An open call out has been issued to local artists by the City of Maple Ridge as they get ready to take over operations of The ACT Arts Centre on Jan. 1.
The city is looking for artists, performers, and creatives, in a variety of fields, to build a new artist roster.
Muralists, painters, performers,dancers, comedians, entertainers, doodlers, sketch artists, musicians, vocalists, digital or multimedia creators, sculptors, installation artists, jewelry makers, fabric and textile artists, are all welcome to apply.
“The City is looking forward to welcoming back artists and performers of all kinds to The ACT Arts Centre as we move into this new chapter of building it as an inclusive, thriving hub that celebrates talent in all forms,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy.
He said there are many benefits for those who join the roster including: being part of a growing network of local creatives; getting early access to public art calls, community events, and ACT performances; helping to shape the cultural landscape of the city; and being able to celebrate and share their work with the community.
The roster, noted Ruimy, will be comprised of pre-qualified artists who can provide original artwork for a variety of opportunities, including – but not limited to – exhibitions, performances, public art projects, and community activities.
“We’re inviting artists and performers to join our roster, share their talent, and help shape a vibrant cultural scene that brings our community together and contributes to the next chapter of Maple Ridge’s creative journey,” added Ruimy.
Russ Brummer, manager of arts, culture and events with the city, said the invitation is open to those artists who live in Maple Ridge or are a member of the Katzie, Kwantlen, Golden Ears Metis, or urban Indigenous communities.
Meanwhile, Ruimy explained, when the city takes over operations from the Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Arts Council in January, their intention is to maintain all existing bookings.
The transition will open the door to new opportunities, added Ruimy, including expanding public art and artist-in-residence programs, increasing community engagement, and introducing fresh cultural performances.
City staff will be contacting clients directly to confirm scheduled exhibitions, performances and events, to ensure a smooth transition.
A team with extensive experience in facility operations, arts and culture programming, events and community engagement will be working hard behind the scenes to prepare for the transition to a city operated facility, said the mayor.
“Our focus is on ensuring the ACT continues to thrive as a welcoming and inclusive space that supports artists, audiences, and the entire community,” added Ruimy.
The city will be sharing updates with the community as planning continues through the fall.
Anyone with an existing booking, or those who have been impacted by a cancellation, are asked to email: TheACT@mapleridge.ca.
To join the artist roster go to: MapleRidge.ca/ArtistRoster.
The application deadline is Sunday, Nov. 30.
Anyone with questions are asked to email: TheACT@mapleridge.ca.