’s insolvency in late summer highlighted the precariousness of arts infrastructure support in our city. There’s a lot of work we need to do to help artists and arts organizations. Temporary fixes simply will not do. If the city’s response to step in during this situation signaled anything, it’s that they are willing partners and supporters of the cause for maintaining permanent artist live/work space. I feel incredibly confident in the future of our organizations and our ability to support artists of all disciplines, backgrounds and approaches, in all corners of our city. As we finish the year we’re entering 2024 with renewed vigour, conviction and vision; We are Toronto’s Arts Council and Toronto’s Arts Foundation, and we’re here to serve. Highlights in 2023 include: For Toronto Arts Council: Continued our advocacy work to center the arts during the Mayoral by-election, resulting in reaffirmation of Mayor Olivia Chow’s commitment to increase investment to TAC during Arts Day at the City. Collaborated with the City on the development of a new culture plan and contracted Monumental to begin this work, which so far has involved many TAC and Foundation staff during eight community consultations. Welcomed Devyani Saltzman to both boards, including as President for TAC. Grants staff managed over 77 days of adjudication meetings, assessing 2,629 applications with requests of $45,906,400. Helped fund outstanding art: we recommended 911 grants to artists and arts organizations with a total value of $23,703,007. Worked with funders across Canada to launch the new CADAC system and streamlined our own operating applications to be more accessible. Through the work of our internal access working group, improved the accessibility of our online application system, TAC Grants Online, by working with a blind consultant and participated in accessibility training for online meetings. Began a SSHRC funded research project with Toronto Metropolitan University on newcomer integration focused on TAC’s Newcomer & Refugee Artist Mentorship Program. Welcomed Caitlin Loney, Administrator, Grants Support to the team. Celebrated Sarah Miller-Garvin in her new role as Interim Program Manager, Theatre, covering for Elahe Marjovi’s parental leave. Presented our annual work to the City’s Economic & Community Development Committee, effectively communicating TAC’s strong connection to the arts community, leadership in equity and inclusion and the impact of our work and ability to respond to the challenges faced by Toronto’s artists and arts organizations. Welcomed incoming board members Councillor Alejandra Bravo and Sally Lee and thanked outgoing member Ana Serrano. For Toronto Arts Foundation: Recognized and celebrated the achievements of outstanding artists and arts organizations through our various awards, distributed throughout the year. A total of $133,000 was distributed to award finalists and recipients. In April we named the recipients of five awards at our annual Mayor’s Arts Lunch: Nia Centre for the Arts received the $20,000 Arts for Youth Award, Oluseye Ogunlesi received the $10,000 Breakthrough Artist Award, R.I.S.E. Edutainment received the $10,000 Community Arts Award, Naomi Johnson received the $10,000 Margo Bindhardt and Rita Davies Award and Joy Lapps received the $10,000 Muriel Sherrin Award. In May we gathered at the City of Toronto’s Newcomer Day to celebrate six newcomer artists: filmmaker Halime Akturk, media artist Faisal Karadsheh, multidisciplinary artist Vladimir Kanic, visual artist Leila Refahi, visual artist Chico Togni and sculpture and installation artist Lana Yuan each received $2,500 as part of our Newcomer Artist Award. Through our Newcomer Space Award: dance artist Irina Lerman, multidisciplinary artist Azadeh Pirazimian, sculpture and installation artist Helio Eudoro Rodriguez Junior, visual artist Chico Togni, visual and community artist Kseniya Tsoy and sculpture and installation artist Lana Yuan each received $500 cash and $2,000 in credit to be used for sharing studio or exhibition space at Akin. In June, Kae Murphy was named the recipient of the $10,000 Emerging Jazz Artist Award. In October Sandra Laronde received our $20,000 Indigenous Artist Award and named Kehew Buffalo as the recipient of the $5,000 mentee prize. Continued to connect artists with industry professionals through our Mentor in Residence program, managed by our Neighbourhood Arts Network. In total, we worked with 17 multi-disciplinary mentors who contributed over 160 mentorship hours, providing support to 145 mentees. ArtWorksTO, another program managed by our Neighbourhood Arts Network in partnership with the City of Toronto, OCAD U and The Remix Project, provided opportunities for 12 youth media artists who are Indigenous, Black and People of Colour and/or 2SLGBTQ+ to gain professional experience, skills and network in the media arts industry. $48,000 in industry contracts were awarded to the cohort. Arts in the Parks continued to engage audiences with free, accessible, high-caliber art of all kinds throughout the summer and fall months. A total of 847 artists brought 267 events to 36 parks across the city, bringing together approximately 69,450 audience members through unique and memorable arts experiences. Arts board volunteers continued to gather and learn effective governance practices through our Creative Champions Network workshops. A total of 5 workshop sessions took place throughout the year, inspiring 188 arts champions to serve their arts organizations better and more effectively. Gathered with 80 artists, policy makers and arts workers through our two-day Emergence symposium this spring. Through 23 workshops, panels and sessions we dug into the importance of creative exploration and play for the well-being of artists and audiences and focused on the potential of the arts to inspire and support climate action. In November, our Mayor’s Evening for the Arts raised over $950,000 to support our initiatives. Building on the momentum of this great turnout, real estate development firm Castlepoint Numa stepped forward with a challenge to help us reach our $1M goal, committing to match all gifts up to 25K until December 31, 2023. Welcomed incoming board member Sage Paul and thanked outgoing member Terry Nicholson. Internally, we: Restructured the organizations following a two-day staff retreat in the summer, with expanded or changed roles for many, to improve efficiency and impact. We are excited to approach our work with renewed energy and strategic alignment Celebrated Kadija De Paula and Andrew Suri as they transitioned into new roles within the organizations Bid farewell to Susan Wright, Deputy Director, after 24 outstanding years of service and championship Welcomed four new members our teams, including Selina McCallum, Clau Souza, and two new members of our leadership cohort, Dane Bland and Rupal Shah. 2023 was filled with great accomplishments, but my colleagues and I at Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation are committed to doing even better in the coming years. 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of TAC. As we look back on what we’ve built over the years, we’re looking forward and envisioning a Toronto that fully embraces, supports and celebrates its artists as integral to building the city and world we want and need. Thank you for your amazing support to date, and we’ll see you in the new year. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season! Best, Kelly Langgard, Director & CEO Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation
Action Plan for Toronto’s Culture Sector The City of Toronto is developing a new Action Plan for Toronto’s Culture Sector, to guide cultural services, policy and programming for ten years spanning 2024 to 2034. The previous culture plan, Creative Capital Gains, an Action Plan for Toronto [PDF] , was adopted in 2011 and has guided cultural policy and programming since then. The new plan will set out an ambitious vision to strengthen Toronto’s cultural sector and ensure that residents in all corners of the city have opportunities to engage with the arts. It will provide recommendations for the arts and culture sector, film and entertainment industries, and museums and heritage, and provide direction as the City and the sector work collectively to rebuild and address pressing challenges faced by the cultural sector. In collaboration with Toronto Arts Council, the City will gather information from external interested parties and members of the public through a robust community engagement process that will inform the new culture plan. Monumental has been contracted to develop and implement a public consultation and engagement process that will inform the development of the Action Plan. Information about engagement opportunities will be posted to the City’s website. There is also a subscribe button on the City’s page for those interested in receiving updates about the process.
New Directors Elected at 2023 Annual General Meeting On Monday, the Boards of Directors of Toronto Arts Council (TAC) and Toronto Arts Foundation gathered at their joint Annual General Meeting to celebrate accomplishments, elect new members and thank outgoing directors for their service. Many staff members were also in attendance. Toronto Arts Council In her first AGM as Chair of the board of Toronto Arts Council, Celia Smith remarked that the 2022-2023 fiscal year was “a year of transition as well as accomplishment.” Among the statistics that Celia referenced, she highlighted the number of first time grant recipients, totalling 287 in 2022, as particularly notable for its impact. Celia thanked her fellow directors for their devotion, including outgoing member Ana Serrano, who emphasized the importance of data and research during her time on the board, and helped TAC deepen its relationships with academic institutions. Celia also thanked Jason Ryle who stepped down from the board in 2022 while serving as President. Jason, Celia said, was “always passionate and open about the issues facing artists, and helped make sure that during the height of the pandemic we remained responsive.” At this meeting, the Board of Directors elected Devyani Saltzman as President. Devyani is a writer and curator who has extensive experience working in the arts sector in Toronto and Canada. She joined TAC’s board in 2021. “I’m truly thrilled to serve on the board of Toronto Arts Council in this new capacity as President. It’s a critical time for our city, and for our artists and arts organizations. I hope to bring my experience and leadership in cultural institutions and passion for public policy to the role. We need advocacy now more than ever. I intend to champion that in service to our sector and many communities, working in collaboration with my fellow Directors to guide TAC at this pivotal time.” – Devyani Saltzman Toronto Arts Council’s Board of Directors also welcomed incoming member Sally Lee, Executive Director, Canadian Independent Screen Fund, and independent consultant. Toronto Arts Foundation Dr. Sara Diamond, who also participated in the AGM for the first time as Chair of Toronto Arts Foundation, referenced the safe return of in-person events, notably the Toronto Arts Awards Lunch and the Mayor’s Evening for the Arts, as highlights for the organization. Milestone donations of $1M each from The Slaight Family Foundation and the Hal Jackman Foundation to the Toronto Arts Foundation Resiliency Fund, along with many individual donors, stood out as major accomplishments, as well as the Foundation’s research and advocacy efforts in the lead-up the the 2023 Mayoral By-Election. Sara thanked outgoing board member Terry Nicholson for his generous insight, noting that “his passion and commitment to the belief the arts are a central component to vibrant cities match the Foundation’s work.” Toronto Arts Foundation’s Board of Directors welcomed incoming member Devyani Saltzman who, as President of the board of TAC, will bring valuable perspectives to the Foundation’s board. In her closing remarks, Kelly Langgard, Director & CEO, Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation thanked former Director & CEO Claire Hopkinson for her 17 years of success in leading the organizations. Of the staff and board members, Kelly said that “I’m happy to work with people who share the same goal of making Toronto a better place for artists and arts organizations, and a better place for everyone who lives here, by doing the work we do in the arts.” Kelly noted that TAC and the Foundation share complimentary mandates and activities and bring unique value, strength and potential to Toronto. Through upcoming initiatives and partnerships, Kelly said that she’s looking forward to telling the story of the impact and value of the arts to the city. TAC and the Foundation released their 2022 annual reports which are now available online.
Kelly Langgard to join Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation as Director & CEO Today, Toronto’s funding agency for the arts, Toronto Arts Council (TAC) and its affiliate city-wide charity, Toronto Arts Foundation, together with their Boards of Directors, announce that Kelly Langgard has been named as the organizations’ new Director & CEO. Claire Hopkinson, who held the position for 17 years and announced her resignation in March 2022, will continue as CEO until the end of this year. Kelly will assume the role effective January 9, 2023. With a career in the arts spanning 25 years in Canada and internationally, working at organizations both large and small, Kelly has a great understanding of the arts ecology and the particular social and cultural dynamics of Toronto. Kelly is deeply committed to equity, access and inclusion, and is a visionary leader with a proven track record in partnership building and strategic thinking. Kelly’s hire comes after an extensive search led by Search Committee Co-Chairs Celia Smith (CEO, Luminato Festival and Chair, TAC) and Gaëtane Verna (Executive Director, Wexner Center for the Arts and Past President, TAC), with members Gary Crawford (Toronto City Councillor and board member, TAC), Dr. Sara Diamond (President Emerita, OCAD University and Chair, Toronto Arts Foundation), Jason Ryle (Past Executive Director, ImagineNative and President, TAC), Michael Sinclair (General Manager, Obsidian Theatre, and board member, TAC) and Susan Wright (Deputy Director, TAC and Toronto Arts Foundation). The search was facilitated by Jason Murray & Melissa Sumnauth of BIPOC Executive Search, a firm specializing in inclusive and diversity recruitment. “I am honoured to be joining Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation to build on their leadership in fostering Toronto’s vital arts scene. Supporting artists to thrive and connect – locally, nationally, and internationally – has been my life’s work and I am excited to bring this experience to a city as vibrant and diverse as Toronto. I look forward to collaborating with the TAC and Foundation’s dedicated staff, board members and committees, as well as the City of Toronto, partners, and donors to realize an ambitious, inclusive, resilient and expansive vision for Toronto arts and communities.” – Kelly Langgard “Together with BIPOC Executive Search and members of the Search Committee, we welcomed applications from around the world from people who were interested in becoming the next Director & CEO of Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation. It was an extensive process with full commitment from everyone involved. As Co-Chair of the Search Committee, heartfelt thanks to the committee members for the work done with purpose, integrity and deep respect; I also want to acknowledge all of the candidates who we met throughout the search process for their interest and dedication to the work of TAC & the Foundation.” – Gaëtane Verna “On behalf of the Board of Toronto Arts Council, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to Kelly Langgard and congratulate her as she takes this next step in her esteemed career. Her professional experience, respect for the work of TAC and understanding of the current arts landscape in Toronto and beyond inspires confidence that she will lead the Council with intelligence and care in this new exciting phase.” – Celia Smith “The Board of Toronto Arts Foundation and I are looking forward to working with Kelly to build on the Foundation’s incredible growth and impact. Kelly expresses a great understanding of the synergies between the Foundation and our affiliate TAC, not to mention a clear vision as a leader and advocate for artists. These qualities and others perfectly complement the work we’re doing to increase access to the arts and strengthen Toronto’s cultural landscape.” – Dr. Sara Diamond “I’d like to express my thanks to the hiring committee for the care and thoroughness that was put into the hiring process. It was a lot of work and they did a tremendous job. I have confidence that Kelly Langgard is going to be an exceptional leader, bringing the right skills at the right time to these two wonderful organizations. I look forward to a smooth transition, and to the evolution of Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation under Kelly’s leadership.” – Claire Hopkinson, Director & CEO, Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation ABOUT | Kelly Langgard has more than 25 years of experience in public policy, arts funding, governance, strategic planning, partnerships and government and stakeholder relations. She has led various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting more opportunities for artists and arts professionals. Kelly began her career at Calgary’s Herland Feminist Film Festival before becoming Executive Director of Images Festival in Toronto, during which time she served on the boards of the Canadian Filmmakers Distribution Centre and the Independent Media Arts Alliance. She has held a number of positions at Canada Council for the Arts: Media Arts Officer, Head of Audience and Market Development, Head of Partnership and International Coordination and Manager of Strategic Research Initiatives. She has also held the positions of Senior Advisor for Cultural Diplomacy at Global Affairs Canada, and Program Manager at the Canadian Commission for UNESCO. Kelly is currently the Director of Granting at Ontario Arts Council. Kelly is replacing outgoing Director & CEO, Claire Hopkinson. Since 2005, Claire has developed Toronto Arts Council into Canada’s leading municipal arts council, nearly tripling its investment in Toronto’s arts community, with a $25 million annual budget. Committed to supporting the entire arts ecosystem, Claire has worked with partners and colleagues to build strategic funding opportunities for the city’s artists and arts organizations, both through TAC and its affiliate Toronto Arts Foundation. -30- About Toronto Arts Council Toronto Arts Council (TAC) is the City of Toronto’s funding body for artists and arts organizations. Since 1974, TAC has offered innovative and responsive programs, enabling artists and arts organizations to explore, create and thrive. With funding of over $25 million annually, TAC grants lead to exhibitions, performances, readings and workshops seen each year by over 5 million people across the city. TAC is proud to play a leadership role in fostering Toronto’s dynamic and diverse arts scene. www.torontoartscouncil.org About Toronto Arts Foundation Toronto Arts Foundation is a charitable organization that sparks creative connections, spotlights artistic excellence, and supports vibrant cultural growth throughout our diverse city, through private sector investment. To learn more or to make a donation, visit torontoartsfoundation.org. Contact information For more information, please contact: Sarah Gladki, Communications Manager at sarah@torontoarts.org or 416-392-6802 x 217
Claire Hopkinson moving on from role as Director & CEO, Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation The Boards of Directors of Toronto Arts Council (TAC) and Toronto Arts Foundation announce the upcoming departure of Claire Hopkinson, Director & CEO. After 17 years of inspired leadership and exceptional achievements, Claire Hopkinson has decided to leave her position to pursue new opportunities at the end of this year. Since 2005, Hopkinson has developed Toronto Arts Council into Canada’s leading municipal arts council, nearly tripling its investment in Toronto’s arts community, with a $25 million dollar annual budget. Committed to supporting the entire arts eco-system, Claire has worked with partners and colleagues to build strategic funding opportunities for the city’s artists and arts organizations. Of particular note has been her focus on ensuring that both TAC’s granting and its governance are representative of the people and art forms of the City. Further, she has worked tirelessly to bring the arts into the forefront of civic leadership, recognizing the transformative powers of the arts to city building. Claire’s impact on Toronto Arts Foundation has been equally impressive. As the city’s leading arts charity, the Foundation under Claire’s leadership has pursued its vision to enrich every neighbourhood through the transformative benefits of the arts. Attracting unprecedented levels of philanthropic support for the Foundation’s work, Claire has created exceptional fundraising opportunities and events including the very popular Mayor’s Evening for the Arts. The primary force behind the development of Arts in the Parks and the Neighbourhood Arts Network, Claire has created meaningful opportunities for artists and audiences in every corner of the city. In 2017 Claire was presented with a Meritorious Service Medal by the Governor General of Canada in recognition of her work in the arts community and she leaves both organizations in a state of stability and achievement. “I came to TAC and Foundation as an artistic producer with a personal understanding of what the arts are capable of, and of the challenges facing artists and arts organizations. It’s been an incredible privilege these last 17 years to tackle these challenges, to find opportunities to expand the reach of the arts across the city and to help give voice to the rich diversity of incredible artists Toronto is home to. I’ve been blessed to work with an exceptional team of talented and committed colleagues and two supportive and knowledgeable boards of directors. I have sincerely loved working with, and learning from, each one of them! I also treasure the numerous and important relationships developed along the way, with civic leaders, arts colleagues, visionary philanthropists, academics and community partners. I’m proud of the two organizations I am leaving and look forward to witnessing the next generation of leadership move Toronto’s arts sector forward.” While the Board and staff of TAC and the Foundation will miss Claire’s energy, enthusiasm and leadership, we are confident that there will be no difficulty in attracting great talent as we search for her replacement. Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation are vibrant, well-managed organizations vital to the success of the arts community, the city and all its residents. A Search Committee, approved by both boards yesterday evening, will be Co-chaired by Gaetane Verna (Director of the Power Plant and Past President of TAC) and Celia Smith (Director of Luminato Festival and Board member of TAC) and will include the following members: Jason Ryle (Past Executive Director, ImagineNative and TAC President), Dr. Sara Diamond (Past President & CEO, OCAD University and Incoming Chair, Toronto Arts Foundation), Michael Sinclair (General Manager Obsidian Theatre, and TAC Board member), Gary Crawford, Toronto City Councillor and TAC Board member. The position will be posted in the spring and both Boards look forward to welcoming the incoming Director and CEO by the end of the year.
Toronto Arts Council supports a federal Basic Income Guarantee TAC has joined the leaders of Canada’s largest municipal arts councils for the very first time to advocate on behalf of the artists and residents of Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal, Toronto and Winnipeg. See the opinion piece published in The Globe and Mail, on March 20, 2021, and in La Presse on March 25. PDF of the article here. On February 12, 2021, Toronto Arts Council submitted a letter to the 2021 Federal Pre-Budget Consultations TAC BUDGET 2021 On February 25, 2022, Toronto Arts Council submitted a letter to the 2022 Federal Pre-Budget Consultations, in which Guarantted Basic Income was included among other recommendations for arts recovery funding. TAC Budget 2022 The time for a federal Basic Income Guarantee is now Canada’s arts sector has been devastated by the pandemic. And, it is the individual creative artist who has paid the greatest price for this loss: hours worked in the arts, entertainment and recreation sector declined 36.6% in 2020 including 60.7% for those in the performing arts. Canada’s Employment Insurance program has not adapted to the realities of the gig economy or the self-employed and most freelance artists do not meet EI’s required criteria. Artists face income insecurity as a result of their dependence on precarious short-term contracts combined with their lack of access to benefits, paid sick leave, or employment insurance. Income precarity has always disproportionately affected vulnerable and marginalized communities including people with disabilities, LGBTQ2+, Black, Indigenous, people of colour, refugees and immigrants. The opportunity for a federal Basic Income Guarantee is now CERB and CRB have proven that it is possible to provide meaningful support to individuals facing income precarity, and the implementation of these programs has generated widespread public support for a permanent program to address basic income. Note: A Basic Income Guarantee is not the same as Universal Basic Income which is being widely dismissed as too expensive. With a Basic Income Guarantee, the amount of the benefit is increased or reduced in line with income, making it both more affordable and more politically feasible. Artists play a unique role in this country, and never has that been clearer than today. At the outset of the pandemic Canada’s artists responded to the needs of Canadians from coast to coast. They learned new technologies and harnessed their imaginations and talents to digital platforms and innovative outdoor performances. They reached out to seniors in care and front-line workers and they gave us company when anxiety threatened to overwhelm. Their art reminded us that better times will come again, and that joy can come in unexpected places. Our city and country are depending on artists and arts organizations to re-engage the public in the life of our communities when it is safe to do so. Our artists will be key to bringing back the excitement and economic vibrancy that will make Canadian centres international magnates for residents and visitors once again. helpful links Let’s talk Budget 2021 (federal budget information) Ontario Basic Income Network (including The Case For Basic Income and the Arts) A Public Letter from the Arts Community for a Basic Income Guarantee; #artists4basicincome Basic Income Canada Network (including Frequently Asked Questions) Coalition Canada Basic Income Comparison of UBI to a Basic Income Guarantee (prepared by Basic Income Canada Network) Letter to the Minister of Finance: Provincial Budget Consultations – Provincial Arts Services Organizations of Ontario