JULY 18, 2024

COMMUNITY VITALITY 2024

Forest City Gallery

Collaboratory Community Outreach Program

GRANT: $120,775 FOR 3 YEARS

Forest City Gallery (FCG), nestled in the heart of London, has been a vibrant hub for artistic expression since 1973. As the only artist-run centre in London and Middlesex County, FCG stands as a beacon for emerging and mid-career artists seeking support, mentorship, and a platform to showcase their work.

In 2023, their landmark 50th year, FCG embarked on an ambitious journey to strengthen the region's artistic landscape further. With their vision firmly set on community collaboration and empowerment, they unveiled a new initiative: the Collaboratory (Collab).

Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and software, the Collab serves as a launchpad for artists to explore the realms of visual arts, performance, music, and sound. The hybrid resource offers a comprehensive and holistic program of resources, mentorship, training, and information sharing.

“The Collaboratory isn't just about providing tools; it's about fostering a supportive ecosystem where artists can thrive. Through on-site workshops, mentorship programs, and peer-to-peer interactions, FCG ensures that emerging artists have the resources and guidance they need to realize their full potential,” says Ruth Skinner, outgoing Executive Director, Forest City Gallery.

With a $120,775 Community Vitality grant over three years, Forest City Gallery will expand the scope of the Collab’s resource offerings with additional digital tools and new audio equipment, which is currently not available.

The grant will also support the creation of a staff position dedicated to community outreach and programming to expand FGC’s workshop, training, and mentorship offerings and oversee seasonal Art Bus Tours. These seasonal tours, weaving through local and regional cultural hotspots, showcase the rich tapestry of artistic talent and foster stronger community ties and accessibility to the arts.

Beyond the support of the London Community Foundation, FCG is actively seeking partnerships, grants, and sponsorships to ensure the longevity of their initiatives. With a dedicated team and a passionate community behind them, they're poised to continue making waves in the artistic landscape for years to come.

Find out more about the other Community Vitality recipients:

• Canadian Mental Health Association Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services: Francophone Ethnocultural Friendship Bench ($140,181 for 3 years)

• Changing Ways: Collaborating for a Safer London ($150,000 for 2 years)

• Forest City Gallery: Collaboratory Community Outreach Program ($120,775 for 3 years)

• London InterCommunity Health Centre: Women of the World (WOW) – Childcare provision ($63,000 for 3 years)

• London Public Library: Transitional Case Worker Program ($280,000 for 3 years)

• Low-Income Family Empowerment Sole-Support Parents Information Network (LIFE*SPIN): Empowering London's Low-Income Families: A Fresh Approach to Food Security ($350,000 for 3 years)

• Regional HIV/AIDS Connection: MAGICAL (Multicultural Accessible Gatherings Improving 2SLGBTQIA+ Community Affirmation in London) ($67,000 for 1 year)

• Urban Roots London in partnership with Siloam United Church: Cultivating Food Security Through Urban Agriculture ($282,354 for 3 years)