The Kingston Arts Council (KAC) is the region’s primary resource for arts information and support with a 50-year history of successful arts activism and communication for all art forms. The organization provides information, crucial City funding administration, and supports artistic growth and engagement for artists at all levels. The KAC’s vision is that every member of the community has the opportunity to experience the arts, as creator, viewer, participant and/or supporter. The KAC encourages and supports sustainability initiatives, and, promotes the arts as a vital cultural pillar in Kingston, a place where artists want to work and live. The KAC is devoted to serving the arts community in Kingston and surrounding region. The KAC staff, board and volunteers build productive relationships among artists, arts organizations, audiences, and government through the following means:Kingston Arts Funding
According to the Ontario Arts Council, every dollar invested in arts funding generates four dollars in the local economy. Through the City of Kingston Arts Fund (CKAF), KAC administers over $500,000 of arts funding to local arts organizations. The KAC administers the Nan Yeomans Grant for Artistic Development that helps promising young artists further their education and professional growth. The KAC also acts as an intermediary for Kingston artists and arts groups who wish to apply to local foundations to support their arts activities.
Arts Guild Communication
Our annual Arts Guide helps to build audiences and raise awareness of professional artists and organizations in the Kingston area. Artist profiles, our interactive website and our other social media tools are valuable information hubs keeping artists, patrons, and visitors to Kingston informed of a wide range of creative activity.
Kingston Arts Council – Presentations
KAC plays a lead role in the Skeleton Park Arts Festival, Juried Arts Salon, the Kingston Cultural Kaleidoscope, Building Community Through the Arts and other high quality local events. KAC offers year round workshops, internships and professional development opportunities. KAC facilitates and encourages collaboration between Kingston and surrounding area artists and arts organizations with other community groups.
KAC Advocacy
KAC regularly attends City of Kingston Council, Arts Recreation and Community Policies Committee, Cultural Services, and Arts Advisory Committee meetings on behalf of all
members. KAC is responsible for nominating arts representatives to the Arts Advisory Committee. KAC advocates for the arts at a local level as well as provincial and federal levels.
