Most artists spend their time and energy on their art (or at least they try to). Most arts administrators spend most of their time and energy administrating. It can be challenging to even glimpse the bigger picture.
With its inaugural
Cultural Leaders Lab, the Toronto Arts Council (TAC) wants artists and other cultural workers to think beyond their own efforts to see the impact of the arts on the city—and how that impact could be even greater.
“We want to develop a network of leaders who can form a bit of a think tank or can formulate ideas, new projects and solutions to existing problems in a way that’s collaborative and reflects a greater understanding of each other’s disciplines and what we can do together,” says Claire Hopkinson, TAC director and CEO.
As many as 15 fellows will be chosen to attend a week-long retreat next year at the Banff Centre. The program aims to invigorate and inspire the fellows, provide an opportunity for professional development, learning and networking with peers across disciplines. When the fellows get back to Toronto, TAC will host bimonthly events in the hopes they’ll build on what they learned during the retreat and the relationships they formed there. “We’re looking for people with a willingness to walk into this initiative knowing that the work they’re doing in the cultural scene contributes to the betterment of the entire city,” says Hopkinson.
The idea grew out of a series of consultations and informal conversations about cultural leadership in Toronto. Many of the city’s cultural pioneers, especially the baby boomers, came of age when it was much easier to break into the scene and move up the ranks. And they’re starting to retire and step back. “Now there aren’t the same opportunities for people to really assume responsibility at an earlier age,” says Hopkinson. “We really want to help develop the next generation of cultural leaders.”
Money from the
billboard tax, passed by city council in 2013 helped fund the Leadership Lab and the partnership with the Banff Centre.
The deadline for applications is Monday, November 10.
Writer: Paul Gallant
Source: Claire Hopkinson