The OAG is at the heart of our arts community. Our strategic plan commits us to being there for artists, and drawing on their work to tell stories, reflect our times, and advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. Specifically, funds raised through this year’s birthday push will foster production and mentorship supports for artists. These are the often essential but unseen supports that allow artists to mount shows and drive their practice in ways that truly move and push us.

I can’t imagine Don Kwan’s epic show without the Muskoka chairs that highlight the false inclusion and remoteness of his experience. Or Stanley Wany’s devastating recreation of a trans-Atlantic slave ship – physically creating a moment for the viewer that they cannot forget. It is these production costs that you will be supporting with this campaign.

So help the OAG build up the arts and artists. I am so grateful for the gift of your friendship and for your support for this critical work.

All my love,
Mark