Celebrating Ottawa’s Creative Spirit | A Message from Alexandra Badzak

As summer arrives in Ottawa, the city comes alive with energy and connection—and at the Ottawa Art Gallery, we are delighted to welcome so many visitors making OAG part of their summer experience. Whether gathering with friends and family, seeking inspiration, or discovering our exhibitions for the first time, the Gallery continues to be a vibrant place where creativity and community meet.

We are especially encouraged by the enthusiastic response to our current exhibitions. Faith Fyles: In Full Bloom, becoming| un |becoming: deepening relations, continue to spark meaningful conversations and connections among visitors of all ages, drawing audiences back again and again.

This spirit of connection extends into our summer programming. On June 7, we look forward to a special day of activities connected to Faith Fyles: In Full Bloom, including a screening of We Lend A Hand, the compelling documentary about Canada’s “Farmerettes,” whose contributions helped sustain the country during the Second World War. Programs like these reflect OAG’s commitment to bringing together art, storytelling, history, and community in meaningful ways.

This summer also marks an exciting moment for Ottawa as the city prepares to celebrate its 200th anniversary. OAG is proud to play a leadership role in two major legacy initiatives—the ACE District and the Arts Corridor—which launch in June and build toward the city-wide celebrations in September. Together, these initiatives will strengthen connections between artists, institutions, neighbourhoods, and public spaces while celebrating Ottawa as a vibrant creative capital. In shaping this work, we are guided by deep respect for the Anishinābe peoples whose enduring teachings of reciprocity, collaboration, and stewardship continue to inspire how we build relationships, foster community, and imagine a shared cultural future.

Finally, I want to extend my sincere thanks to the artists, supporters, sponsors, volunteers, and guests who made this year’s Give to Get Art Auction such an extraordinary success. Together, we raised over $162,000 in support of exhibitions, programming, and artists across our region. Your generosity helps ensure that OAG remains a vibrant and accessible cultural space for our community.

Wishing you a creative, restful, and art-filled summer.

Alexandra Badzak
Director and CEO