UNIQLO partners with Ottawa Art Gallery to support local arts community

The collaboration sees Uniqlo supporting OAG’s free admission and special access programs, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of art.

OTTAWA, CANADA – June 14, 2023 – The Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) is thrilled to announce a partnership with UNIQLO, a company that shares its vision of making art accessible to communities. UNIQLO’s ongoing dedication to working with OAG will help promote the Art For All message, fostering a deeper connection between individuals and local art and enhancing daily life through art appreciation.

UNIQLO is a global Japanese retailer opening its first Ottawa location in the CF Rideau Centre in June 2023. Spanning over 15,000 square feet, the new store will feature the brand’s unique guest experience with its entire lineup of LifeWear.

As the official admissions sponsor of the Ottawa Art Gallery, UNIQLO will enhance visitors’ experiences by supporting OAG’s free admission from June 1 to August 31, 2023, with the possibility of extension. This collaboration enables the OAG to continue its mission of making art open to all.

In addition, UNIQLO will sponsor OAG’s new Art + Yoga sessions which are kicking off in June. By intertwining the realms of art and wellness, UNIQLO and the OAG aim to create unique experiences that promote mindfulness and self-expression.

With their commitment to fostering a sense of belonging among local creatives and to display social responsibility within the communities their serve, UNIQLO will be hosting two initiatives, both with their staff as well as a local community group.  First Ottawa-based staff will participate in an OAG Community Art Workshop & Group Tour as a teambuilding event. In addition to this, UNIQLO will welcome at-risk youths from the Youth Services Bureau for a Community Art Workshop & Group Tour on June 14. This initiative aims to provide young people with a unique opportunity to explore their artistic talents and connect with Ottawa’s vibrant art community.

To celebrate the collaboration, UNIQLO has invited the Director and CEO of the Ottawa Art Gallery, Alexandra Badzak, to speak at their grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 16 in Ottawa, reinforcing the strong alliance between UNIQLO and the OAG, highlighting their shared vision of fostering artistic expression and cultural appreciation.

“Breaking down barriers and making art accessible is a key pillar of OAG’s mission. Therefore, it is gratifying (and a lot of fun!) to collaborate with a corporate partner like UNIQLO who cares about community, art, and culture. Together, we will open doors to fresh perspectives, diverse voices, and untapped creativity.”
-Alexandra Badzak, Director and CEO, Ottawa Art Gallery

About UNIQLO
UNIQLO is a global apparel retailer known for its commitment to high-quality and functional clothing that meets the needs of people worldwide. With a focus on simplicity, sustainability, and innovation, UNIQLO offers a wide range of clothing for men, women, and children, blending style and comfort seamlessly.

About the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) 
The Ottawa Art Gallery is situated on traditional Anishinābe Aki and is Ottawa’s municipal art gallery and cultural hub. Located in Ottawa’s downtown core, the expanded Gallery is a contemporary luminous cube designed by KPMB Architects and Régis Côté et associés.  

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For media enquiries, please contact:

Véronique Couillard, Officer, Media, Public and Francophone Relations
vcouillard@oaggao.ca, 613-233-8699 x 244
10 Daly Avenue, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6E2
613-233-8699 | info@oaggao.ca

OAG receives funding from the Canada Council for the Arts, the Ontario Arts Council, and the City of Ottawa.

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