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The 2025 LBMX Musicians Mentorship Program  is an initiative designed to support emerging London-based Bands through paid performances, resume-building opportunities, and tailored music industry mentorship. Now in its third year, the program continues to spotlight local talent and support their development with real-world experiences and professional guidance. Participating Bands will receive: Paid live performances   to build meaningful professional experience and public visibility through diverse live music performance opportunities. Resume-building exposure  through a high-profile performance at ExtravaBandza 2025 , supporting Canadian rising star/headliner, Renforshort. Known for her immersive performances, Renforshort has headlined international tours and supported major artists like Yungblud  and Lauv . She’s played sold-out shows in global cities and performed at top festivals including Lollapalooza , Festival d’Été , and Riot Fest , sharing stages with stars like Miley Cyrus  and  Post Malone . Pre-show performance training , panel discussions , and a targeted professional development workshop . Paid Live Performances & Resume-Building Exposure: Saturday, May 31st – London Music Week Kickoff Performance Each Band will perform as part of the opening celebrations for London Music Week , one of the city’s premier music events. Between June and August – Performance at Dundas Place Vendors Market Each Band will perform once at Dunda Place Vendors Market , gaining exposure to new audiences in a public setting. This opportunity will help each Band develop and refine audience retention and engagement skills/strategies. Saturday, September 6th – ExtravaBandza 2025 The grand finale of the program, where all LBMX Musicians Mentorship Program Bands will perform at ExtravaBandza , as supporting acts for the headliner, Renforshort . Hosted in collaboration with Fanshawe College Orientation Week , this event offers major exposure in a high traffic festival-style environment. All performances will include full technical support: staging, sound technician(s), and audio equipment will be provided.     Professional Development Opportunities: Saturday, May 24th – Pre-Performance Training A mandatory training session for all Band members , focused on preparing for live shows, tightening performance quality, and building strong stage presence. Between June and August – Panel Discussions A curated series of industry panels featuring artists, music professionals, and community organizers, covering essential topics such as: Grants & Funding  – Navigating financial support for your music Booking & Touring  – Getting shows and planning your route Marketing & Promotion  – Building your audience and brand Music Law & Business  – Copyright, royalties, and agreements Financial Literacy  – Managing taxes and finances Collaboration & Community  – Working with organizations and building relationships Minimum one Band member is required   to attend. Late September – Beyond the Show: Your Next Step – Strategy Workshop   This focused session will explore how to maximize momentum after a show — from content creation and networking to securing future bookings and press. Minimum one Band member is required   to attend.     Timeline (May – December 2025) LBMX Musicians Mentorship Program 2025 Timeline and Requirements Description Timeline Attendance Requirement LBMX Musicians Mentorship Program Online Application Process Commences April 2025 N/A Assessment and Selection Process May 2025 N/A Pre- Performance Training May 24th, 2025 All Band members required Kickoff Performance – London Music Week May 31st, 2025 All Band members required General Music Industry – Panel Discussion June – August 2025 Minimum one Band member required Dundas Place Vendors Market – Performance June – August 2025 All Band members required ExtravaBandza 2025 - Performance September 6th, 2025 All Band members required Beyond the Show: Your Next Step – Workshop Late September, 2025 Minimum one Band member required   Payment (per Band) Description  Amount London Music Week Kickoff Performance    $1,000.00 Dundas Place Vendors Market Performance $1,000.00 ExtravaBandza Performance $1,000.00 Total $3,000.00 Program Eligibility For the LBMX Musicians Mentorship Program opportunity, a Band must meet the following eligibility criteria: All Band members must be 18 years of age or older. Band must have a minimum of 3  members. At least 2/3 of Band members must reside in London, Ontario or the surrounding First Nations communities—including the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, the Oneida Nation of the Thames, and the Munsee-Delaware Nation. Note: The Band’s main contact or lead applicant must be a resident of London or surrounding First Nations. The Band’s core/main activity must be based in London, Ontario, and the Band must be connected to London’s music community. A minimum of two years of professional experience as a Band, with a history of receiving compensation for work and opportunities within the music industry. Band must be considered emerging. LAC defines an emerging Band as a group of developing artists actively building their presence in the music industry through performances, recordings, and audience engagement. These Bands are starting to gain traction, building a following, establishing their musical identity and reputation, and demonstrating strong artistic potential. Must be committed for all dates included in the Timeline & Requirements . Selection Criteria   1.       Artistic Merit – 40% 2.       Program Alignment – 30% 3.       Passion and Commitment – 30%   Application Information You MUST read the full application information for this opportunity prior to filling out the online application.

Call Summary The London Arts Council invites artists and creators living in London and surrounding First Nations - the Chippewas of the Thames, the Oneida Nation of the Thames, and the Munsee-Delaware Nation - to submit high-resolution digital images of their original artwork for purchase and use in a public art project. Artwork images will be printed onto a vinyl wrap and attached to traffic light boxes at street light intersections around London. Application Requirements Digital images at 300 dpi. Aspect ratios 1:1 and 2:3 are best suited for this project. Please ensure your image contains no advertising. And please bear in mind that very busy or complex images can be visibly inaccessible to some members of the public. Please note: Applicants must review London Arts Council's Guidelines on the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Projects Payment Selected artists and creators will receive $400.00 per image used, as per the current CARFAC rate. The artwork provided must be original artwork and the sole intellectual property of the artist or creator, with no copyright infringements. Please refer to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office website link for clarification on copyright: https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/cipointernet-internetopic.nsf/eng/h_wr02281.html Eligibility Professional Artist, Creator, and Practitioners of Traditional Arts This project is open to all professional artists and creators (emerging and established) who are 18 years of age or older, and who reside in London Ontario or surrounding First Nations - the Chippewas of the Thames, the Oneida Nation of the Thames, and the Munsee-Delaware Nation. The London Arts Council defines a professional artist and creator as someone who has developed skills through training or practice, is recognized by artists and creators working within the same artistic tradition, has a history of public presentation, seeks payment for their work, and actively practices their work. Short breaks in artistic work history are permitted under this definition. Online Submission Artists/Creators/Practitioners of Traditional Arts wishing to be considered must complete all application requirements. Please complete all required fields of the online application form and submit the required application documents. Incomplete and/or late applications will not be accepted. Applications submitted through other means, such as fax, mail, and email will not be accepted. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure the application is submitted by the deadline of Friday, May 23, 2025, 4:00pm. For any questions regarding this project, please email: info@londonarts.ca For any Call to Artists updates please check the website at www.londonarts.ca

The Gallery In response to demand from local artists for exhibition space and to promote and celebrate our talented local artists, the London Arts Council and the City of London Culture Services have collaborated with RBC Place London to pilot The Gallery program at RBC Place London as part of our London Arts Live (LAL) program offerings. The purpose of The Gallery is to promote the work of artists and creators residing in London and surrounding First Nations to display original artworks for exhibition, with sales opportunities, on highly prominent and specially designated wall space within this municipally owned building. Birches Within the Forest Chris Allaway is a self-taught fabric and textile artist and has dedicated the last decade to honing her craft. Allaway lives and works in London. When she is not diligently working on numerous projects in her studio gleamed from over 150 bolts of fabric, she is immersing herself in nature. Allaway takes inspiration from the Canadian landscape. She can be found navigating the trails of the Georgia Bay area, Banff National Park, and British Columbia. Allaway has shown at local galleries in London, and he work can often be found at Stratford’s summer festival ‘Art in the Park.’ An Interview with Chris Allaway Birches on the Waterfront Threads of the Earth by Chris Allaway ( on exhibtion Jan – May 2025) Q : Tell us the story behind the work that makes up the Threads of the Earth  exhibition. How did it start? What was it inspired by? A : Threads of the Earth came about as a reflection of my love for the beauty in natural surroundings. Throughout my travels, I have always been intrigued by the captivating scenes of trees, water, and the intricate shapes and colors of rocks. Many of my journeys have been in Northern Ontario, a region where I can feel the same inspiration that the Group of Seven once found in the windswept branches of trees, the twisting, winding roots, and the vibrant hues of the rocks. These landscapes speak to me on a profound level, and they are woven into the essence of this collection. Through this work, I aim to capture the spirit of these natural wonders, translating the textures, colors, and shapes into a tangible form that echoes their beauty and power. Threads of the Earth is both a tribute to these landscapes and an invitation for others to see and feel the inspiration that nature offers. Q : What inspires you as an artist? A : What inspires me as an artist is interpreting what I see in such a way that others can feel as though they have stood in those same spaces and experienced the beauty I’ve encountered. My work is driven by the desire to translate the essence of a place into something that resonates emotionally with the viewer. Q : Walk us through the creative process behind this work, how do you go about capturing these fascinating images which operate as comments on photography, painting, craft and collage? A : My creative process begins with an image—whether real or imaginary—and bringing it to life using the many fabrics I’ve collected during my travels across the country. Each piece starts with a vision, but it’s the textures, patterns, and colors of the fabrics that truly shape the work as it evolves. A significant part of the process is selecting just the right fabrics. I spend countless hours in quilt shops, searching for materials that perfectly capture the essence of the image I have in mind. Sometimes, however, it’s the fabric itself that inspires me. A particular pattern, color, or texture might spark an idea and set me on a journey to create a piece that brings the fabric’s story to life. This interplay between the image in my mind and the tactile qualities of the fabric is at the heart of my creative process. Q : Why does creativity matter to you? A : Creativity matters deeply because it offers a way to express myself that I otherwise find, as an introvert, very hard to do with people, it allows me to process emotions, and find balance in life. It's wonderful that it keeps you grounded and fills you with joy—it's such a powerful tool for wellbeing and personal growth. Q : What is it like being a creative here in London? Are there gaps that currently exist when it comes to supporting the Arts? What kind of support is needed? A:  Being a creative in London offers opportunities, from galleries and exhibitions to a diverse community of artists. However, gaps often exist in areas like affordable studio spaces, consistent funding, and access to mentorship for emerging artists. There's also a need for more initiatives that bridge the gap between art communities and wider audiences. Q : What do you envision now for your future in the Arts here in London? A : I see a need for year-round platforms to showcase creativity. While outdoor art events are frequent in the summer, indoor events during other seasons could not only keep the momentum going but also provide more intimate spaces for connecting with art buyers and fellow artists. Being a part of several art groups allows for showing art and meeting buyers a few times during the year, I see a need for more of these events as London has a large collection of talented artists. Q : What made you most excited about putting yourself out there to work with the London Arts Council and RBC Place London for this exhibition? A : Being with London Arts Council and RBC Place London allows me to showcase my diverse form of creativity and helps open minds and elevate underrepresented art mediums. Q : We hope to see lots more of your artwork around the city. Where else can we find your artwork? A : My artwork can always be found at ArtWithPanache, Talbot Centre. In March as part of the St. Thomas Art Guild, I will be participating in an show at the St. Thomas Holiday Inn Express & Suites, March 21st to 23rd. I am with the London Artists Studio Tour, happening this April 25th, 26th, 27th. I will also be showing with the Lambeth Art Association at the Lambeth United Church May 1st to 3rd. I will also be at Stratford Art In The Park from May long weekend through to the end of September. View the Threads of the Earth exhibtion at RBC Place London on the following dates: Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00AM-2:00PM Thursday January 30, 2025 11:00AM-2:00PM Thursday February 13, 2025 11:00AM-2:00PM Thursday February 20, 2025 11:00AM-2:00PM Thursday February 27, 2025 11:00AM-7:00PM Monday March 3, 2025 10:00AM-4:00PM Tuesday March 4, 2025 9:00AM-2:00PM Thursday March 6, 2025 11:00AM-2:00PM Thursday March 13, 2025 11:00AM-2:00PM **enter via the main doors on York St.** The objectives of the Gallery program are: to create a beautiful, unique, and cultured atmosphere; provide compelling experiences for local, national, and international visitors; educate the public by presenting a series of diverse artworks created by local professional artists; and provide professional opportunities for local artists, including increased promotion, sales, and career enhancement. For more information about this project or inquiries regarding purchasing artworks, please contact the London Arts Council at info@londonarts.ca

The Gallery In response to demand from local artists for exhibition space and to promote and celebrate our talented local artists, the London Arts Council and the City of London Culture Services have collaborated with RBC Place London to pilot The Gallery program at RBC Place London as part of our London Arts Live (LAL) program offerings. The purpose of The Gallery is to promote the work of artists and creators residing in London and surrounding First Nations to display original artworks for exhibition, with sales opportunities, on highly prominent and specially designated wall space within this municipally owned building. A self-described foodie, coffee snob, and jazz enthusiast, Paul Lambert is a portrait and street photographer living in London, Ontario. Professionally, he specializes in personal and executive portraits, professional headshots, and business branding photography. His artistic passion is street photography. Lambert has a long history of creating visual art but didn’t pursue photography in a serious way until 2016. His work has been exhibited in several galleries and venues in Ontario, including the Westland Gallery and Museum London gift shop, both in London, and the CONTACT Photography Festival in Toronto. Currently, Lambert is working on a personal project interviewing and photographing local visual artists. The collection will be exhibited in the autumn of 2025 with a complementary book to be released sometime later. An Interview with Paul Lambert Emery Variety , 2023 The Silence Between the Notes by Paul Lambert ( on exhibtion September 2024 – December 2024) Q : Tell us the story behind The Silence Between the Notes  exhibition. How did it start? What was it inspired by? A : The photos in this exhibition are just several of a larger body of work I’ve been adding to over several years. I love street photography for several reasons; the unpredictability, the historical record—street photography has played a large role in documenting social evolution over the past several decades; the excitement of finding a story that unfolds spontaneously; the challenge of composing quickly and catching a fleeting moment before it’s gone. It’s an activity that takes a lot of time and often returns nothing for the efforts. But when it does, it’s extremely gratifying. Although I’ve exhibited other work in galleries and other venues, I’ve never had the opportunity to exhibit my street photography. I plan to self-publish a book. I think that’s the best way to present this kind of work and get it in front of people. When I was asked if I’d like to exhibit some of my street photography at RBC Place, I jumped at the opportunity. This is the first time I’ve seen a collection of it framed and curated. I’ve generally exhibited a collection of work thematically. In this case, the work was selected and I then had to think of a theme, or title, that tied it together. Most people who are interested in street photography are familiar wth Henri Cartier-Bresson’s reference to the decisive moment. For whatever reason, that notion of capturing an essential moment in time often reminded me of Miles Davis referring to the space between the notes being what’s important to music. As I pondered these two thoughts, I Googled “the space between the notes” and discovered it was Debussy who said, “Music is the space between the notes.” It was while pondering these ideas I thought of the title for the exhibition. It seemed to articulate how I feel when I look at a street photo I really like; the magic of a moment in time that silently expresses a story—captured within the symphony of city life. Q : What inspires you as an artist? A : I think all artists are inspired by their life experiences, both simple and profound. I’m inspired by many things. Looking at other artists’s work, particularly paintings, sculptures, and photographs. I’m inspired by music. I’m quite fond of jazz—especially improvisational—and early 20th century classical. Music has had a profound influence on me. I’m inspired by seeing the world through other people’s eyes who have lived a different kind of life than I have. I’m inspired by listening to children's’ view of the world. We’d all do well by slowing down and seeing the world the way children do, with a sense of wonder and excitement. I’m inspired by books I read and by people who have done rare and exceptional things. All this is to say, the world is a rich place. There’s a lot to take in. Some of it we take in consciously if we decide to be awake and observe what’s going on around us. But there is so much more we take in subconsciously and if we put ourselves in situations where we can absorb rich raw material for our subconscious mind, these things will eventually be expressed through our creativity. Q : Walk us through the creative process behind this work, how do you go about capturing images like this? A : I suppose it’s a well-worn cliché to draw an analogy to hunting and fishing with regard to street photography, but it’s a good one. Certainly for me at least. If you’re out on the street with a camera I suppose you’re always hunting. Sometimes, as with Emery Variety , the opportunity just jumps out at you. I happened into this variety store with nothing but my phone and when I saw the “collage” on the wall I had to capture it. It appealed to my sense of finding order within seeming chaos. Guilty , Ignore   My Douche Boyfriend , and Official Butter Tart Tester  are examples of going out to places or events where I assumed I would encounter interesting visual stories. In other words, finding situations where the hunting would be lucrative. I also like to fish. Finding a spot that provides an interesting backdrop or situation but needs someone to walk into it to make it interesting—to complete the story. Handmaid’s Tale and Skater  are good examples. I really liked the scenario of the poster for the Handmaid’s Tale TV series in a transit shelter on Front Street in Toronto. All I needed was the right person to walk into the frame. I was well rewarded for my hour-long wait. For Skater , I saw these young men doing what skate boarders do. I hung out and took about 100 frames. It wasn’t until reviewing them later in editing I noticed the little girl looking back at the skater. She makes the photo. Completes the story. Contemplation  was just luck of having a camera with me. I have no idea what the subject was doing but it makes an intriguing story. Q : Why does creativity matter to you? A : That’s a question that could lead to a lot of tangental thoughts. Creativity matters to me as a skill or gift that supports me in all aspects of my life. From problem-solving to spending my time in ways that bring me joy. Creativity is, for better or worse, what has brought civilization to where we are today. And for the most part, it’s pretty amazing. I like what Rick Rubin has said about creativity: The ability to look deeply is the root of creativity. To see past the ordinary and mundane and get to what might otherwise be invisible. Perhaps that’s his way of referring to the silence between the notes. Q : What gaps currently exist when it comes to supporting the Arts? What kind of support is needed? A:  I’m a relative new comer to the art scene so I’m not sure I’m qualified to answer that except perhaps as simply a member of society. In North America in particular, the arts are becoming less valued as illustrated by the decrease in funding, both for public art and our education system when at the same time, sports are highly regarded and supported. Many cities in Canada have lost their symphony orchestras for example. But not their hockey teams. The arts are important to society—to the development of civilization—by providing historical context and insight for millennia; by leading to healthy cultural discussion. Art makes the world more beautiful, interesting, and enriching. It helps people connect their rational being with their creative nature. I believe we could use more of that in North America. According to a 2000 report by the U.S. National Endowment for the Arts, Finland leads the per capita spend on the arts at $91, followed by Germany at $85. Canada isn’t too bad at $46 when you consider the U.K. is $26 and the U.S. is $6. How are we doing in London? I think there are a lot of people and organizations doing a great job considering the resources they have available to them. However, the budget allotted to the London Arts Council is, in my opinion, pathetic for a city our size. But it shows where the city’s priorities lie. Kitchener has a performing arts centre. We have a hockey arena. Any gaps we have are ultimately a result and direct reflection of what the general public thinks about the value of art in our culture. I don’t know how you move that in a more positive direction. I wonder what Finland and Germany are doing that we aren’t. Q : What do you envision now for your future in the Arts here in London? A : I dipped my toe into the art scene in London in 2018 with my first exhibition at the Westland Gallery. In 2022 I sold my business interests to my partners and have focused on my creative work full time since then. Earlier this year I embarked on a project documenting—interviewing and photographing—local visual artists with a goal to mount an exhibition of portraits and later self-publish a book of the portraits accompanied by a narrative from the conversations I’ve had with these people. It’s been an amazing experience. I feel extremely fortunate to have met the people I have, to have had profound conversations and insights into the lives of people who’s names far too few Londoners would even know. I hope to change that. This project has taken on a life of its own and has already led to some amazing opportunities and ideas. What do I envision for my future in the arts in London? I don’t know except to say I’ve begun an exciting journey and am looking forward to where it takes me. Q : What made you most excited about putting yourself out there to work with the London Arts Council and RBC Place London for this exhibition? A : I’ve never seen my street photography exhibited. That’s exciting. I suppose getting feedback about what others think of it is the most exciting. I appreciate the exposure and hope it’s a step toward me finally putting a monograph together. Or perhaps another exhibit somewhere. Q : We hope to see lots more of your artwork around the city. Where else can we find your artwork? A : I have work on display at the Museum London gift shop. I’ll be part of a group show at the Westland Gallery that opens in November. And, as I mentioned earlier, I’m looking forward to exhibiting my portraits of local artists in a local gallery sometime in the fall of 2025. View The Silence Between the Notes exhibtion at RBC Place London on the following dates: Thursday October 24, 2024 11:00AM-4:00PM Monday October 28, 2024 12:00PM-5:00PM Thursday October 31, 2024 11:30AM-2:00PM Wednesday November 13, 2024 8:00AM-4:00PM Thursday November 14, 2024 11:30AM-2:00PM Monday November 18, 2024 4:00PM-7:00PM Thursday November 21, 2024 11:00AM-3:00PM Wednesday December 4, 2024 10:00AM-2:00PM Thursday December 12, 2024 11:00AM-2:00PM **enter via the main doors on York St.** The objectives of the Gallery program are: to create a beautiful, unique, and cultured atmosphere; provide compelling experiences for local, national, and international visitors; educate the public by presenting a series of diverse artworks created by local professional artists; and provide professional opportunities for local artists, including increased promotion, sales, and career enhancement. For more information about this project or inquiries regarding purchasing artworks, please contact the London Arts Council at info@londonarts.ca

Presented by the London Arts Council and LBMX Place , Extravabandza  is an exciting showcase of London's thriving music scene, celebrating the city's rich band culture. Join us for a full day of live performances featuring the incredible talent of the LBMX Musicians Mentorship Program participants: Jai Vinyl , Juice Joint , Anddre & The Reflections , and The Jeremy Fox Revett Band . Special guests include Toronto-based band Bitter&Broke , with a headlining performance by the captivating Ari Hicks . But that's not all— Extravabandza  will also highlight local artisans, face painters, balloon artists, and other creative experiences, making it a true celebration of artistic expression! Don't miss this unforgettable event happening on Dundas Street, between Talbot and Ridout , on Saturday, September 21st, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM . Bring your friends and family for a day filled with music, art, and fun! Performance Schedule Event Duration:  12:00 PM - 9:00 PM Location: 100 Dundas St. Stage   Opening Ceremony : 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM   Band Performances:   Jai Vinyl 1:10 PM - 1:55 PM   Anddre & the Reflections 2:35 PM - 3:20 PM   Juice Joint 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM   The Jeremy Fox Band 5:25 PM - 6:10 PM   Bitter&Broke 6:50 PM - 7:35 PM   Ari Hicks 8:15 PM - 9:00 PM   Panel Discussion Schedule Event Duration:  12:30 PM - 5:25 PM Location:  Fanshawe Good Foundation Theatre (130 Dundas St.) Panel Discussions   Grant Writing and Funding 12:30 PM - 1:10 PM Click here   to register Artists and Organizations: Building Ethical Collaborations 1:55 PM - 2:35 PM Click here  to register The Art of Touring & Bookings 3:20 PM - 4:00 PM Click here  to register Marketing, Promotion & Social Media: Amplifying Your Art and Reach 4:45 PM - 5:25 PM Click here  to register  *This is a FREE, family friendly event* If you'd like to attend a panel discussion, please make sure to register through the EventBrite link below to reserve your spot. Seats are limited. Please make sure to arrive 10 minutes early, as discussions will begin promptly at the scheduled time. Grant Writing and Funding - 12:30pm - 1:10pm : Panelists : Lori Runciman - Director, Grants, London Community Foundation https://www.lcf.on.ca/lori-runciman Asante Deluy - Specialist, Arts Activations, London Arts Council / Musician https://www.londonarts.ca/post/meet-the-team-asante-deluy Justin Maki - Musician https://www.justinmakimusic.ca/ Moderator : Janet Antone - Administrator, Indigenous London Arts, London Arts Council / Beadwork Artist, Ms. Antone's Beadwork https://www.londonarts.ca/post/meet-the-team-janet-antone Join us for an insightful discussion focused on securing funding for artistic projects. This panel brings together a group of successful grant recipients and grant organizations who will share their programs, experiences and strategies for navigating the world of arts funding. From the intricacies of writing winning grant proposals to leveraging available resources, this session is designed to provide artists with practical tips to help secure funding for their work. Whether you’re new to grant writing or looking to refine your skills, this panel offers real-life examples of what works and how to make your application stand out. Attendees will leave with valuable insights and actionable advice on how to strengthen their grant proposals and unlock more opportunities for artistic growth. Click here to register Artists and Organizations: Building Ethical Collaborations - 1:55pm - 2:35pm: Panelists : Graham Henderson - CEO, London Chamber of Commerce https://www.londonchamber.com/ Mario Circelli - Founder & Chair, Forest City London Music Awards / Founder & Chair, London Music Hall of Fame https://fclma.ca/about-us/ Dan Brodbeck - Program Coordinator/ Professor, Music Industry Arts, Fanshawe College & Grammy nominated record producer/recording engineer https://www.danbrodbeck.com/ April Voth - Executive Director, London Symphonia https://www.londonsymphonia.ca/ Moderator : Eunju Yi - Executive Director, London Arts Council https://www.londonarts.ca/post/meet-the-team-eunju-yi-executive-director This panel is designed to guide Artists and Musicians through the process of building successful collaborations with organizations. Focusing on best practices, our panelists will discuss how artists can approach organizations, pitch projects, and navigate partnerships in a professional and ethical manner. Topics include understanding the goals of the organization, aligning your vision with theirs, and maintaining clear communication and transparency throughout the collaboration. Artists will gain valuable insights into fostering respectful and productive relationships, ensuring that their work and ideas are represented fairly while contributing meaningfully to the organization's mission. Click here to register The Art of Touring & Bookings - 3:20pm - 4:00pm : Panelists : Noelle Frances - Musician, The Pairs https://thepairsmusic.com/home Brent Jackson - Musician, Sunshine Makers / Founder, Lovetown Records https://www.lovetownrecords.com/ Brandon Eedy - Promoter / Booker, London Music Hall https://londonmusichall.com/ Jim McDonald - Musician / Promoter / Booker London Brewing Co-op https://www.londonbrewing.ca/ Moderator : Philip Gurrey - Administrator, Programs and Learning, London Arts Council https://www.londonarts.ca/post/meet-the-team-philip-gurrey-administrator-programs-and-learning Dive into the essentials of touring and securing more bookings with insights from seasoned artists and industry experts. This panel will cover strategies for planning successful tours, finding and negotiating gigs, and building relationships with venues and promoters. Click here to register Marketing, Promotion, and Social Media: Amplifying Your Art and Reach - 4:45pm - 5:25pm : Panelists : Janis Wallace - Professor, Marketing and Communications, Western University Alex Dolphin - Musician https://www.instagram.com/alexdolphinmusic/ Sam Freem - Musician https://www.instagram.com/freem222/ Moderator : Philip Gurrey - Administrator, Programs and Learning, London Arts Council https://www.londonarts.ca/post/meet-the-team-philip-gurrey-administrator-programs-and-learning In today’s digital age, effective marketing and promotion are key to building a successful career in the arts. This panel brings together marketing experts, and artists to discuss how to craft impactful promotional strategies that reach and engage audiences. Topics will include using social media to grow your following, creating content that stands out, and maximizing your marketing efforts with limited resources. Whether you’re looking to promote an album, tour, or brand, this panel will offer actionable advice on how to leverage digital platforms and traditional marketing techniques to amplify your art and connect with fans. Click here to register

Asante is a graduate of Fanshawe College’s Music Industry Arts Program and studied Marketing at Western University. Asante brings 5 years of professional experience in the Music Industry to the London Arts Council. Meet Asante Deluy Asante Deluy is a graduate of Fanshawe College’s Music Industry Arts Program and studied Marketing at Western University. Asante brings 5 years of professional experience in the Music Industry to the London Arts Council. Asante is excited to assist in curation of the arts in our city, with the goal of brightening up the city of London. Ask Me Anything - with Asante Deluy Who is someone you admire, and why? My mother is my role model. Growing up, it felt like she always had the best words of encouragement and was always my number one fan. She is a single mom who lived for her kids and worked 24/7 to provide for us. Nowadays, she is more than a mother to me, she is my best friend. What is your artistic background? I have been a Performing Artist for 4 years now. I have performed all around Ontario, in various cities such as: London, Guelph, Hamilton, Kitchener, and Toronto. Do you have any skills or talents that most people don't know about? I played soccer for 15 years, successfully competing in the highest league in Ontario, the OYSL. I fell out of love with the sport due to my love for making music. When I made my first single, “Reality,” I never turned back. How do you want people to remember you? My priority in life is to be remembered as a kind person who touches the hearts of those around me. Making those around me feel special and heard is important to my way of life.

Janet is a graduate of Fanshawe College’s Music Industry Arts Program and the owner of Ms. Antone's Beadwork. She brings years of experience in arts administration, stage management, community outreach, and Oneida language revitalization to the London Arts Council. Meet Janet Antone Janet Antone (She/Her) is a proud member of the Oneida Nation of the Thames. She has always strived to be an impactful community member, doing her best to create positive change within her community. Janet is a graduate of Fanshawe College’s Music Industry Arts program. She has worked for three years as an Arts Administrator at Native Earth Performing Arts, has stage managed the Summerworks programmed of Medicine Boy by Waawaate Fobister, and has worked at the Oneida Language and Cultural centre as the audio technician and administrative assistant, helping to preserve the Oneida Language through audio and visual mediums. Janet also started her beadwork journey 10 years ago and unofficially launched her beadwork business, Ms. Antone’s Beadwork, in 2018. Her beadwork has been all over the world (Africa, US, New Zealand, Scotland & Norway), as well as appearing in television series such as Letterkenny, Shoresy, and Rutherford Falls, for which she received a merit mention on Vogue.com. Ask Me Anything - with Janet Antone Who is someone you admire, and why? Someone I admire would be my mom, because she has shown me what perseverance looks like. She has never given up on trying to achieve her dreams and build a better life for her and her children. What would be your personal motto? Leave things better than when you found them. What do you think are the best skills that you bring to your job? I feel like my ability to connect with people on a personal level is my best skill. I can sit with people and they will open up to me about their life and I feel like that is because I am a very open person. How do you want people to remember you? I want people to remember me as someone who always tried her best to be honest and kind to others. I want people to think of me as honest but fair.

THE RESEARCH According to current census data, 18.5 % of London Ontario’s population is aged 65 and older. As indicated by a 2017 McMaster University research paper, like other Ontario cities, the percentage of seniors 65 and older in London will nearly double by 2060 ( https://www.mcmasteroptimalaging.org/full-article/es/providing-library-programming-designed-older-adults-benefit-older-adults-public-2858?hl=lifelo  ). This will require specialized community, social, health, and cultural services, along with built infrastructure. This indicates that as a community, we must embark on a strategic path towards the development, implementation, and refinement of specialized services and infrastructure for aging populations. With an aging population and shrinking financial resources, seniors’ programming and event collaborations are needed and encouraged in existing decentralized locations. Cross-sectoral partnerships are needed to develop more opportunities for older adults to create, perform, and enjoy arts and culture through social, intergenerational programming. Many seniors and older adults experience emotional challenges such as isolation, loneliness, and depression, as well as social and physical barriers and mobility issues that prevent them from fully participating in society and engaging in meaningful interactions with others. The Strengthening London’s Neighborhoods Strategy has already highlighted the preference for residents to identify with their local geographic area of the city. Research findings show direct relationships between artistic/cultural experiences and an individual’s mental health/wellbeing https://www.artscare.ca/resources/ . ABOUT THE PROJECT: GROWING TOGETHER THROUGH THE ARTS Growing Together Through the Arts addresses the need seniors have for emotional, intellectual, and creative stimulation, through intergenerational social engagement. The project provides affordable/free and accessible intergenerational creative workshops within public libraries across London, Ontario. These workshops will feature different artistic disciplines, such as visual arts, drama, dance, music, and digital art. Growing Together Through the Arts provides weekly professionally led virtual and in-person arts and cultural programming at Senior’s Centres, Senior Satellite Centres, and Family Centres. There is an emphasis on engaging newcomers, culturally diverse communities, and Indigenous creators to share their arts and cultural practices and activities with others reflecting London’s diverse population and commitment to reconciliation. Workshops provide varying degrees of physical activity allowing older adults to stay active. The workshops provide older adults connection within the London community by offering opportunities to participate and/or volunteer as workshop assistants and develop lasting intergenerational social connections. Workshops are designed specifically for seniors, but will also encourage families, children, youth/teenagers to attend thus creating an intergenerational learning/social environment. Youth/teenagers are encouraged to volunteer at the workshops to fulfill their volunteer hours. WORKSHOPS Click through the thumbnails on the right side of the poster to learn more about workshop offerings, locations, and dates. This project is a collaborative effort led by the London Arts Council in partnership with the City of London’s Age Friendly Network, thirteen (13) neighbourhood Senior’s Centres, Satellite Centres, and Family Centres. The project is supported by a senior’s community-based network, serving as advisors, presenters, volunteers, and participants.

Meet Philip Gurrey Philip Gurrey is a graduate of the Glasgow School of Art (BA(Hons) M.Litt.) and holds a Ph.D. in Art and Visual Culture from Western University. He has worked in the private and public art sectors over the years and as an artist has exhibited throughout the UK, in France, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Canada and the US. Philip has taught art in a number of different capacities and is passionate about the role art plays in the health and wellbeing of our society. Ask Me Anything - with Philip Gurrey Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?   I am a keen trumpet player and have been playing since the age of 9. I’ve played in Jazz big bands since the age of 12 performing from a young age in summer festivals in Italy, Holland, Austria and Belgium.   Name some favourite films/albums/work of arts/pieces of literature:   I remember being introduced to ‘The Outsider’ by Albert Camus when I was a teenager and that novel had, and still has, a fantastic aura about it. I keep returning to the work of Theodor Adorno but he can be a difficult read at the best of times! I love the music of Miles Davis, Christian Scott, John Coltrane, Brad Mehldau and Charlie Hunter to name a few. John Scofield’s album ‘Works For Me’ is up there as one of the greatest albums of all time for me.     What are you happiest doing, when you’re not working? Being guided by what my children want to do is always a joy. Seeing the world through their eyes is always enlightening. I love playing football (soccer) it’s a great way to meet people and keep fit.   What are some causes you care about? I’m really interested in the relationship between the human and the nonhuman and with that climate change, plastic pollution, air pollution and our everchanging relationship to the planet we inhabit.

💙Jeremy Jeresky, LAC's Curator, Public Programs and Learning, will be leaving us to pursue a career as an Arborist in Lindsay, Ontario at the end of August. Anyone who knows Jeremy, knows how passionate, dedicated, and hardworking he is! He always has a “can-do!” and “we’ll make it happen!” attitude and has shown a tireless dedication to promoting the arts in London, and serving the arts community. Throughout his seven years at LAC he has been responsible for facilitating the London Arts Live, Culture City X, AECE, Belong, and Creative Aging programs just to name a few. He has built many meaningful, supportive relationships with artists and community partners, some of which have become lifelong friends. As both a friend, and member of our LAC family, Jeremy has made our lives brighter, and the world a better place! We’re sad to see Jeremy go, but are proud of him for pursuing his dream of working in nature as an Arborist. We wish him the best of luck in his studies and his next adventure in Lindsay! We know you’ll do great Jeremy! 💙 If you’d like to come visit Jeremy at the LAC office to say goodbye before he leaves, he will be in office 9:00 – 5:00p.m., until Wednesday, August 21st.   - The LAC team Goodbye message from Jeremy: " It has been an epic pleasure working with the London Arts Council and serving London’s many diverse communities over the last 8 years.   During this time, I have enjoyed bringing all kinds of exciting, experimental, thought-provoking, educational, and fun artistic experiences to people of all ages and backgrounds across this great Forest City. And in doing so, I have equally enjoyed working with hundreds of local artists from a wide variety of disciplines.   As such, I leave London with two everlasting rewards; 1.      A resonance, deep in my heart, that my work with the LAC has positively and creatively impacted many peoples lives. 2.      An unstoppable drive and work ethic inspired by the hard working team of the LAC and the many local artists who strive to be their best and to make London the best place to live.   Sincerely, Jeremy Jeresky"

Position and Submission Process Administrator, Programs and Learning Hours: full time (35 hours/week) Term: permanent Compensation: $45,000 and LAC’s healthcare spending program Application Deadline: Monday, August 12, 2024, 4:00p.m. Anticipated Interview Timeline: August 12 – 16, 2024 Anticipated start date: Monday, August 26th, 2024 Note: Please submit your application through the online application form. No other method of application will be accepted. Only those candidates who are considered for the position will be contacted. General office hours are Monday to Friday 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; however, this position requires working hours outside of the general office hours and may require working additional hours for certain occasions.   Final candidates will be required to complete a Criminal Records Check from the London Police Services. Job Description The London Arts Council’s Administrator, Programs and Learning , is responsible for carrying out various programming and administrative tasks and reports directly to the Executive Director. The position is responsible for the development, execution, and evaluation of LAC’s arts programs in the areas of arts education, arts activation, health and well-being, and community development , and supports the organizational implementation of strategies for arts programs. The position calls for an energetic, dedicated, structured , and professional individual who can take initiative and further the London Arts Council’s mission and mandate through various arts programs .   Requirements and Qualifications LAC’s Administrator, Programs and Learning job opportunity is for an individual with deep understanding and appreciation for the arts, creativity, the arts sector, and the role of arts service organizations  (nonprofit, arms-length, and umbrella arts organizations). The individual should have a personal and professional connection to the arts , be actively engaged with the artistic community , be positive, adaptable , and flexible, understanding the fluid nature of programming environments , be a team player  working with high-functioning team members and supporting artists and artistic community members , have an organized and structured approach to developing, implementing, and evaluating programs , and be  eager to learn and grow as a professional arts administrator .   Given the historical context of where we are situated, this person should be dedicated to on-going learning and unlearning of Indigenous histories, culture , and the effects of colonialism on Indigenous peoples, including the legacy of the residential schools . The person should also be open-minded  and willing to expand their experience and knowledge to achieve a greater understanding of all equity-deserving communities . This person should have the willingness to step outside of their comfort zone  in the pursuit of relationship building, breaking down barriers , and taking meaningful actions . Please click the button below to view the full job description:

ABOUT THE MURAL PROJECT AT THE BYRON SKATEPARK In our continued mission to showcase local talent, beautify public spaces, engage Londoners through the arts, and promote health and well-being, local artist Devin Ryan, was commissioned to create a bright and bold mural at the Byron Skatepark within Springbank Park. ABOUT THE PUBLIC ART AND MONUMENT PROGRAM   The City of London’s Public Art and Monument Program facilitates the creation of public art in London, which bolsters civic pride, provides focal points for community celebration, creates meaningful employment for artists, and attracts tourism and investment. This mural was created by the artist through the City’s Public Art and Monument Program, managed by the City’s Culture Services team and administered by the London Arts Council. ABOUT THE MURAL: IMAGINATION ENDLESS Imagination Endless combines Ryan's love of graffiti art and cartoon doodling, which he's enjoyed doing since he was a kid. Devin combined these styles with black line work, incorporating a bright, colourful background to make it pop. Various quirky characters can be seen throughout the mural which extends the entire length of the skatepark. Ryan also wove a nature theme throughout by including leaves and owls (one of his favourite animals to paint). ABOUT THE ARTIST: DEVIN RYAN Devin Ryan was born and raised In London, Ontario. He has a close connection to the ocean through spending every summer in Nova Scotia with his family. Ever since he can remember, Devin has been doodling up drawings and cartoons. Just as a flower grows through the cracks in pavement, art always seems to sneak its way back into Devin's life no matter what path he takes. He likes to paint with spray paint and acrylic the most. Doing large scale doodles of whatever comes to his mind is one of his favourite “styles,” as it takes him away into a different world where time doesn’t exist. Q&A WITH THE ARTIST: Tell me a bit about yourself as an artist, and your history with making art? Well, I’ve pretty well been doing art since I was born and could hold a pencil in my hand. I started off doing cartoons – comic books really got me interested in art. In high school, I got into graffiti from my time skateboarding and seeing all of the graffiti at skateparks. From there I started to spray paint, which I learned takes a lot of muscle memory. It took me a while to learn all the can controls and the types of caps to use, and from there I integrated my cartoon style with the spray paint. As you can see, this mural is exactly that, my signature cartoon style done in spray paint. Awesome. Have you created any other murals? I designed the Mario Room at the the Ichabod Escape Room on Richmond St., and in Windsor I designed another escape room. At the Palasad here in London on Adelaide St., I painted the patio in the same cartoon/graffiti style. Also, I have some graffiti style work in the alleyway of Spaghetti Eddy’s. There’s a bunch of my work around London. When did you create your first public artwork? In 2016 I got involved with Art Fusion and they provided some opportunities to paint in public. I still remember the very first time was on Canada Day; I painted on saran wrap with lights shining behind it, which gave me the inspiration for all the bright colours I use. I’ve been building my skills up and doing new things since then. What was the inspiration behind this mural? My inspiration was my graffiti and cartoon background; I integrated my styles into one and incorporated the bright colours to make it pop. I also tried to incorporate a nature theme with the leaves throughout. And with you being a skateboarder, this project was a great fit for you. Yeah! It was like a full circle moment when I got to work where I have fun. It wasn’t even work; it was just fun. So what was the process like to bring your art to life? First, I spray painted all of the bright colours in the background and then created the black outlines. I tried to be as intricate as possible - there’s a lot of detail work, a lot of thin black lines. I love black line work art, that’s one of the things that got me into art as well. Yeah, it really makes the figures pop and stand out. Are there any recurring characters that you paint? The one with the two big eyes and the heart in the chest is my old math teacher from grade 9. She sticks with me through a lot of my art projects, she was a super cool teacher.  I also love to paint owls so you can see a lot of those in my murals. Springbank Park was actually the first place I saw an owl in real life, so they’re at home here. I also like to blend in a lot of leaves, mixing nature into the urban environment. Thanks for talking with me, Devin. This is a really fun and bright mural, and it fits into the environment well. I’m sure the other skateboarders who use the park are going to appreciate it and hopefully find some inspiration while working on their tricks. Thank you! Mural photos: