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- Meet Michael Czupryna, the Artist behind Oddkin
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. For the eighth exhibition, The Gallery featured artworks created by Michael Czupryna, a lens-based artist working in London, Ontario, creating images inspired by nature. A recent awakening has drawn his attention to the forest, in particular, trees and water. This perspective has been developed through lived health experiences, the pandemic, and learning that trees contribute directly to human well being, while also forming a seemingly intelligent ecosystem. “Growing up in London’s suburbs, nature was not a part of my life. I never went hiking or camping. My limited experience was the carefully arranged gardens and the strategically placed trees of the urban environment. During the lockdowns of the pandemic, curiosity led to a nature walk for the first time. The woods felt disorienting, like a kaleidoscope of limbs engulfing me, but later a sense of calm strangely emerged. I had never felt something like this before. I researched ‘forest bathing’ and discovered that trees emit phytoncides that reduce cortisol in humans and help our immune systems fight disease. It was a revelation to learn that trees actively assist me in fighting my ailments. Why would they do this? Writings by Donna Haraway, “Staying with the trouble: Making kin in the chthulucene” have influenced my perspective on these experiences - specifically her concept of seeing nature as our kin, inspiring me to name these portraits “Oddkin." My photographs are taken in environmentally significant areas here in London, Ontario.” - Michael Czupryna An Interview with Michael Czupryna Oddkin by Michael Czupryna (January - April, 2026) Q: You describe yourself as a lens-based artist. How long have you been working in this medium and how has it changed for you during that time? A: I discovered film photography in the 1980s at Fanshawe College and was immediately struck by how one could manipulate realistic images to express abstract ideas, such as putting two negatives together to create a new reality. There are many elements involved such as light and time that one can control. Film gave way to digital imaging, which I initially found less engaging because I preferred the tactile nature of working with film. Now, however, I can capture imagery with a digital camera that illustrates the concepts I wish to convey. Q: You mention that you grew up in London, Ontario’s suburbs. How has London shaped your creative output do you think? A: I grew up in London's east end, where the urban met the industrial landscape and the examples of real nature were the small patches of wild trees and bushes growing behind the fences of corporations that cautioned "no trespassing" to me. This experience created my view of a human-made world of concrete and asphalt with rigid edges and harsh geometry, in contrast to the distant wild nature. Q: Walk us through the creative process behind this work. How do you go about capturing images like this? A: Discovering nature walks during the pandemic and ruminating on health issues, I found myself drawn to the water below me, which mirrored the trees and sky, and also acted as a lens exposing the detritus below the water's surface. Blending these elements together, the images capture light and water movement to suggest a kind of "life" to the trees. Q: You mentioned the writings of Donna Haraway in your artist statement. How do these philosophical texts affect or translate into a visual practice for you? A: I believe that she is suggesting a way of being that unites humans and the environment in a way that is transformative for our shared ecology. Her concept of "oddkin" proposes new ways of relating across species, reframing the relationship between humans and more-than human ecologies through care, responsibility, and co-existence. Connecting humans with our odd kin. Q: Why does creativity matter to you? A: Creativity and Imagination are important because they take us to places that we wouldn't otherwise go. Imagination is the way we conceive of a new reality and creativity is the engine that makes that happen. Q: What gaps currently exist when it comes to supporting the Arts? What kind of support is needed? A: More funding and exhibition spaces for emerging artists in London. Q: What do you envision now for your future in the Arts here in London? A: I am very happy to be able to share my perspective on nature and photography in the Gallery at RBC, and hope to find other opportunities in the future. I see unlimited inspiration in the Forest City and will continue, with a renewed perspective, to record the wonders of our natural ecosystems. 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: The opportunity to share newfound knowledge and share the images that were created from that experience. Contact: Website: https://michaelczupryna.com Instagram: @michael.czupryna X: https://x.com/McArts1000 View Oddkin at RBC Place London on the following dates: January Jan. 10 (11:00am - 4:00pm) Jan. 11 (11:00am - 4:00pm) Jan. 15 (11:00am - 2:00pm) Jan. 22 (11:00am - 2:00pm) Jan. 26 (11:00am - 5:00pm) Jan. 27 (10:00am - 2:00pm) Jan. 29 (11:00am - 2:00pm) February Feb. 4 (5:30pm - 8:30pm) Feb. 5 (11:00am - 2:00pm) Feb. 6 (9:00am - 5:00pm) Feb. 7 (5:00pm - 10:00pm) Feb. 18 (9:00am - 5:00pm) Feb. 19 (9:00am - 8:00pm) Feb. 20 (9:00am - 2:00pm) Feb. 26 (11:00am - 9:00pm) Feb. 28 (5:00pm - 9:00pm) March Mar. 2 (10:00am - 4:00pm) Mar. 3 (9:00am - 4:00pm) Mar. 4 (9:00am - 2:00pm) Mar. 5 (11:00am - 2:00pm) Mar. 6 (8:00am - 10:00am) Mar. 12 (9:00am - 2:00pm) Mar. 13 (9:00am - 4:00pm) Mar. 19 (11:00am - 2:00pm) Mar. 26 (11:00am - 2:00pm) April Apr. 1 (9:00am - 3:00pm) Apr. 2 (10:00am - 3:00pm) Apr. 7 (9:00am - 5:00pm) Apr. 8 (8:00am - 4:00pm) Apr. 9 (10:00am - 3:00pm) Apr. 10 (10:00am - 6:00pm) Apr. 11 (10:00am - 6:00pm) Apr. 12 (10:00am - 4:00pm) Apr. 16 (10:00am - 3:00pm) Apr. 17 (8:00am - 8:00pm) Apr. 18 (8:00am - 8:00pm) Apr. 19 (8:00am - 4:00pm) Apr. 23 (3:00pm - 8:00pm) Apr. 24 (9:00am - 8:00pm) Apr. 30 (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
- LBMX Musicians Mentorship Program
Apply by Friday May 1, 2026 at 4:30pm The 2026 LBMX Musicians Mentorship Program is an immersive artist development initiative designed to support emerging bands in London, Ontario and surrounding First Nations (Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Oneida Nation of the Thames, and Munsee-Delaware Nation). The program equips rising musicians with the practical skills, professional assets, and industry knowledge needed to advance to the next stage of their careers. Through a combination of live performance opportunities, professional coaching, brand development, and industry-focused workshops, the program replicates the early-career experience of a signed artist and prepares participants for the realities of today’s music industry. Now in its fourth year, the LBMX Musicians Mentorship Program continues to strengthen London’s music ecosystem by helping emerging bands build professional experience, develop their artistic identity, and expand their industry networks.
- - CLOSED - Call for CAIP Assessors
We are looking for arts professionals and/or community members involved in the arts in London to serve as assessors in the evaluation of submissions to the Community Arts Investment Program (CAIP). Each assessor helps evaluate investment submissions, make decisions on who is awarded an investment, advise on priorities, and recommend dollar amounts for each investment. Call for Assessors has closed at this time.
- - CLOSED - Job Posting: Administrator, Operations and Communications
Position and Submission Process Administrator, Operations and Communications Hours: full-time (35 hours/week) Term: permanent Compensation: $40,000 - $45,000 (commensurate with experience) and LAC’s healthcare spending program Application Deadline: Friday, October 3, 2025, 4:00 PM Anticipated Interview Timeline: Monday, Sep 29 – Friday, Oct 10, 2025 Anticipated start date: Monday, October 20, 2025 Note: Please submit your application through the online application form by Friday, October 3rd, 4:00 PM . No other method of application will be accepted. Only those candidates who are considered for the position will be contacted. General work ho urs 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 Reporting to the Executive Director, the Administrator, Operations and Communications , has two main responsibilities to deliver under the direct guidance and supervision of the Executive Director. Firstly, to support day-to-day operations of the organization . Secondly, to support, develop, and execute LAC’s communications strategies . The Administrator must be well organized, proactive, strategic , and detail-oriented, able to work independently and decisively to meet multiple deadlines and important operational requirements . The position requires a multifaceted skill set with outstanding interpersonal oral and written communication , as well as public speaking and presentation abilities . The Administrator is a team player who openly collaborates both internally and externally with the ability to generate enthusiasm in key partners . Requirements and Qualifications LAC’s Administrator, Operations and Communications job opportunity is for an individual with 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 connection to the arts , be familiar with the artistic community , be positive, adaptable , and flexible, understanding the fluid nature of arts environments , be a team player working with high-functioning team members and supporting the artistic community , have an organized and structured approach to their work , 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 . Please click the button below to view the full job description:
- - CLOSED - Call to Visual Artists: Traffic Signal Wrap Project
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. Please check back for future calls in 2026. For any questions regarding this project, please email: info@londonarts.ca
- March Updates
We are excited to share what's on this month including a new opportunity for visual artists, "Artists in Practice Workshop Series," and a new resource for our arts community, "London Arts & Community: Funding Programs and Support Available in London.” And in case you missed our social post introducing the team through photos of our younger selves (which are pretty cute), you can find those posts on Facebook and Instagram . Thank you to our operational partners for your ongoing support. Your funding and partnership provide crucial support for LAC in maintaining and growing capacity for ongoing development, implementation, and delivery of professional artistic programs and services for our community and the local arts sector. We extend our gratitude to our strategic programming partners whose generosity helps us support the local arts community and artists with meaningful programs and opportunities. COMMUNITY ART INSTALLATION PROJECT Michael Czupryna is a lens-based artist working in London, Ontario, creating images inspired by nature. His exhibition, Oddkin, is on at RBC Gallery from January – May, 2026. All exhibit dates/times are available through the link below. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY FOR ARTISTS NOW OPEN – Artists in Practice Workshop Series Apply by April 7, 2026 at 4:30pm Are you an emerging or mid-career visual artist based in the London or surrounding First Nations communities, including Oneida Nation of the Thames, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, and Munsee Delaware Nation? If yes, this could be the perfect opportunity for you! If you know of someone who would be interested, please help us spread the word! This program is funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s (OTF) Seed Grant and is in partnership with Fanshawe College . The London Arts Council would like to thank OTF and Fanshawe College for their support. ARTS ACTIVATIONS With performances added to the calendar on an ongoing basis, check out who's performing in our community and support local talent. OPPORTUNITIES CAIP for Individuals & Collectives Deadline: Friday, March 27 at 4:30pm 2026 CAIP funding applications for Individual Artists and Collectives are closing soon. The City of London’s Community Arts Investment Program is administered by the London Arts Council through a Purchase of Service Agreement with the City of London. RESOURCES The “London Arts & Community: Funding Programs and Support Available in London” resource page is now available.The webpage brings together key information shared during the Information Session - London Arts & Community, hosted by the London Arts Council in partnership with the London Community Foundation and the City of London ’s Neighbourhood & Community Wide Services on March 4, 2026.The session was designed to help artists, artist collectives, and community groups better understand how to access and combine funding, resources, and supports for arts and community based projects in London. CONNECT WITH US Never miss a beat by following along on social! Click on the icons below:
- - CLOSED - Artists in Practice Workshop Series
Apply by April 7, 2026 at 4:30pm Are you an emerging or mid-career visual artist based in the London or surrounding First Nations communities, including Oneida Nation of the Thames, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, and Munsee Delaware Nation? If yes, this could be the perfect opportunity for you! Funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) Seed Grant, and in partnership with Fanshawe College, the program responds directly to feedback from local artists seeking financially accessible, culturally relevant opportunities to strengthen their artistic and professional practices. Find out more about this exciting new opportunity and apply through the link below:
- February Updates
While the cold weather continues to pervade this month, the arts community continues to warm our hearts! ❤️ As February is Black History Month , we have been sharing events taking place this month to celebrate, learn, connect, and engage as we honour the legacy of Black artists and Black artistic communities. We would like to express our year-round commitment to celebrating Black history and artistry. The 2026 theme for Black History Month in Canada is: “ 30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries ” which celebrates three decades of Black History Month in Canada and recognizes the enduring legacy of Black Canadians, whose leadership, creativity, innovation and resilience have shaped our past, continue to influence our present, and will inspire future generations. Thank you to our operational partners for your ongoing support. Your funding and partnership provide crucial support for LAC in maintaining and growing capacity for ongoing development, implementation, and delivery of professional artistic programs and services for our community and the local arts sector. We extend our gratitude to our strategic programming partners whose generosity helps us support the local arts community and artists with meaningful programs and opportunities. PUBLIC ART PROJECTS Michael Czupryna is a lens-based artist working in London, Ontario, creating images inspired by nature. Czupryna on the creative process: "Discovering nature walks during the pandemic and ruminating on health issues, I found myself drawn to the water below me, which mirrored the trees and sky, and also acted as a lens exposing the detritus below the water's surface. Blending these elements together, the images capture light and water movement to suggest a kind of "life" to the trees." The exhibit at RBC Place Gallery runs January – May, 2026. PROGRAMS AND LEARNING Upcoming Program – Artists in Practice Workshop Series Stay tuned for more details on the exciting Artists in Practice Workshop Series — a targeted initiative designed to support emerging and mid-career visual artists in London and surrounding First Nations communities, including Oneida Nation of the Thames, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, and Munsee Delaware Nation. This program is funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s (OTF) Seed Grant . The London Arts Council would like to thank OTF for their support. ARTS ACTIVATIONS With performances added to the calendar on an ongoing basis, check out who's performing in our community and support local talent. OPPORTUNITIES CAIP for Individuals & Collectives Applications for 2026 CAIP funding are now open for Individual Artists and Collectives. Applicants can book a consultation with an LAC team member by contacting investment@londonarts.ca The City of London’s Community Arts Investment Program is administered by the London Arts Council through a Purchase of Service Agreement with the City of London. Deadline: Friday, March 27 at 4:30pm CONNECT WITH US If we are connected on Facebook or Instagram you may have noticed a couple videos which have launched a "Get to Know Your London Arts Council" series. This is our way of helping address the many questions we have received over the years and highlight our wonderful team members in the process! Want to follow along? Click on the buttons below.
- January Updates
2026 Mayor's New Year's Honour List recipients (City of London) MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Happy New Year! As we begin 2026, I am deeply grateful to our staff and board for their dedication over the past year. Their efforts have positioned us for continued success. Together, we will build on this momentum and seize new opportunities to strengthen London’s arts sector. I am optimistic about the programs, initiatives, and strategic goals ahead. This year, we will build on our foundations by launching new partnerships and initiatives that create lasting impact. As we begin a new year, I want to thank our donors, sponsors, funders, and key partners for their continued belief in the London Arts Council’s mission and their generous support. Special thanks to the City of London (Neighbourhood and Community Wide Services: Culture Services and Dundas Place), Canada Life, Ontario Arts Council, London Community Foundation, Paul Seed Fund, LBMX, Ontario Trillium Foundation, Government of Ontario, Government of Canada, Westminster College Foundation, Covent Garden Market, Thames Valley District School Board, Downtown London, and Fanshawe College. Your partnership and support make a meaningful difference in our community every day. I am also grateful to the artists, creators, and arts organizations who continue to inspire and motivate our community through their work. Their creativity nurtures, enlightens, and connects us all. It is an honour to support their artistic journeys and witness their growth. The London Arts Council will continue to uphold the universal values of humanity and creativity in our operations and services. We believe creativity advances humanity by supporting diverse artistic expression and participation, which are fundamental human rights as stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. On behalf of the London Arts Council, I sincerely thank you for your ongoing support of the local arts sector. I wish you a new year filled with meaningful growth and inspiring connections. Warm regards, Eunju Yi Executive Director Thank you to our operational partners for your ongoing support. Your funding and partnership provide crucial support for LAC in maintaining and growing capacity for ongoing development, implementation, and delivery of professional artistic programs and services for our community and the local arts sector. We extend our gratitude to our strategic programming partners whose generosity helps us support the local arts community and artists with meaningful programs and opportunities. ANNOUNCEMENT We are thrilled to be the recipients of an Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) Seed Grant and would like to express our gratitude to the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Government of Ontario. The OTF Seed Grant will go towards our soon-to-be-launched Artists in Practice Workshop Series , a targeted initiative designed to support emerging and mid-career visual artists in London and surrounding First Nations communities, including Oneida Nation of the Thames, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, and Munsee Delaware Nation. The workshop series was developed in response to direct feedback from local artists, and the program strengthens pathways to specialized, culturally relevant professional development opportunities. Participating artists will be equipped with the practical tools and knowledge needed to build sustainable careers in the arts today. PUBLIC ART PROJECTS Michael Czupryna is a lens-based artist working in London, Ontario, creating images inspired by nature. A recent awakening has drawn his attention to the forest, in particular, trees and water. This perspective has been developed through lived health experiences, the pandemic, and learning that trees contribute directly to human well being, while also forming a seemingly intelligent ecosystem. The exhibit at RBC Place Gallery runs January – May, 2026. PROGRAMS AND LEARNING AECE (Arts Education Classroom Experience) Our team is currently planning AECE programming which will be delivered in March/April. The Arts Education Classroom Experience program gives London-based teachers and professional artists the opportunity to collaboratively develop and co-deliver arts projects in elementary schools in the London region. NEW Upcoming Program – Artists in Practice Workshop Series Artists in Practice Workshop Series is a targeted initiative designed to support emerging and mid-career visual artists in London and surrounding First Nations communities, including Oneida Nation of the Thames, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, and Munsee Delaware Nation. This program is funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s (OTF) Seed Grant . The London Arts Council would like to thank OTF for their continued program support. Stay tuned for more details coming soon. Bob's Yer Funkle Band performing at Holly Jolly Market on Dec. 13, 2025 ARTS ACTIVATIONS 2026 is here and with it brings more live music to enjoy! Find out who's performing in our community and support local talent. OPPORTUNITIES CAIP for Arts Organizations Applications for 2026 CAIP funding are now open for Arts Organizations applying to the Development Acceleration Stream (DAS) and Annual Operating Stream (AOS). Applicants can book a consultation with an LAC team member by contacting investment@londonarts.ca The City of London’s Community Arts Investment Program is administered by the London Arts Council through a Purchase of Service Agreement with the City of London. Deadline: Friday, February 20 at 4:30pm Coming Soon – CAIP for Individuals & Collectives Applications for 2026 CAIP funding for Individuals and Collectives will be open on February 20. Applicants can book a consultation with an LAC team member by contacting investment@londonarts.ca The City of London’s Community Arts Investment Program is administered by the London Arts Council through a Purchase of Service Agreement with the City of London. SPOTLIGHT (l-r) Brenda Zadorsky, Mayor Josh Morgan (City of London) Congratulations, Brenda Zadorsky! 🎉 As one of the recommending community organizations through the public assessment process for the Mayor’s New Year’s Honour List we are thrilled for Brenda Zadorsky, the recipient of the 2026 Arts Category, which recognizes contributions to fostering and/or the production of human creativity. group photo taken at the Ontario Arts Council community recognition series event in London on Dec. 13, 2025 (JReel Visuals) Celebrating arts in Ontario! Closing out 2025, we had the chance to celebrate and connect through the Ontario Arts Council community recognition series event! A warm congratulations to all OAC grant recipients and many thanks to everyone who made this event possible.
- December Updates
In the spirit of the season we are spreading cheer and giving thanks! Thank you to our operational partners for your ongoing support. Your funding and partnership provide crucial support for LAC in maintaining and growing capacity for ongoing development, implementation, and delivery of professional artistic programs and services for our community and the local arts sector. We extend our gratitude to our strategic programming partners whose generosity helps us support the local arts community and artists with meaningful programs and opportunities. PUBLIC ART PROJECTS Artist Olukayode (Kay) Ojo , a Nigerian-born Canadian artist whose work blends contemporary and traditional African influences into a bold, abstract expressionist style exhibits work at RBC Place Gallery, London. His paintings have been exhibited in prestigious venues, including the 2022 Art à la Carte exhibition at the Legislative Building in Toronto. His works are also held in the collections of Museum London and The Art Emporium in Port Stanley. He has painted portraits of notable figures, including former Nigerian President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. Don't miss your chance to experience this exhibit in person! The exhibit at RBC Place Gallery runs August 26 – December 20. PROGRAMS AND LEARNING Expanded Belong Youth Art Workshops at Crouch, SLNRC, GCCRC, LUSO and NWLNRC. Programs are running from September 12 to December 20 at five different Community Centres across the city. ARTS ACTIVATIONS Mark your calendars! This year's Holly Jolly Market runs December 5 - 21 at Covent Garden Market and we are thrilled to have your favourite artists performing as part of our London Arts Live Expansion program supported by The Paul Seed Fund . This weekend's artists include: Friday, December 12 4pm - 5:30pm | Shelly Faris Duo (outside) 4pm - 6pm | Greg Lirette (inside) 6:30pm - 7:30pm | Peter Tindal (inside) 8pm - 10pm | Ian McNally (inside) 8pm - 10pm | Justin Maki (outside) Saturday, December 13 10am - 12pm | Stephen Hames Ingram (inside) 10am - 12pm | Saveria (outside) 12:30pm - 2:30pm | Travis Beatty (inside) 1pm - 3pm | Gianny Corea (outside) 3pm - 5pm | Ben Heffernan (inside) 4pm - 6pm | Kendra Gabrielle (outside) 5:30pm - 7:30pm | Shawn Andrew (inside) 7pm - 9pm | Bob's Yer Funkle Band (outside) 8pm - 9pm | Mike Couture (inside) Sunday, December 14 10am - 12pm | Mike Couture (inside) 10am - 12pm | Laika Berdey (outside) 12:30pm - 1:30pm | Donald Waugh (outside) 12:30pm - 2:30pm | Sam Peco (inside) 2pm - 2:30pm | Girl Pow-R (outside) 3pm - 5pm | Tyrone Traher (inside) 3pm - 5pm | Naide and the Living Notes (outsid e) OPPORTUNITIES Call for expressions of interest! With CAIP funding available in the new year, we are looking for arts professionals and/or community members involved in the arts in London to serve as assessors in the evaluation of submissions to the Community Arts Investment Program (CAIP). Each assessor helps evaluate investment submissions, make decisions on who receives funding, advise on priorities, and recommend dollar amounts for each investment. Submit your expression of interest today using the form below. Full details including assessor roles and requirements are also available through the form. SPOTLIGHT (l-r) Eunju Yi, Kyung Kim, Joshua Stanton, Haeun Kim, Heekyung Park, Kyubo Na, David Son at the London Korean Christian Church on December 7, 2025 Daegu Opernstudio in London! We were so pleased to be part of hosting three soloists from the Daegu Opernstudio this past week. Thanks to everyone who came out to the performances—at Western University's Don Wright Faculty of Music and at the London Korean Christian Church—and the open rehearsal which took place at St. Paul's Cathedral. The artistry shown by Daegu Opernstudio soloists, Haeun Kim, Heekyung Park, and Kyubo Na, as well as Don Wright Faculty of Music's DMA student, Joshua Stanton and collaborative pianist, professor Kyung Kim, was deeply inspirational. Their performances and rehearsals further highlighted the importance of international collaboration in celebration of our city's UNESCO designation as well as the positive experiences and connection that are possible through engagements such as this one. LAC’s support for this past week's events was through our Artist in residence cultural exchange program, in partnership with the London Music Office and City of London Purchase Services. Our congratulations to Alfredo Caxaj! 🎉 Sunfest’s Founder and Artistic Co-Director Alfredo Caxaj has officially been appointed a Member of the Order of Canada! CONNECT WITH US You may have noticed... If we are connected on Facebook or Instagram you may have noticed a couple videos which have launched a new "Get to Know Your London Arts Council" series. With the many questions we have received over the years we hope this series sheds some light—in a fun and creative way—on areas that generate the most confusion about our organization. Want to follow along? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram GIFT OPPORTUNITY THIS SEASON 🎁 Want to support the arts in your community? Donations of all sizes are meaningful and directly contribute to the vibrancy of our community. As you know, our programs are focused on arts investment, community building, cultivating allyship, arts education, Truth and Reconciliation, health and well-being, as well as public art and art activation providing paid opportunities for professional artists to create and deliver artworks in London and surrounding First Nations (Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Oneida Nation of the Thames, and Munsee-Delaware Nation) . Our programs also support the work of local arts organizations and increase accessibility and participation in artistic activities for Londoners and visitors. An important note as we approach the end of the year...we are a registered charitable organization so you will also receive a tax receipt for your gift to us. We THANK YOU for your generosity! ❄️ HOLIDAY CLOSURE ❄️ Please note that our office will be closed for the holidays starting December 22, 2025 and we will reopen on January 5, 2026. We want to wish you all a magical, safe, and healthy holiday season and a new year filled with joy, peace, and even more ART!
- November Updates
Holly Jolly Market, Convent Garden Market, 2023 The holidays are right around the corner and a festive feeling is in the air! We are sending warm wishes and sharing ways the arts in our community can sprinkle a little extra joy this season! Thank you to our operational partners for your ongoing support. Your funding and partnership provide crucial support for LAC in maintaining and growing capacity for ongoing development, implementation, and delivery of professional artistic programs and services for our community and the local arts sector. We extend our gratitude to our strategic programming partners whose generosity helps us support the local arts community and artists with meaningful programs and opportunities. PUBLIC ART PROJECTS Artist Olukayode (Kay) Ojo , a Nigerian-born Canadian artist whose work blends contemporary and traditional African influences into a bold, abstract expressionist style exhibits work at RBC Place Gallery, London. His paintings have been exhibited in prestigious venues, including the 2022 Art à la Carte exhibition at the Legislative Building in Toronto. His works are also held in the collections of Museum London and The Art Emporium in Port Stanley. He has painted portraits of notable figures, including former Nigerian President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. Don't miss your chance to experience this exhibit in person! The exhibit at RBC Place Gallery runs August 26 – December 20. Piano Serenade – Kay Ojo PROGRAMS AND LEARNING Expanded Belong Youth Art Workshops at Crouch, SLNRC, GCCRC, LUSO and NWLNRC. Programs are running from September 12 to December 20 at five different Community Centres across the city, Belong Youth Art Workshops run each Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. TVDSB Indigenous Culture Program (NAC 10) at Beal and Saunders from November 5 - December 11 . While this program is offered through TVDSB and is not open to the public, we wanted to highlight the opportunity this collaboration offers to professional artists while supporting Indigenous-focused programming for participating TVDSB students. This year's program features Mikaila Stevens as the mentor artist and Mireya Seymour and Mackenzie Daniels are the mentees. Last year, Emily Schuyler was the mentor artist for the program and shared her experience in this role. "Collaborating on the Belong Program with the London Arts Council was a true highlight of my year. I had the privilege of teaching Indigenous-focused art workshops and mentoring two incredible Indigenous artists. Watching students engage with art, reflect deeply, and create with such openness was incredibly moving. Their curiosity and thoughtfulness, alongside the growth of my mentees, reminded me of the profound power of art to connect us to culture, spark empathy, and inspire meaningful understanding. It was a beautiful reminder of why this work matters so deeply." printmaking with medicine plants created by students in Emily Schuyler's workshop ARTS ACTIVATIONS Mark your calendars! This year's Holly Jolly Market runs December 5 - 21 at Covent Garden Market and we are thrilled to have your favourite artists performing as part of our London Arts Live Expansion program supported by The Paul Seed Fund . And that's not all! Every week the downtown core is activated with live, local musical talent with support from The Paul Seed Fund including performances at Covent Garden Market every Saturday from 8:30am - 1:00pm! Also on Saturdays, we have sound techs at High Street Bar and Grill assisting with their open mic nights (open to the general public) from 8:00pm - 12:00am. OPPORTUNITIES Call for expressions of interest! We are looking for arts professionals and/or community members involved in the arts in London to serve as assessors in the evaluation of submissions to the Community Arts Investment Program (CAIP). Each assessor helps evaluate investment submissions, make decisions on who receives funding, advise on priorities, and recommend dollar amounts for each investment. Submit your expression of interest today using the form below. Full details including assessor roles and requirements are also available through the form. NEWS Welcome to the team, Rebeca! Earlier this month we welcomed our newest team member, Rebeca Daminelli, Administrator, Operations & Business Development. Thank you, Ontario Arts Council! We are so appreciative of the OAC grant we have received and know the immense value this has for our community of artists. We wanted to share remarks from both Terrence Kernaghan, MPP and our board chair, Janet Loo which further express the incredible impact this generosity will have on our community. "I will always uphold that during times of economic strife or social unrest, the arts are more important than ever. They are what uplift us, inspire us, drive us, bring us together, and unite us. The arts are also a key economic driver and contribute billions in economic activity for our city and province. I want to thank Twee Brown and the Ontario Arts Council for their investment in the London Arts Council, which allows so much great programming and events to happen right here in London. Because of this funding, talented people like Eunju Yi and all the great people at London Arts Council are able to partner with wonderful organizations like LBMX to offer mentorship programs like the one we are celebrating today." – Terrence Kernaghan, MPP (quote from Extravabandza on September 6, 2025) "On behalf of the London Arts Council, I want to express our deepest gratitude to the Ontario Arts Council for its generous grant support. This investment is vital in keeping our operations strong, so that we can continue delivering the impactful programming and services that support artists and enrich the arts community in London. Thank you to the OAC for its continued confidence in our work and for helping make the arts accessible, vibrant, and meaningful not only in London, but across the province." – Janet Loo, Chair, LAC Board of Directors SPOTLIGHT Daegu Opernstudio comes to London! We are thrilled to be collaborating with the Don Wright Faculty of Music, Western University as they welcome three Daegu Opernstudio performers from the Daegu Opera House in South Korea. Like London, Daegu is a UNESCO City of Music , and this visit is part of a musical exchange where Western's Don Wright Faculty of Music nominates students and alumni to go to South Korea in October to make their South Korea debut and in return students of the Opernstudio travel to London for their Canadian debut. Haeun Kim, Heekyung Park, and Kyubo Na have been selected to travel to London as part of this exchange and will have their debut performance in von Kuster Hall on December 5 at 12:30pm. This is a free concert and all are welcome to attend in person or via livestream. In addition to the concert on December 5, our visiting artists will be welcomed at the London Korean Christian Church on December 7 for an afternoon concert. With the support of St. Paul's Cathedral, we are also planning an open rehearsal where the public can experience a professional rehearsal up close! LAC’s support is through our Artist in residence cultural exchange program, in partnership with the London Music Office and City of London Purchase Services. Please stay tuned to our socials and your inbox for additional details on these exciting events. In case you missed it... Our team had a fun time creating this year's Halloween video! The theme? Horror movie characters! Does Phil's "The Dude" from The Big Lebowski count? We will leave that to you to decide... THE ART OF GIVING December 2 is GivingTuesday! Have you been thinking about ways in which you can contribute to the work we do? GivingTuesday—a global generosity movement—is a great reminder of the power we have to do good in our community and is an opportunity to show your support through a donation! As we are a registered charitable organization you will also receive a tax receipt for your gift to us. Donations of all sizes are meaningful and directly contribute to the vibrancy of our community. As you know, our programs are focused on arts investment, community building, cultivating allyship, arts education, Truth and Reconciliation, health and well-being, as well as public art and art activation providing paid opportunities for professional artists to create and deliver artworks in London and surrounding First Nations (Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Oneida Nation of the Thames, and Munsee-Delaware Nation) . Our programs also support the work of local arts organizations and increase accessibility and participation in artistic activities for Londoners and visitors. We THANK YOU for your generosity!
- Meet the Team: Rebeca Daminelli, Administrator, Operations and Business Development
Rebeca is an experienced operations professional with over 15 years of expertise in project and program management across corporate and nonprofit sectors. She holds a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Universidade Federal do Paraná in Brazil. Meet Rebeca Daminelli Rebeca is an experienced operations professional with over 15 years of expertise in project and program management across corporate and nonprofit sectors. She holds a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Universidade Federal do Paraná in Brazil. With a deep belief in the power of the arts to connect people and create meaningful change, Rebeca is committed to fostering initiatives that strengthen the local arts community. Ask Me Anything - with Rebeca Daminelli What is your artistic background? Although I don’t have formal training in the arts, I grew up deeply immersed in creative activities, taking dance classes three times a week, performing in theatre, and singing in choirs. My favourite experiences, and where I dedicate most of my free time, have always revolved around the arts: attending concerts and plays, visiting museums, and exploring cultural events. In recent years, I have ventured into community theatre productions and absolutely loved the collaborative process and the thrill of performing. What do you think are the best skills that you bring to your job? I believe my greatest strength is a result of the combination of my passion for the arts and the organizational skills I have developed over the years working in large corporations. I thrive on challenges and tend to analyze problems from a broader perspective, which I consider valuable in an environment as fluid and vibrant as the world of the arts. I also enjoy working with people and am continually inspired by the incredible capacity individuals have to create new realities through artistic expression. Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about? I like to think that I am genuinely funny and tell some of the best jokes and puns. Please don’t fact-check this one with my kids!












