The Brampton Arts Organization (BAO), previously the Arts, Culture & Creative Industry Development Agency (ACCIDA), is a unique organization incubating within the City of Brampton focused on growing, celebrating, advocating for and connecting the creative sector by offering a range of programs, services and resources. We are a key partner in delivering the City’s ambitious vision for the arts, culture and creative industries as articulated in the City’s strategic vision and Culture Master Plan.
Vision: A thriving, confident, and valued creative scene and cultural ecology is the heart of our prosperous mosaic city.
Mission: To incubate, advance, connect and advocate for Brampton’s arts, culture and creative industries.
Values: Passion and Ambition, Diversity and Inclusiveness, Service, Community and Collaboration, Excellence and Innovation, Optimism.
We are focused on providing programs and services in collaboration with inter and cross-sectoral partners in the areas of:
- Funding, finance and investment.
- Leadership, advocacy and innovation.
- Sector development and growth.
BAO is a member of the Alliance of Arts Councils of Ontario (AACO).
2022 highlights include:
- 605% increase in Brampton Arts Organization event and program attendance in 2022.
- More than 3,240 local artists participated in one of our 87 events, programs and workshops in 2022.
- 132 Brampton artists showcased through 10 calls for submission in 2022.
- Launched the Creative Space Catalogue: a public space inventory of more than 200 Brampton sites where arts and culture activities can take place.
- Launched the BAO Ambassador Program with Brampton representatives including: Director X, Rupi Kaur, Haviah Mighty, Sasha Leigh Henry and others across creative disciplines.
Read our full 
BAO-2022-annual-report-final.pdf.
Read our 
2021 Annual Report.
Announcements
From Sept. 22nd to Oct. 15th experience arts & culture in Brampton. Choose from a variety of activities hosted by local artists, galleries, arts orgs, the City of Brampton & BAO.
The Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) seeks local artists, musicians, writers, performers, arts workers, and community members to serve as peer assessors for our calls to artists and programming on an ongoing basis.
The Arts, Culture & Creative Industry Development Agency (ACCIDA) is now the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO).
Join us for what is certain to be an insightful discussion on the intricacies of creating and sustaining music collectives in the GTA from those that have done so.
Our panelists will share their expertise and insights into what it actually takes to build successful music collectives while navigating the unique challenges and opportunities in the GTA.
Moderators: Shade Waheed & Noyz
Panellists:
Alliston Davis - AFROWAVETO and R.I.S.E Edutainment
Jerome Ferguson - BEATCAVE
Joel Naga - filltheBLNK
REGISTER HERE
In this workshop, participants will learn how to get, and stay, organized as working artists. This includes how to keep finances/invoices organized, how to create basic spreadsheets and use tracking applications as well as how to create a workback schedule.
The more efficiently you can manage the business of your art, the more time and energy you'll have for the art itself. REGISTER HERE.
Join us on Tuesday, August 1st for a virtual information session abou the Brampton Artist in Residence Program from noon to 1:00 pm. Learn about the program and have all your questions answered. VIEW RECORDING HERE.
This workshop is for Black identifying women 19+ to learn basic songwriting structure from Brampton artist Nicole Chambers, and sing their creations together as group. REGISTER HERE.
We've all heard the saying, 'Your network is your net worth,' and that couldn't be more true.
In this workshop, we'll break down networking into actionable steps including how to reach out to people, tips on having a productive conversation, and how to maintain or grow the relationship going forward.
Local artist, Saphera Peters, will go over the do's and don'ts of networking and how to ensure you are making genuine connections that will benefit your career. REGISTER HERE.
Join us for the second Brampton Summer Artist Market on Saturday, July 15th from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We will be in the lobby of the Rose Theatre once again.
A wide variety of Brampton artists and arts orgs will be waiting to meet you and show off their one-of-a-kind works. You won't be disappointed, whether you are shopping for yourself or for gifts.
Not only will we have a DJ spinning beats but this year, we will have a concert featuring seven Brampton performers in addition to workshops and our ever popular button making station. DETAILS HERE.
There will be something for everyone to enjoy!
For the first time ever, BAO will be at the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair showcasing forty nine Brampton artists. We will be handing out postcards featuring the art work of all forty nine Brampton artists that have participated in the My Artist Story Project, the original 2021 PIXEL: Digital Art Exhibit, PIXEL: Black Artists Live Here and PIXEL: Summer of Love exhibits.
You can find us in Zone E at booth 279 next to the beer garden.
The Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (TOAF) is Canada’s leading outdoor and online art fair. Established in 1961 to connect Canadian artists directly to the public, TOAF showcases 400+ emerging and established visual artists, including painters, photographers, sculptors and artists working in ceramics, textiles, jewellery and more. The event brings together 150,000 art lovers and enthusiasts at this free event takes place every July - rain or shine - at Nathan Phillips Square in the heart of downtown Toronto. DETAILS HERE.
Join arts educator Aisling Dunne for a free guided public art walking tour. On this guided tour, we will focus on the City of Brampton's public art collection. Sampling a selection of public artworks from the collection, the tour will introduce participants to the artists and the historical and innovative techniques used in their artistic practice.
Please note this tour will take place outdoors where participants will be led around various locations in the Downtown Core of Brampton. Should it rain, the tour will go ahead as normal. Suitable weather attire is strongly advised.
Please meet in front of the Cenotaph memorial, opposite the Gage Park entrance (Main & Wellington) five minutes before the tour begins at 11:30 AM. This is a free drop-in tour, no registration is required.
Join us at the City of Brampton’s National Indigenous Day Celebration on June 22nd at 6:40 PM for an artist talk with creative design studio, Born in the North Ltd. Born in the North Ltd. will be discussing their commissioned art installation, the Big Drum.
The Big Drum Art Installation is a 10-foot wide drum which represents the heartbeat of Mother Earth and the nation. It is a symbol of gathering in celebration and pride.
Born in the North Ltd. is a creative studio owned and operated by twin brothers Chris and Greg Mitchell. Their work, created through their own unique lens, examines the relationships between humans and nature. DETAILS HERE.
Scissor Lift Training will be held on Saturday, June 17, 2023, from 10 AM to 2 PM. The is a free half day Scissor Lift Training course focused on self-propelled elevated work platforms (Scissor Lifts). The use of fall protection equipment is also reviewed.
In order to register, a $25.00 deposit must be paid. This deposit will be refunded during the week following completion of the course and certification.
There is a maximum size of 14 participants per class. REGISTER HERE.
Working at Heights Training will be held on Friday, June 16, 2023, from 9 AM to 5 PM. This is a free, full day course, at the end of which participants will receive Ministry of Labour-approved Working at Heights Certification, valid for three years.
In order to register, a $25.00 deposit must be paid. This deposit will be refunded during the week following completion of the course and certification.
There is a maximum size of 14 participants per class. REGISTER HERE.
The Velvet Rope, a lineup of emerging R&B singers, all women, all Black, all from Brampton, will shine brightly at the Drake Underground for this year’s This Is Brampton showcase at the NXNE music festival. Savannah Taylor, Keziaa, Tasha Mac and Durreyl aka Glxy promise a night of sultry, ethereal delights. Get your tickets now. DETAILS HERE.
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as worldwide sensation Amal, a 12-ft puppet of a 10-yr old Syrian refugee, journeys through Brampton in her search for hope and her home. Her visit, a part of the Luminato Festival festival, will enlighten and move you! DETAILS HERE.
Start Location at noon: Knightsbridge Kings Cross Apartments, 3 Knightsbridge Rd, Brampton, ON L6T 3X4
End Location: Bramalea Civic Centre, 150 Central Park Dr, Brampton, ON L6T 1B4
Join us Sunday, June 4th in Garden Square for Brampton Pride. This year, we are so excited to have a booth for all the festivities.
We can't wait for all the fabulous people, joyous exuberance, and activities like Drag Story Time with Mango Lassi, electrifying drag shows by Sanjina, Kween Mallika, and Anne Tique Doll, performances by Tara Lord, Naach For Fun and Madame Psychosis and co-headliners Vivek Shraya and Ryland James!
Returning are Hasheel hosting and DJ Lady Pista, an alum of our 2SLGBTQ+ Residency, spinning her unique fusion beats.
It’s gonna be a vibe and you don’t want to miss it. DETAILS HERE.
Join us and the Kollective's Kiran Rai and Baljit Singh. They will break down and share how to make a killer portfolio and, more importantly, how to share it successfully on social media.
If you are looking to build your modelling, acting, graphic design, photography, video and directing, art direction, copywriting, styling portfolio and more, then this session will help you build a portfolio that will get you noticed.
You will learn the tips and tricks to build an eye-catching portfolio and the opportunity to work on your elevator pitch, grow your network, and gain confidence at this in-person workshop.
By practicing these skills, you will become equipped to create your own career opportunities. REGISTER HERE.
Making a living as an artist means understanding how to build an audience, how to price art products, and the unique requirements for shipping art.
In this workshop, Sabbie Narwal will explore ways to display, promote and sell your work online, and compare some of the most popular platforms out there. REGISTER HERE.
Led by Jessica Thalmann, a photo-based artist, curator and educator, this program will cover several aspects of an artist's work that are not related to studio practice. The program consists of virtual seminar discussions, weekly assignments and gallery visits.
Participating artists will be introduced to the strategic aspects of art practices, such as understanding how to manage an artist’s studio practice, developing a compelling portfolio and online presence, various application processes, grant writing strategies and networking with curators, gallerists and other art practitioners.
Program Dates:
- May 18, May 25, June 1, & June 8 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, online
- June 10th Saturday Field Trip to Toronto galleries
- June 15th One-on-one feedback sessions
Program Curriculum:
- Intro to Canadian Art World & Practical Art Skills
- Grant Writing & Funding Art Career
- Marketing: Website/Social Media
- The Studio Visit
- Toronto Gallery Visit
- One-on-One Feedback Session
Finding and setting up your own creative space poses a variety of challenges. Our Senior Program Lead, Michael Vickers, will walk you through the process and share important advice and practical tips and tricks for finding and setting up studios in Brampton.
Joining Michael with be Kofi Hope and Zahra Ebrahim of Monumental, a business working in service of the public good. REGISTER HERE.
This year we have partnered with the FOLD Festival of Literary Diversity to bring you a truly unique culinary, literary and art event: Brampton artist Meegan Lim hosting Dine + Draw: Dumpling Edition.
Hear about Meegan’s role in illustrating the anthology "What We Talk About When We Talk About Dumplings" while you nom on delicious dumplings and learn how to create art inspired by delicious food as Meegan walks you through her "exploding recipe" process. It's an irresistible combination! REGISTER HERE.
Come learn what BAO's been up to in 2023 thus far and what we're planning for the next couple of months. Following our update there will be a Q&A, to hear your suggestions for programming that the Brampton creative community needs.
Following the Town Hall, please feel free to stick around, grab a few snacks and drinks, and mingle with your creative community members.
REGISTER HERE.Celebrate National Canadian Film Day with us and our special guests at our second Brampton Film Screening and Networking night.
Meet other Brampton film, video and media artists and enjoy eleven finished and in-progress works. Take part in the discussions about the work and, most importantly, meet potential collaborators. REGISTER HERE.
A workshop to help you, the working artist enhance your personal productivity by getting a better handle on how you use your time. Building on ideas from the best-selling books Better than Before by Gretchen Rubin, Getting Things Done by David Allen and Atomic Habits by James Clear, we’ll look at concepts, habits, and other tools that you can use to become the architect of your life.
Learn how to enhance your productivity by getting a better handle on how you use your time from arts producer extraordinaire Noora Rizvi, currently the Program Manager of Arts Across Canada and Arts Abroad at the Canada Council for the Arts. REGISTER HERE.
Learn how to apply an anti-oppression framework to your artistic practice and work.
Join us and educator & multi-disciplinary artist Rania El Mugammar for a hands-on workshop where we will unlearn some habits of oppression and start to build equity.
Participants will leave with access to a plethora of resources to continue their learning journey after the workshop.
Register here.Crafting a successful grant application is its own art form. Whether you've never applied for a grant, or you have, but without success, this in-person, hands-on workshop series is for you. It covers everything you need to know about applying for arts grants.
While each workshop module is standalone, participants are encouraged to attend the entire series. That's the only way you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the arts funding landscape, how to approach preparing your application, and what to keep in mind throughout the process.
SESSIONS:
- April 3, 2023 - Module 1: Finding the Right Program
- April 11, 2023 - Module 2: Grant Application as Narrative
- April 17, 2023 - Module 3: Grant Application as Business Plan
- April 24, 2023 - Module 4: Deep Dive into a Project Grant Application
- May 1, 2023 - Module 5: Mock Peer Assessment Jury
- May 8, 2023 - Module 6 (Virtual): One-on-One Granting Clinic (up to 12 appointments)
TIME: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
LOCATION: Brampton Library, Chinguacousy Branch, 150 Central Park Dr
REGISTER HERE.
This six-part intensive training series held with WorkInCulture will help participants develop and implement a strong marketing strategy for their arts organization or creative business.
The training program will include both in-person and virtual workshops. In-person sessions will be held at the Brampton Entrepreneur Centre.
You will receive tailored resources and worksheets at each session and have access to additional learning opportunities and resources during and post-program.
REGISTER HERE.
Dates and topics include:
April 1 - Introduction to Marketing Your Organization and Events
April 12 - Branding and Unique Value Proposition
April 26 - Buyer Personas and Customer Journeys
May 10 - Marketing Collateral
May 24 - Social Media and Advertising
June 3 - Putting it all Together & Networking Event
We are hosting a viewing party showcasing the twenty music videos to be featured on Garden Square’s big screen for PIXEL: Brampton Reverb this spring. Join us for an evening of music and community celebration with Brampton’s brightest rising stars at the Brampton Entrepreneur Centre. Register here.
Artist markets represent a unique opportunity to connect with your audience, meet your peers, and hopefully earn some money.
In this workshop, you will learn how to write an artist statement and bio, how to talk about your work, and what to pay attention to in your application to markets. You will learn from Brampton illustrator and arts facilitator Meegan Lim and comic book creator Ricky Lima, both of whom have extensive artist market experience to share.
Bring all your questions for the Q&A and Meegan and Ricky will answer them.
Register here.In this small interactive workshop for artists and arts workers, you will learn the fundamentals of what makes up a contract, including how to best vet your own contracts. Most importantly, you will gain the skills to draft your own agreements.
Former lawyer Jasmine Spei will review best practices and break down the barriers of traditional contractual language. Make sure you are getting the best out of any contract!
Register here.Whether you are planning a small gathering or a large multi-day event, learning about the key accessibility features of both in-person and virtual spaces will help all your attendees have the best experience possible.
Join us and author and disability rights advocate Amanda Leduc as we go over key accessibility concerns, from captioning to allotting adequate time for breaks and more.
After this workshop, you will discover that planning accessible events is not as hard as you might think!
Register here.Art is a job and 'exposure' won't pay your rent or put food in the fridge. That is why it is critical to know how much to charge for your work!
An artist fee is compensation for time-limited content and services provided by artists. Simple, right? Not quite.
Join us for this important workshop on artist fees with CARFAC. One of the critical functions of CARFAC is to establish standards and fee scales. Learn all that you need to know so you get paid fairly as a working artist with CARFAC. Recording will be provided to all registrants.
Register here.Through a Zoom-led guided tour, Tangled Art + Disability’s gallery staff will show you around the current exhibition, avere cura, and share information about the artists and their work.
avere cura emerged from the idea of curation as care – the word "curating" comes from the Latin root "to take care." avere cura uses accessibility to ask questions and make room for new ways of seeing and being, as well as making from a BIPOC, Queer and Trans, mentally ill, neurodivergent, or disabled stance.
Register here.This workshop invites mad, Deaf, and disabled artists to come together to discuss, debate, and develop these meanings. We will build from the ground up our understanding of a community of care and its role in our art and practice. Register here.
Join us and tax preparer Tova Epp from Artbooks as she covers what freelance artists should collect and track throughout the year, how to prepare for tax season, GST/HST, bookkeeping software and more.
Come prepared to learn and make sure you are ready for the year ahead!
Register here.BAO takes over MOCA Toronto again.
Join us for a one-of-a-kind immersive artistic experience: Rirkrit Tiravanija's work, "untitled 2013 (thomas demand’s here)" (2022), a site-specific, physical environment which mirrors a bar named Black Label, located in Kokura, Japan.
Kwasi Obeng-Adjei will be bringing his high energy, participatory dance performance to MOCA TO!
Come on down, have a drink, and explore all of MOCA Toronto’s exhibits for FREE.
Details here.Reclaiming the Arts in the Age of "Log Kya Kahenge," meaning "what will people say," is a three-part virtual workshop series facilitated by Soch Mental Health to support South Asian artists who face cultural stigma when pursuing a career in the arts. You can choose to attend all three or select individual sessions. It is recommended that you attend all three sessions in order to benefit the most.
Session 3 - My Life Is So Messed Up! Healing Through Creative Expression
* Dealing with personal trauma before using it for creative expression
* Sharing your trauma as a South Asian artist when mental health is considered taboo
* Tips on how to begin sharing your story safely
A four-part workshop series covering everything you need to know to apply for arts grants. While each workshop module is standalone, participants are encouraged to attend the entire series in order to get a full understanding of the arts funding landscape and how to approach preparing a grant application.
This workshop will provide you with a hands-on experience of the peer assessment process from the perspective of a jury member. In breakout groups, you will review real grant applications, score them according to program criteria, and discuss them with your peers. There’s lots to learn from being on the other side of the table. This is a unique opportunity to bring in a past grant application or one that you’re currently working on for review and feedback. Get invaluable customized advice from an expert in arts granting.
Register here.Join us for a one-of-a-kind guided backstage tour of the Rose Theatre
The Rose is a vital part of our city, it is a destination for local and world-renowned performers, providing opportunities for audiences from Brampton and beyond to experience a wide range of talent in an extraordinary setting. Architecturally and acoustically sublime, the venue boasts two performance venues for large shows and intimate experiences.
Join us Wednesday, November 30th for the final BAO Town Hall of 2022.
Come learn what we’ve been up to and what we're planning for 2023.
There will also be a Q&A, because we want to hear your suggestions for programming that the Brampton arts and culture community needs.
Following the Town Hall, please stick around, grab a few snacks and drinks, and mingle with your fellow artists and community members.
Register here.A four-part workshop series covering everything you need to know to apply for arts grants. While each workshop module is standalone, participants are encouraged to attend the entire series in order to get a full understanding of the arts funding landscape and how to approach preparing a grant application.
This workshop will look at look at your grant application as a business plan and examine its technical components. We will develop a budget and work plan according to program guidelines and discuss how to select your strongest artistic support materials and supplementary documentation. And finally, what to do if your grant application is successful (or not).
Register here.Unlock your potential as an artist and creative entrepreneur with this unique workshop!
Noora Rizvi, arts producer, specialist in audience development and strategy consultant, will lead this one-hour session. Using the concept of value chains -- the series of steps any business takes that results in the best-quality product for their customer -- Noora will help you examine your arts practice and/or creative business. With these new insights, you'll construct a value chain model that reflects your particular creations and audience.
By coming at your work from a new perspective, you'll not only understand your practice better, but come away equipped to get the maximum return for your hard work.
Register here.Reclaiming the Arts in the Age of "Log Kya Kahenge," meaning "what will people say," is a three-part virtual workshop series facilitated by Soch Mental Health to support South Asian artists who face cultural stigma when pursuing a career in the arts. You can choose to attend all three or select individual sessions. It is recommended that you attend all three sessions in order to benefit the most.
Session 2 - I'm so stressed! Coping as a South Asian Artist
* Coping with internal and external socio-cultural pressures
* Understanding stress and its impact on mental and physical well-being
* Tips on how to cope with internal and external pressures
A four-part workshop series covering everything you need to know to apply for arts grants. While each workshop module is standalone, participants are encouraged to attend the entire series in order to get a full understanding of the arts funding landscape and how to approach preparing a grant application.
This workshop will look at your grant application as a narrative and the importance of storytelling in communicating impact. You will learn how to write compelling but concise project descriptions, artistic statements, and responses to different types of application questions.
Register here.Not only will we be hosting a Brampton Winter Artist Market but it’s a part of this year’s Winter Lights Festival!
So make sure to join us on Saturday, November 19th from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Alderlea Mansion.
A wide variety of Brampton artists and arts orgs will be there to meet you and show off their one-of-a-kind works and creations. Whether you are shopping for yourself or for gifts, you won’t go away empty-handed!
DJ Roshanie will once again be spinning beats as you shop. Don’t forget to stop by to make some buttons at our popular button-making station. Fun for the whole family!
Details here.BAO takes over MOCA Toronto again.
Join us for a one-of-a-kind immersive artistic experience: Rirkrit Tiravanija's work, "untitled 2013 (thomas demand’s here)" (2022), a site-specific, physical environment which mirrors a bar named Black Label, located in Kokura, Japan.
Furthermore, Brampton's own Sabbie Narwal has been commissioned to illustrate Tiravanija's Negroni cocktail recipe. You can sip one on-site and take the recipe home.
Come on down, have a drink, and explore all of MOCA Toronto’s exhibits for FREE.
Details here.Join us for a tour of Sheridan College’s Screen Industries Research and Training Centre. Located at Pinewood Toronto Studios in the heart of Toronto’s film and television studio district, SIRT is a premier destination for training, collaboration and creation for the screen-based industry in Ontario and around the world. This state-of-the-art production studio and lab facility is a content creator’s dream come true.
Together with its partners, SIRT explores and evolves digital image capture and creative processes for film, television and gaming industries. Currently, the Centre is focusing on developing and enhancing technology in workflow, stereoscopic production, previsualization, virtual reality & 360 filming, digital cinema, virtual production, and remote and real-time collaboration.
You won’t want to miss touring this fully equipped 10,000 square foot sound stage!
Register here.A four-part workshop series covering everything you need to know to apply for arts grants. While each workshop module is standalone, participants are encouraged to attend the entire series in order to get a full understanding of the arts funding landscape and how to approach preparing a grant application.
This workshop will provide you with a deeper understanding of the arts granting landscape, including the various funding agencies, their programs, priorities, and processes. We’ll look at different types of grants, eligibility requirements and assessment criteria to help you determine “fit” and target the right program for your artistic practice or project/activity.
Register here.Join us for a free curator-led tour of the current exhibits at the Art Gallery of Toronto.
CURRENT EXHIBITIONS:
Denyse Thomasos: just beyond
A career retrospective of the late Trinidadian-Canadian painter Denyse Thomasos.
Ken Lum: Death and Furniture
A focused selection of works from Lum’s internationally celebrated 40-year practice.
Reclaiming the Arts in the Age of "Log Kya Kahenge," meaning "what will people say," is a three-part virtual workshop series facilitated by Soch Mental Health to support South Asian artists who face cultural stigma when pursuing a career in the arts. You can choose to attend all three or select individual sessions. It is recommended that you attend all three sessions in order to benefit the most.
Session 1 - You are not Pagal. Understanding South Asian mental health
* Foundations of mental health
* Understanding societal stigma and self-stigma
* Mental health concerns and how they are perceived in the South Asian community
* Community support / resources
Join us and arts writer and curator Alicia Puig for a one-hour workshop on the art and craft of writing artist statements and artist biographies. Alicia will address the differences between them and the most appropriate details to include in each.
She will also highlight best practices for writing about art in an engaging yet clear way. Most importantly, she'll flag some common mistakes and discuss how to avoid them in your own work.
Walk away with simple, yet effective strategies to write confidently and professionally about your art.
Register here.Not only is BAO at Art Toronto this year but we are hosting a FREE tour of Art Toronto as well.
Art Toronto is Canada’s premiere art fair, featuring 90+ galleries exhibiting the work of 150+ artists from across Canada, the US and abroad, including Night Gallery, Galerie Pici, Royale Projects, K Art, Daniel Faria Gallery, Fazakas Gallery, Pangée and more.
This is a great opportunity for Brampton artists to explore the larger art world and connect with fellow artists, gallerists and art lovers.
Register here.Join us at MOCA Toronto for Drag Karaoke with Kween Mallika as we take over Rirkrit Tiravanija’s work "untitled 2013 (thomas demand’s here)" 2022 as part of MOCA’s Free Friday Nights Bar Takeover series!
The installation by Rirkrit Tiravanija is a site-specific, physical environment which mirrors a bar named Black Label, located in Kokura, Japan. The work plays with themes of space and repetition.
Come on down, sing some karaoke and explore all the other exhibits at MOCA Toronto for FREE.
Info here.The Brampton Arts Organization we will be at Art Toronto from October 27 to 30, 2022.
Art Toronto is Canada’s premiere art fair, featuring 90+ galleries from across Canada, the US and abroad including Night Gallery, Galerie Pici, Royale Projects, K Art, Daniel Faria Gallery, Fazakas Gallery, Pangée and more. Art Toronto connects collectors, curators, galleries and artists from across the country and around the world. Art Toronto takes place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
Find out more here.Join us for an artist talk with Brampton-raised, Vancouver-based artist Russna Kaur. Russna Kaur: Maze of control and the slightest chaos is currently on view till January 9, 2023 on the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA) outdoor banner exhibit.
Learn how Kaur became a painter, what prompted her to pursue an MFA, what she learned along the way, and how she continues to challenge herself by asking what comes next. Kaur will speak to building a network after school, applying for opportunities, being an active participant in your local art community, making yourself vulnerable through your work, putting your work out into the world, and exhibiting your work.
If you are wondering where to take your art practice next, or are struggling to understand where to go, this is the workshop for you.
Register here.To celebrate the re-branding of the Arts, Culture and Creative Industry Development Agency (ACCIDA) into the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO), we’re throwing a party! That’s right: a public launch party, 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 21 at the spectacular Springdale Library.
It wouldn’t be a BAO party without exciting performances and thought-provoking experiences: Director X and R&B artist Zenesoul will lead a ‘meditate and create’ workshop alongside live painting by Abiola Idowu and Robyn Lightwalker, music from local artists Nicole Chambers, MixTapper, and DJ Lady Pista and dance by Kwasi Obeng.
Of course, there will also be food and goodies. Enjoy snacks that showcase Brampton’s diverse culinary scene and mingle with artists and arts and culture fans. Peruse books by local Brampton authors; even 3D print your own BAO logo key-chain. Get your portrait taken by Dusty Loops.
Preregistration is required to be entered into the draw for the Meditate and Create workshop due to limited capacity. Please register by 11:59PM on October 17th to be eligible to be entered into the draw.
In partnership with the Indigenous Curatorial Collective (ICCA) we are co-hosting a Bead Speed-Networking Event on October 15th at 4pm EST over zoom. The host will be the hilarious and absolutely deadly Anishinaabe Kwe Stephanie Pangowish. All attendees will have the chance to win several gift cards from BIPOC artists. Join us and showcase your beadwork collection and/or other BIPOC artists that you love supporting! There will be 2 ASL interpreters present to make the session accessible. Register here.
Join us for an information session on the City of Brampton's Advance Brampton Fund specifically for Brampton Arts Organizations. Whether you are an unincorporated not-for-profit, incorporated not-for-profit or charitable arts organization, this session will give you all the information you need to apply for ABF funding.
During this information session, the City's Grants Administration Officer, Amir Majid, will review all eligibility requirements, the different funding streams, and the application and evaluation process, as well as important deadlines and general funding provisions.
Make sure to get all your questions ready about the Advance Brampton Fund and join us on October 13th for this valuable interactive information session.
Register here.Join us at Springdale Library on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, for a willow lantern making workshop, suitable for all ages. The lanterns will be constructed from willow, tissue paper, and glue. We suggest wearing old clothes that can get dirty. All materials supplied, no experience required.
This free workshop is for all ages. However, please note that children need to be over five years of age to participate, and children under 14 years will need an adult present with them.
Register here.Join us for a virtual masterclass of Spotify’s artist tools and features led by Adrian Burke, Lead, Artist and Label Partnerships, Spotify Canada. Adrian has spent the past five years with Spotify's Artist and Label Partnerships team. Even if your music is already on Spotify, you can still benefit from meeting the Artist & Label Partnership team and learning how to best utilize the platform directly from Spotify. Register here.
Join us on Saturday, October 8th at either 9:30 am OR 11:00 am for the last Brampton Farmers’ Market of the season, where you can experience the Beyond the Plate storefront exhibition on Main Street. Not only will the exhibition's creator, Meegan Lim, walk you through all of it, but you will also get to try tasty treats from a selection of vendors at the Market -- for free! Register here and meet us at Ken Whillans Square on the 8th.
Join us at the South West Library on Thursday, October 6, 2022, for a willow lantern making workshop, suitable for all ages. The lanterns will be constructed from willow, tissue paper, and glue. We suggest wearing old clothes that can get dirty. All materials supplied, no experience required.
This free workshop is for all ages. However, please note that children need to be over five years of age to participate, and children under 14 years will need an adult present with them. Register here.
This workshop has been developed for artists who have applied to artist markets but have not been successful in being accepted. Brampton artist, illustrator and seasoned artist market veteran, Meegan Lim, will walk you through the application process and give you actionable tips and tricks to increase your chance of success. By invite only.
Join us and nature guide and founder of Toronto Aboriginal Eco Tours Alan Colley for a nature walk at Loafers Lake. Alan brings a hands-on approach to learning so be ready to absorb nature with all your senses as we explore this beautiful corner of Brampton. Together, we will come to a better understanding of it, ourselves, and our relationship with nature through Alan’s indigenous knowledge sharing.
If you would like to sketch as we walk and learn, bring your drawing materials (I.e., sketchbook/paper, pencil, pens, watercolours). If you don’t have any, we will have some supplies for participants to use. Meet us in front of the Loafer's Lake Recreation Centre at 10:00am.
Register here.Join us for a free professional development session for music curators with Canada’s Music Incubator. Learn about all the different types of shows and deals that are currently happening in the live music sector, how to determine artist value, as well as event marketing and execution. A light dinner will be provided during the networking session from 6:30 – 7 p.m. The workshop will begin at 7:00 p.m.
Join us for a behind the scenes tour of the Peel Art Gallery Museum and Archives followed by an artist talk with Brampton-raised artist Russna Kaur. Kaur will be discussing her new three-part site-specific artwork that she created for PAMA in collaboration with ACCIDA- Maze of control and the slightest chaos. This work is displayed on the exterior of PAMA’s Art Gallery building and can be viewed from September to January. RSVP here and meet us in the Art Gallery Lobby on September 17th at 12:30 PM.
We and Tangled Art + Disability are holding a think tank for Brampton-based artists, cultural practitioners, and arts-and-culture participants who identify as Mad, Deaf, disabled, blind or low vision, neurodiverse, with an intellectual disability and/or chronically ill or sick. We are specifically seeking 20 Brampton-based participants for the two hour think tank. All attendees will be paid an artist honorarium. Apply here.
The Professional Practices with Artists workshop series explores basic and vital creative professional skills that are integral to the survival of a creative practitioner. The artists will examine the strategic aspects of art practices, such as understanding how to manage an artist’s studio practice, developing a compelling portfolio and online presence, various application processes, grant writing strategies and networking with curators, gallerists and other art practitioners. This series is led by artist, curator and educator, Jessica Thalmann.
Soch Mental Health will lead a workshop for South Asian artists that will cover but is not limited to the following themes: coping with parental and societal pressures, the key for success, inner happiness, and how to cope with a lack of family support. This workshop will help you build self care skills and strategies. Register here.
We're putting on a 2SLGBTQ+ Showcase & Open Mic Night, hosted by Hasheel, a queer South Asian Hindustani Classical Musician at the Rose Theatre Studio. This will be an inclusive showcase and open mic space for drag experiments, radical poets, revolutionary music, and unapologetic queer expression. If you’d like to perform we’ll have a few sign up spots day of. Doors open at 6:30 PM and the performances start at 7 PM. FREE tickets here.
This workshop will explore the relationship between community safety and textiles as living archives that document experience. Soledad Fátima Muñoz will facilitate and live-translate the workshop presenter, Hector Maturana Bañados, who is based in Chile, via Zoom. Participants will be encouraged to explore their experiences of community safety and care through the arpillera form.
Hector will teach participants a method using acrylic yarn (donated by the Textile Museum) to create their own arpillera square. Each of the individually created arpillera will then be sewn together, resulting in a collective arpillera.
These workshops are presented in partnership with the Textile Museum of Canada. The Textile Museum of Canada hopes to show the completed collectives arpilleras in their community gallery space in the new year.
Register here.This workshop will explore the relationship between community safety and textiles as living archives that document experience. Soledad Fátima Muñoz will facilitate and live-translate the workshop presenter, Bélgica Castro Fuentes, who is based in Chile, via Zoom. Participants will be encouraged to explore their experiences of community safety and care through the arpillera form.
Bélgica will teach participants a method using textile scraps (donated by the Textile Museum) to create their own arpillera square. Each of the individually created arpillera will then be sewn together, resulting in a collective arpillera.
These workshops are presented in partnership with the Textile Museum of Canada. The Textile Museum of Canada hopes to show the completed collectives arpilleras in their community gallery space in the new year.
Register here.A Body As A Fault In The System, In A System Of Faults was inspired by the writings of Legacy Russell and Sarah Sharma, A body as a fault in the system, in a system of faults is a screening of video works by Peel-based artists that explore themes of fluid and amorphous identities, technology’s role in perpetuating harm, and imaginations of bodies beyond the binary. The screening is curated by Amanda Low with works by Steven Cottingham, Stephanie Deumer, Chun Hua Catherine Dong, Gladys Lou, and Seyi Olomodosi.
Join us for the first ever Brampton Summer Artist Market on Saturday July 16, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Rose Theatre Lobby. A wide variety of Brampton artists can't wait to meet you and show off their one of a kind works. You won't be disapointed, whether you are shopping for yourself or for gifts. Not in the market for art right now? Come on down anyway and meet local artists! Stop by on the way to or after the Farmers' Market or make a special trip in: we're all looking forward to making this day one to remember.
Come learn what ACCIDA has been up to, as well as our plans for the months ahead. Have suggestions for us? Programming you think the Brampton arts and culture community would benefit from? Make sure to register and join us on July 14th from 7:00 – 8:00 PM. We look forward to seeing and talking to all of you.
Join us and our Senior Program Lead, Michael Vickers, as he shares important advice and practical tips and tricks for finding and setting up a studio in Brampton. From sourcing space and negotiating commercial leases to what to keep an eye out for with insurance and agreements, Michael will share insights gleaned from over a decade of experience of founding studios for artists, creatives and collectives. Make sure to join us for this informative session whether you are looking for a studio right now or plan to do so in the future. Register here.
Join us for our first Brampton Film and Video Makers Networking social on the patio of the Rose Theatre from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Enjoy great weather and conversation as you meet and mix with others in the film and video community. We will provide the food and non-alcoholic beverages; all you need to do is come ready to mingle. There will also be special guests and exclusive swag! Register here.
Still using a selfie as your professional headshot? Get a FREE professional headshot courtesy of ACCIDA on July 5th at the Rose Theatre Lobby between 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM. We will not be accepting drop-ins so the only way to get your headshot is to register for your 5 minute time slot here.
Speed networking is back by popular demand. Come meet fellow artists, creatives, arts organizations, and arts workers. Register HERE.
Join us this Saturday, June 25, 2022, at the Brampton Farmers’ Market as we learn to paint with watercolours. We will be using the fresh local produce of the Farmers' Market as our inspiration. No experience or knowledge of watercolour painting is required. Local artist Meegan Lim will teach you how during this drop-in workshop. Register here.
Join us at the City of Brampton’s National Indigenous Day Celebration on June 22nd at 5pm for an artist talk with creative design studio, Born in the North Ltd. Born in the North Ltd. will be unveiling their new commissioned art installation, the Big Drum at 7:35 PM that day. But before the big reveal, we will be having an artist talk with them on-site at Ken Whillans Square at 5:00 PM.
A creative’s step-by-step, beginner’s guide to financial planning. Register HERE.
After a two year wait, This Is Brampton returns to the North by Northeast (NXNE) Music Festival this June 17, 2022. This year's showcase, This is Brampton: NEXT UP, will take place at the iconic Rivoli, located at 334 Queen Street West, Toronto and will feature the best and brightest of Brampton’s up-and-coming talent. This year’s showcase is curated by Brampton native and dynamic hip hop artist, TCspades. Performing with TCspades will be Ashlye, KEZIAA MUSIC, MixTapper, and Osé. Tickets here.
Make sure to join us this Saturday for the first Brampton Farmers’ Market of the season. Not only will there be great vendors but Abiola Idowu will be creating a one-of-a-kind chalk art activation throughout the day. Listen to music, purchase goods, and help make some art.
All in Good Time invites you into a multifaceted interactive free flowing experience of love, gratitude and release at Loafers Lake. Designed for small groups and/or individuals of all abilities, this nourishing activation uses audio and visual prompts to reconnect us, attune our hearts and awaken physical rhythms felt within the relationships between Bodies, Lands, Waters, and Others. Learn more at the link in our bio or at luminatofestival.com/time
Art In Transit: Luminato on the GO brings the delight and whimsy of street theatre to everyday train commuters. Make sure to catch the GO train on Friday, June 10th, so you don’t miss the boat. Learn more here luminatofestival.com/transit
Learn how to make your events accessible, whether they're in-person, virtual or a mixture of both.
From captioning through to giving adequate time for breaks, making your event accessible in a variety of ways is tremendously important--and not as hard as you might think!
Join author and disability rights advocate Amanda Leduc in a discussion and review of some of the key accessibility features of both in-person and virtual spaces. Register here.
Join us at Loafers Lake for a walking tour from 10 am to 12 pm with Toronto Aboriginal Eco Tours’ Nature Guide and Founder Alan Colley. Register HERE.
Join us Thursday, May 26, 2022 at the Brampton Entrepreneur Centre for our 2SLGBTQ+ Banner Painting night. We'll provide the pizza, snacks and paints but we need you and your fellow 2SLGBTQ+ Bramptonians to bring your creativity and vision of what it means to be, "Loud & Proud." The banner will be used at our 2SLGBTQ+ Showcase and Open Mic, Loud & Proud, on July 21st at the Rose Theatre’s Studio Two. RSVP to accida@brampton.ca
Do you want to incorporate NFTs as part of your artistic practice?
Join us for a virtual Power Hour as artist and Cryptoharlem member Jason Li talks through his experiences with NFTs — the good, the bad, and the gory.
He will also give an introduction to the concepts and technologies surrounding NFTs, contrasting its haloed promise with where the platforms are today. Register here.
Join us for a unique writing workshop for BIPOC writers and those curious about writing with Living Hyphen’s Founder Justine Abigail Yu. Register HERE.
Living Hyphen is a community that explores the experiences of hyphenated Canadians. Through art and writing, we uncover what it means to live in between cultures as individuals who call Canada home but with roots elsewhere.
Back by popular demand, we are holding a second session with CPA Kelly Ross who will be answering your pre-submitted tax questions. So, if you weren’t able to attend our first session or didn’t have your question answered, then make sure you register for this session.
Please note that due to time constraints, we will need to amalgamate similar questions together. This will help ensure as many questions as possible get answered.
Join us for a community check-in and learn what ACCIDA has been up to and plans for the coming months ahead.
Are you an emerging artist or designer and looking for opportunities to present your artwork?
This workshop led by Onsite Gallery, OCAD University Curator, Lisa Deanne Smith, will cover targeting your audience, different venue options (non-profit, commercial, artist-run-centres, public galleries, museums, festivals, public art, DIY, etc.), how to apply and/or approach galleries, curators and organizations as well as a brief overview of contracts/funding. Register here.
Celebrate National Canadian Film Day with us and local film and video makers in Brampton! Register HERE.
Learn the critical skills of documenting (photographing) and organizing your catalogue.
Artist and educator Jessica Thalmann will discuss the importance of clear, accurate and striking documentation of artwork for your website, portfolio, social media, grant applications, and more.
This workshop is ideal for artists and makers of all skill levels but you must have some experience with a digital or smartphone camera is required. Register here.
Speed networking is back by popular demand!
Whether you attended our first round of speed networking or you'll be joining us for the first time, this is a great opportunity to meet new people and potential collaborators.
In this fun, fast-paced event, we’ll facilitate conversations through a variety of zoom break-out rooms. You will get the chance to talk to other Brampton based artists, arts administrators, creatives, and arts organizations without any of the pressure you might associate with such experiences. Register here.
Are you interested in support to develop your arts practice?
Register for this FREE information session on multiple Ontario Arts Council (OAC) professional development grants for Peel Region artists.
Learn from OAC program staff and artists based in Peel Region who have received funding and/or been a peer assessor. There will be breakout rooms hosted by OAC staff and artists to give you an opportunity to ask questions and receive feedback.
Join us, Brampton Library and the CBC for My Brampton Day at the Springdale Branch Library.
11:30 a.m. Unveiling of the CBC-commissioned sculpture by Abiola Idowu for the Springdale Branch Library.
12:00 - 4:00 p.m. ACCIDA Interactive Art Event - Working with artist Abiola Idowu, make the library's windows your canvas. This event is full but you can add your name to the waitlist HERE.
5:30 - 6:30 p.m. An interactive Listening Session with CBC – Here's your chance to speak with local reporters on issues that concern you. Register HERE.
7:30 p.m. All Roads Lead to Brampton panel hosted by Nav Nanwa, featuring Kiran Rai, creator and podcaster; Ayo Akinola, TFC soccer phenom; Jael Richardson, author and broadcaster; and Chef Rick Matharu, entrepreneur and influencer. Register HERE.
Join us and the City of Brampton's Film and Television Office for the Brampton Film & Video Makers Focus Group on March 29th at noon. National Canadian Film Day is April 20th. Let's get together to plan how Brampton can celebrate the occasion.
Learn how to write clear, concise, and compelling artist statements and bios. Artist statements and bios are critical for success when applying for residencies, grants, and more.
In this hands on workshop, artist and educator Jessica Thalmann, will lead you through a presentation and two short in-class writing exercise which will guide you to reflect on your identity as an artist practitioner. Register here for this critical skills workshop.
Join us and the City of Brampton's Film and Television Office for the Brampton Film & Video Makers Focus Group on March 15th at noon. This dedicated focus group's goal is to help the City of Brampton better understand how it can support you and your practice.
Whether you have filed taxes as an artist before or this will be your first time, you won’t want to miss our interactive, hands-on workshop with accountant Kelly Ross.
Kelly will discuss and answer your questions on completing your taxes including: tax preparation and deductions, artistic expenses, deadlines, T4s and special considerations for creatives. This workshop will offer helpful reminders for those that have filed taxes as an artist before, or a general support for those doing so for the first time. Register here for this free workshop.
The QT Artist Cabaret celebrates the culmination of the 2SLGBTQ+ digital residency for musicians and performers. For five weeks, eight artists explored and experimented together. Their brand-new works, the fruits of that exploration, will premiere at the cabaret.
This show, like the residency, celebrates diverse approaches to performance and music. Together, we'll create space for conversations about art and creative practice as Two-Spirit, Trans, Non-Binary, Gender Nonconforming and Queer citizens of Brampton.
In this fun, fast-paced event, we’ll facilitate conversations through a variety of zoom break-out rooms. You will get the chance to talk to other Brampton based artists, arts administrators, creatives, and arts organizations without any of the pressure you might associate with such experiences. This is a great opportunity to grow your community, meet fellow Bramptonians and find future collaborators. Register here.
Join us and the City of Brampton's Film and Television Office for the Brampton Film & Video Makers Focus Group on February 15th at noon. This dedicated focus group's goal is to help the City of Brampton better understand how it can support you and your practice.
Learn all about the business of running a full-time art practice, including client relations, as muralist Stephanie Boutari shares insights and go-to tools.
You can view the workshop here.