Modern Fuel Artist-Run Centre is a non-profit organization facilitating the presentation, interpretation, and production of contemporary visual, time-based and interdisciplinary arts. Modern Fuel aims to meet the professional development needs of emerging and mid-career local, national and international artists, from diverse cultural communities, through exhibition, discussion, and mentorship opportunities. Modern Fuel supports innovation and experimentation, and is committed to the education of interested publics and the diversification of its audiences. As an artist-run centre, Modern Fuel is committed to the principle of paying artists for the exhibition or presentation of their work and thus adheres to the standards of compensation recommended by Canadian Artists’ Representation (CARFAC).A catalyst for cultural activity in Kingston, Modern Fuel Artist-Run Centre will this year be celebrating 35 years of presenting and interpreting contemporary art forms in Kingston to thousands of visitors each year. Incorporated as Kingston Artists’ Association Inc. (K.A.A.I.) on 12 October 1977, its aim was to operate as a focal organization for artists and the public, by providing a gallery for exhibition purposes, collecting and disseminating information about local artists, and serving as a forum for the exchange of information, ideas and critical discourse around alternative art forms. The K.A.A.I. was renamed Modern Fuel in 1995, and has augmented its objectives in recent years to maintain relevance on the national and international level. Modern Fuel continues to develop innovative ways to support alternative art production and diversity in the local community.
Modern Fuel has become an essential locus for artists and the public, providing continuous exhibitions in our two gallery spaces from local, national and international artists, performance events, art festivals, community newsletters, lecture series, film series, skills workshops and more. In 2002 we added a video resource centre entitled the New Media Workspace to our facilities, creating a resource and equipment rental centre for video and new media artists in Kingston. Our Main Gallery is programmed with a combination of local, national, and international artists. This gallery is complemented by our State of Flux Gallery, which is a space reserved for local and regional artists, creating a unique local opportunity for professional community exhibition and engagement.
