Brampton Arts Organization

The Brampton Arts Organization (BAO), previously the Arts, Culture & Creative Industry Development Agency (ACCIDA), is a unique organization incubating within the City of Brampton focused on growing, celebrating, advocating for and connecting the creative sector by offering a range of programs, services and resources. We are a key partner in delivering the City’s ambitious vision for the arts, culture and creative industries as articulated in the City’s strategic vision and Culture Master Plan.

Vision: A thriving, confident, and valued creative scene and cultural ecology is the heart of our prosperous mosaic city.

Mission: To incubate, advance, connect and advocate for Brampton’s arts, culture and creative industries.

Values: Passion and Ambition, Diversity and Inclusiveness, Service, Community and Collaboration, Excellence and Innovation, Optimism.

We are focused on providing programs and services in collaboration with inter and cross-sectoral partners in the areas of:

Funding, finance and investment.
Leadership, advocacy and innovation.
Sector development and growth.

BAO is a member of the Alliance of Arts Councils of Ontario (AACO).

2022 highlights include:

605% increase in Brampton Arts Organization event and program attendance in 2022.
More than 3,240 local artists participated in one of our 87 events, programs and workshops in 2022.
132 Brampton artists showcased through 10 calls for submission in 2022.
Launched the Creative Space Catalogue: a public space inventory of more than 200 Brampton sites where arts and culture activities can take place.
Launched the BAO Ambassador Program with Brampton representatives including: Director X, Rupi Kaur, Haviah Mighty, Sasha Leigh Henry and others across creative disciplines.

Full BAO 2022 Annual Report (PDF)2021 Annual Report

Announcements

Call to Artists, Musicians, Creatives and Art Collectives: PIXEL 50th Exhibition

Brampton is turning 50 and to celebrate we are selecting 50 interdisciplinary artworks from Brampton based artists and musicians.

Help us tell your story within the story of Brampton's past, present and future and have your work featured on the 24' LED screen in Garden Square!

Initiatives

Artist Market

Creative Space Catalogue

PIXEL

Postcard Project

Resources

BAO Ambassadors

Events

Jan 31 - BAO Open Studio+
Join us for our monthly Brampton Arts Organization Open Studio +. That's right — we are opening up the BAO office once a month from noon to 8:00 PM to the Brampton creative community!

Bring your own works in progress or just drop in and use our art supplies and material to start a new project, find inspiration in our Community Library or make a button with our button maker.

Make the BAO office, your studio for the day. Register here.
Dec 10 - Brampton Artist in Residence Film Screening and Celebration
Sima Naseem, Brampton Artist in Residence will deliver free community-focused public arts programming through a series of workshops for youth aged 10 to 14 years. These workshops will take place at the Brampton Library's Four Corners Branch.

Sima and her youth co-creators will host a film screening and gallery, displaying the puppets, sets, and artwork used to create their film. Join us for a meet and greet with light refreshments. Everyone is welcome to attend. Details here.
Dec 7 - Unlocked: How to Build & Reimagine A Career in Film
Whether you’ve always known you wanted a career in film or are curious to learn about possible career paths and opportunities in the film industry, this is a panel discussion, you don’t want to miss!

Our distinguished panel consists of Kadon Douglas, Founder and Executive Director of BIPOC TV & Film, Jollene Phillips & Carlos Anthony, Co-Founders of Millennial X, David Phillips, BAO Ambassador, Film Producer and Director, and moderator, Crystal C Rose, Actor, Director, Writer, and Producer.

Join us and discover the myriad of opportunities and career paths in the film industry. Register here.
Dec 5 - Community Presents: Creative Process Workshop
The Community Presents series is a new initiative from the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) that facilitates learning and knowledge-sharing within the Brampton creative community while developing individual community members' facilitation skills. To that end, we've empowered Brampton artists and creatives to craft programming and initiatives specifically for their community.

Creative work takes a lot of exploration and this workshop will enable you to collaborate on the messy, unseen, ever-changing process of creating artwork. Participants will explore different vantage points and mediums and use them to inform your work.

This workshop will include movement activities, writing prompts, collaborative discussions, and more. Artists are free to bring in examples of their work/in progress thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and reflections on how they work best to share during the workshop. Register here.
Nov 29 - BAO Open Studio +
Join us for our monthly Brampton Arts Organization Open Studio +. That's right — we are opening up the BAO office once a month from noon to 8:00 PM to the Brampton creative community!

Bring your own works in progress or just drop in and use our art supplies and material to start a new project, find inspiration in our Community Library or make a button with our button maker.

More details to come. Register here.
Nov 18 - Brampton Winter Artist Market
Join us for the second Brampton Winter Artist Market on Saturday, November 18th from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Brampton Library's Springdale Branch.

A wide variety of Brampton artists and arts orgs will be waiting to meet you and show off their one-of-a-kind works. You won't be disappointed, whether you are shopping for yourself or for gifts.

There will be something for everyone to enjoy! Details and vendors here.
Nov 16 - Work in Culture & BAO Mentorship Program for Brampton Creative Businesses & Arts Orgs Close-Out Mentorship Workshop
During this workshop, participants will benefit from a peer-learning/peer-mentoring experience as they report back on their mentorship experience to-date and what progress has been made on addressing their challenge or idea – and potentially what has changed for them since starting the program! Participants will reflect on what more they need to address their challenge or idea and schedule their next meeting(s) with their mentor(s). There will also be an opportunity to network with other participants and mentors. Participation in all 3 workshops is required to receive 1:1 time with mentors. Details here.
Nov 8 - BAO Fall Town Hall: Community Check-In and Social
Join us for our Fall Town Hall as we review recent BAO events, programs and resources. We will also be sharing our newly released Strategic Plan so you can learn more about our strategic goals, objectives and tactics for supporting the Brampton creative community in the years to come.

We will be joined by our colleagues in the Culture Services team who will be offering updates on behalf of the City.

After the presentations, there will be a Q&A session during which you can suggest programming that the Brampton creative community needs. Your voice is crucial to our success!

Brampton artists Kaveri and Abiola Idowu will be doing live painting. We'll also have live music, delicious food, and screenprints on offer! So be sure to stick around after the Town Hall to nosh, mingle with your fellow community members, and enjoy the performances.

Following the Town Hall, please feel free to stick around, grab a few snacks and drinks, enjoy live painting, and mingle with your creative community members while we enjoy performances from local Brampton talent. Register here.
Nov 7 - Ontario Creates Information Session
Anna Newallo, Program Consultant, Film & TV, Industry Development at Ontario Creates will share an overview of the funding streams for the screen industry. Jennifer Pun, partner and producer at Edge Entertainment, will then discuss how to create a successful application.

This session focuses exclusively on the screen industries portion of Ontario Creates programs. Register here.
Nov 4 & 11 - Community Presents: Zine-Making with Canvas
The Community Presents series is a new initiative from the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) that facilitates learning and knowledge-sharing within the Brampton creative community while developing individual community members' facilitation skills. To that end, we've empowered Brampton artists and creatives to craft programming and initiatives specifically for their community.

In this-two part hybrid workshop, you will learn how to make a zine digitally using Canva. The first workshop will be held on Zoom and the second workshop will be held in-person. It is highly recommended that you register for both sessions. Register here.

In the first workshop you will learn about the history of zines and how to design a zine using Canva.

In the second workshop which will be held in-person, participants will print and learn how to properly bind their zine.
Nov 1 - Take Our Kids to Work Day
Presented in partnership with Performing Arts Brampton, we are calling all Grade 9 students who are interested in learning more about a career in the arts to join us for the day.

Unlike the traditional Take Our Kids to Work Day, you are not required to have a parent or sponsor who works here. All grade 9 students are welcome to attend this FREE program.

This day features:
- Career panel
- Tour of The Rose Theatre and Brampton Arts Organization
- Catered hot lunch
- Workshop with Charmaine Lurch, a Brampton interdisciplinary visual artist
Register here.
October 30 - Arts Grant Writing Workshop Series: One-On-One Granting Clinic
You can sign up for a 15-minute one-on-one meeting for workshop series participants to discuss your artistic practice and current projects in order to identify appropriate funders and programs to approach. In advance of this meeting, you have the option of sharing a past grant application or one that you’re currently working on for review and feedback. This is an amazing opportunity to get customized advice from an expert in arts granting. Information here.
Oct 29 - Brampton Artist in Residence Animation Workshop
Sima Naseem, Brampton Artist in Residence will deliver free community-focused public arts programming through a series of workshops for youth aged 10 to 14 years. These workshops will take place at the Brampton Library's Four Corners Branch.

Students (10-14 years old) will learn about stop-motion animation to bring puppet characters to life using green screens. Register here.
Oct 26-29 - Brampton Arts Organization at Art Toronto
BAO is returning to Art Toronto from October 26 to 29, 2023 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Art Toronto is Canada's premiere art fair, featuring over 100+ galleries from across Canada, the US and abroad. Art Toronto brings together collectors, curators, galleries and artists in an exciting, fast-paced setting.

We will be in the Content Section, where visitors to the fair can connect with museums, non-profit galleries, and art organizations to learn about their programming as well as purchase editioned works, books and catalogues.

BAO will be offering our ever popular FREE Brampton artist postcards and limited edition prints by Camilla Teodoro (while quantities last).

Make sure to stop by our table, learn about BAO and pick up some Brampton artist postcards and prints.
Oct 26 - Work in Culture & BAO Mentorship Program for Brampton Creative Businesses & Arts Orgs Mid-Point Mentorship Workshop
During this workshop, participants will benefit from a peer-learning/peer-mentoring experience as they report back on their mentorship experience to-date and what progress has been made on addressing their challenge or idea – and potentially what has changed for them since starting the program! Participants will reflect on what more they need to address their challenge or idea and schedule their next meeting(s) with their mentor(s). There will also be an opportunity to network with other participants and mentors. Participation in all 3 workshops is required to receive 1:1 time with mentors. Apply here.
Oct 25 - BAO Open Studio +
Join us for our monthly Brampton Arts Organization Open Studio +. That's right — we are opening up the BAO office once a month from noon to 8:00 PM to the Brampton creative community! Register here.

Bring your own works in progress or just drop in and use our art supplies and material to start a new project, find inspiration in our Community Library or make a button with our button maker.

Grant Writing Support - 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

Get grant writing support from our colleague Amir Majid, the City of Brampton’s Grant Administration Officer. Amir can review your grant applications; help you with budgets planning and development; advise you on communicating project goals and outlines; and also answer questions about the Advance Brampton Fund.

Willow Lantern Building for Diwali - 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Build a willow lantern for Diwali.

Beading Workshop - 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Learn about the historical and cultural significance of beading and bead work to Indigenous peoples while you create a beaded charm using the brick stitch style. Our instructor is Joy Rogers, a member of the Six Nations of the Grand River, Seneca with Haudenosaunee (Six Nations) and Chippewa (Beausoleil FN) ancestry on her maternal side. The workshop is open to all levels of experience with beading.
October 24 - Arts Grant Writing Workshop Series: Module 4 - Decoding Grant Speak
This workshop will involve taking a deep dive into a project grant application and its guidelines to better understand eligibility, program priorities, and identify key words and concepts. In hands-on exercises, you’ll draft clear and compelling project descriptions and responses to different types of application questions. You’ll outline your workplan and estimate expenses to create a project budget. Register here.
Oct 23 - Music Ontario's Communities Connect Brampton: Pursuing A Career As A Music Producer
At this event, you'll have the chance to learn directly from a diverse group of industry professionals who have successfully navigated the music production landscape. They will share their experiences, tips, and invaluable advice on how to build a sustainable and profitable career in music production.

Join us for an evening that promises to equip you with the knowledge and connections you need to excel in your music production journey. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, "Pursuing a Career as a Producer" is an event you won't want to miss. Register here.
Oct 22 - Brampton Artist in Residence Puppet Creation Workshop
Sima Naseem, Brampton Artist in Residence will deliver free community-focused public arts programming through a series of workshops for youth aged 10 to 14 years. These workshops will take place at the Brampton Library's Four Corners Branch.

Using the characters created in the Storytelling Workshop, participants (10-14 years old) will build puppets using recycled goods, old clothing, and magazines. Don’t forget to bring your recycled materials! Register here.
Oct 22 - Community Presents: Creative Direction for Social
The Community Presents series is a new initiative from the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) that facilitates learning and knowledge-sharing within the Brampton creative community while developing individual community members' facilitation skills. To that end, we've empowered Brampton artists and creatives to craft programming and initiatives specifically for their community.

This workshop will provide participants with an overview of creative direction and hands-on experience styling an in-person photo and video shoot. Participants will have the opportunity to choose between a variety of props and sets, style them for photographs and videos, and then create a social media campaign with the results. Register here.
Oct 20 - PIXEL: Indigenous Art Exhibition Launch
Join us as we celebrate the launch of PIXEL: Indigenous Art Exhibition. Featuring work by 25 Brampton and GTA-based Indigenous artists, the evening will also include a series of performances, activities and special remarks at the BAO office.

Gather in community with Indigenous artists to experience diverse mediums, from striking paintings to intricate crafts and musical performances. This is a unique opportunity to connect and commune with Indigenous creatives. Register here.
Oct 18 - Unlocked: Relationship Building - Artists, Curators, & Gallerist in Conversation
Join us for an illuminating and lively conversation between artists, curators and gallerists on developing and maintaining meaningful working relationships with each other, whether in commercial or public galleries.

Our distinguished panel consists of working artists Gordon Shadrach and Linda Martinello; Melanie Trojkovic, Gallery Director at United Contemporary; Renée van der Avoird, Associate Curator of Canadian Art at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO); and moderator Sharona Adamowicz-Clements, Curator of Canadian Art at Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA).

This is a great opportunity for emerging artists to get an insider's view of the art world from the perspectives of working artists with gallery representation as well as from commercial and public gallery curators. Register here.
October 17 - Arts Grant Writing Workshop Series: Module 3 - Grant Application as Business Plan
This workshop will look at grant applications as a business plan and examine their technical components. We’ll look at the budget and workplan according to program guidelines and discuss how to select your strongest supplementary documentation and artistic support materials. And finally, what to do when your grant application is successful (and when it’s not). Register here.
Oct 15 - Brampton Artist in Residence Storytelling Workshop
Sima Naseem, Brampton Artist in Residence will deliver free community-focused public arts programming through a series of workshops for youth aged 10 to 14 years. These workshops will take place at the Brampton Library's Four Corners Branch.

Students (10-14 years old) will be given the prompt, "together we flourish," and brainstorm potential stories together. Once the group decides on a story, each student will design their own characters. Register here.
Oct 12, 19, 28, Nov 2, & 9 - Professional Practices Program
This practical five-week program will explore basic and vital creative professional skills that are integral to the survival of a creative practitioner.

This program will consider several aspects of an artist's work that are related to curatorial practice and exhibiting artwork; and will combine weekly lectures, weekly assignments and in-person demonstrations. Participants will be introduced to practical ways of exhibiting art, the logistical considerations of framing, packing and shipping artwork, understanding how to install and document artwork and current trends in practices of display. To learn more, contact us at bao@brampton.ca
October 10 - Arts Grant Writing Workshop Series: Module 2 - Grant Application as Narrative
This workshop will look at grant applications as a narrative and focus on the importance of storytelling in communicating impact. We’ll look at different application forms and look closely at questions to "read between the lines." Register here.
Oct 10 - Community Presents: Graphic Novel Masterclass
The Community Presents series is a new initiative from the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) that facilitates learning and knowledge-sharing within the Brampton creative community while developing individual community members' facilitation skills. To that end, we've empowered Brampton artists and creatives to craft programming and initiatives specifically for their community.

This workshop will help you plan out your comic or graphic novel from idea to final artwork. We’ll look at different ways of fleshing out ideas, writing a script, creating designs, and finally, panelling out a full page of comic art to enhance the story. We will also discuss, from an author/writer perspective, how to find and approach an artist/illustrator to work with on your independent comic/graphic novel. Register here.
Oct 6 - Community Presents: Foodies of Brampton
The Community Presents series is a new initiative from the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) that facilitates learning and knowledge-sharing within the Brampton creative community while developing individual community members' facilitation skills. To that end, we've empowered Brampton artists and creatives to craft programming and initiatives specifically for their community.

Foodies of Brampton is a coming together of local artists who have a passion for cultural expression through food and art. Between September 30 and October 20, visitors to The Rose Theatre will enjoy this foodie art display curated by Saphera Peters and Sabbie Narwal. An artist meet and greet and market will take place on Friday, October 6th between 7-10 p.m. No registration is required.
Oct 5 - Work in Culture & BAO Mentorship Program for Brampton Creative Businesses & Arts Orgs Kick-Off Workshop
This workshop will cover best practices around mentorship and help clarify mutual expectations of the program. Mentors will provide brief presentations on their experience and areas of expertise. Participants will engage in a speed mentoring activity to get to know the mentors and help them determine who may best address their challenge or idea and schedule their first meeting. There will also be an opportunity to network with other participants and mentors. Participation in all 3 workshops is required to receive 1:1 time with mentors. Apply here.
October 3 - Arts Grant Writing Workshop Series: Module 1 - Finding the Right Program
This workshop will provide you with an understanding of the arts granting landscape, including an overview of the various funding agencies, their programs, priorities, and processes. We’ll look at different types of grants, eligibility requirements and assessment criteria to help you determine “fit” and target the right program for your artistic practice or project/activity. Register here.
Sept 28 - Ontario Arts Council Information Session for Peel Artists
Participate in a FREE online information session for Peel Region artists about these Ontario Arts Council (OAC) professional development grants:
- Skills and Career Development: Indigenous Arts Professionals and Arts Professionals of Colour – Next deadline: May 2, 2024, at 1 p.m.
- Chalmers Professional Development Projects – Next deadline: November 16, 2023, at 1 p.m.
- Chalmers Arts Fellowships – Next deadline: June 3, 2024, at 1 p.m.
- Artist-Presenter Collaboration Projects – Next deadlines: April 27 and October 27, 2022, at 1 p.m.
Learn how to develop a successful application from OAC staff and artists who have been successful in applying. Register here.
Sept 27 - BAO Open Studio +
Join us for the first monthly Brampton Arts Organization Open Studio +. That's right — we are opening up the BAO office once a month from noon to 8:00 PM to the Brampton creative community!

Bring your own works in progress or just drop in and use our art supplies and material to start a new project or make a button with our button maker.

We will also be officially launching the BAO Community Library.

This month, the session is on printmaking. Whether you are an experienced printmaker or have always wanted to try your hand at printmaking, our community screen printing session will run from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. We will have pre-made screens for you to learn on as well as the opportunity for you to create your own design by utilizing the cut paper stencil method. Register here.
Sept 23 - Community Presents: Vocal Care & Performance
The Community Presents series is a new initiative from the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) that facilitates learning and knowledge-sharing within the Brampton creative community while developing individual community members' facilitation skills. To that end, we've empowered Brampton artists and creatives to craft programming and initiatives specifically for their community.

This workshop is for ALL performers and artists, emerging through mid-career, who use their voice as their instrument.

During this workshop, participants will learn how to take the best care of their most important instrument, their voice. To that end, they will learn vocal and breath/mic technique and vocal hygiene as well as the anatomy and physiology of the voice and volume and intonation. In addition to vocal care, participants will also receive performance coaching.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from Juno award-winning singer, Liberty Silver, and award-winning MC/speaker Andria Barrett. Register here.
Sept 23 - BAO X PAMA – En Plein Air Sketching Tour
The Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) and the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA) are teaming up for a very special Culture Days experience.

First, we'll be treated to a special tour of PAMA's exhibition Yours to Discover: Sights/Sites of Peel Region. Then we'll take our inspiration on the road for a sketching tour en plein air of downtown Brampton. French for "in the open air," the term refers to creating art outside, in response to what we see and feel. Register here.
Sept 21 - Open Mic with Spitty
That’s right, the Brampton Library’s monthly Open Mic with Spitty is moving this fall — right to the BAO Office.

Same format, same host, just an all-new location!

Drop-in at 8 Nelson St. W., Unit 301 and perform. We want to hear your beats, your soulful ballads, your most eclectic flow.
Sept 19 - Power Hour: Creating Inclusive Workshops for Arts Facilitators
In this virtual session, you will learn how to facilitate inclusive workshops and programming as well as about the must-haves for accessible spaces. You will also learn how the identities of individual participants inform how they learn and play.

This is a must attend workshop for those who want to create workshops and programming that is inclusive and accessible to as many people as possible. Register here.
Sept 16 - Community Presents: Mindful Moves
The Community Presents series is a new initiative from the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) that facilitates learning and knowledge-sharing within the Brampton creative community while developing individual community members' facilitation skills. To that end, we've empowered Brampton artists and creatives to craft programming and initiatives specifically for their community.

This Mindful Movement class merges the fun, mood-boosting rhythms of Caribbean music and dance (Soca) with the power of mindfulness practice. Participants will become acquainted with the concept of easy meditative movement while the benefits of meditation are demystified.

In the post-pandemic era, stress, especially for artists/creatives, remains at an all-time high. This workshop offers proven stress-reduction techniques in a fun and accessible way. Register here.
Sept 12 - BAO Community Guidelines Workshop (Virtual)
Help the Brampton Arts Organization create community guidelines to ensure that all our events are safe and inclusive for all.

Join us with facilitator Rania El Mugammar to review our existing guidelines with an eye to developing and drafting a fuller set that is responsive to your needs and expectations. Going forward, the guidelines will structure our physical and virtual events and apply to all participants in order to create a supportive space for everyone

Through examples, collaborative discussions, and group work, participants will help shape these BAO community guidelines. The revised community guidelines will then be shared with the broader Brampton creative community for general feedback and will be open to changes and growth as it develops. Register here.
Sept 2 - Gage Park Drawing Tour with Visual Arts Brampton
Join Visual Arts Brampton facilitator Paulina Su for an outdoor sketching tour of Gage Park during the Brampton Farmers' Market.

Participants will learn an array of drawing techniques including observation skills, shading, capturing texture, perspective, and composition.

Open to ages 13+ and all skill levels. All materials will be provided. Register here.
Aug 17 - Unlocked: Creating & Sustaining Music Collectives in the GTA
Join us for what is certain to be an insightful discussion on the intricacies of creating and sustaining music collectives in the GTA from those that have done so.

Our panelists will share their expertise and insights into what it actually takes to build successful music collectives while navigating the unique challenges and opportunities in the GTA.

Moderators: Shade Waheed & Noyz

Panellists:

Alliston Davis - AFROWAVETO and R.I.S.E Edutainment

Jerome Ferguson - BEATCAVE

Joel Naga - filltheBLNK

REGISTER HERE
Aug 10 - Power Hour: Artist Admin Crash Course
In this workshop, participants will learn how to get, and stay, organized as working artists. This includes how to keep finances/invoices organized, how to create basic spreadsheets and use tracking applications as well as how to create a workback schedule.

The more efficiently you can manage the business of your art, the more time and energy you'll have for the art itself. REGISTER HERE.
Aug 1 - Information Session - Brampton Artist in Residence Program
Join us on Tuesday, August 1st for a virtual information session abou the Brampton Artist in Residence Program from noon to 1:00 pm. Learn about the program and have all your questions answered. VIEW RECORDING HERE.
July 27 - Power Hour: Find Your Voice: Songwriting 101 for Black Women
This workshop is for Black identifying women 19+ to learn basic songwriting structure from Brampton artist Nicole Chambers, and sing their creations together as group. REGISTER HERE.
July 18 - Power Hour: Networking 101
We've all heard the saying, 'Your network is your net worth,' and that couldn't be more true.

In this workshop, we'll break down networking into actionable steps including how to reach out to people, tips on having a productive conversation, and how to maintain or grow the relationship going forward.

Local artist, Saphera Peters, will go over the do's and don'ts of networking and how to ensure you are making genuine connections that will benefit your career. REGISTER HERE.
July 15 - Brampton Summer Artist Market
Join us for the second Brampton Summer Artist Market on Saturday, July 15th from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We will be in the lobby of the Rose Theatre once again.

A wide variety of Brampton artists and arts orgs will be waiting to meet you and show off their one-of-a-kind works. You won't be disappointed, whether you are shopping for yourself or for gifts.

Not only will we have a DJ spinning beats but this year, we will have a concert featuring seven Brampton performers in addition to workshops and our ever popular button making station. DETAILS HERE.

There will be something for everyone to enjoy!
July 7 to 9 - BAO @ the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair
For the first time ever, BAO will be at the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair showcasing forty nine Brampton artists. We will be handing out postcards featuring the art work of all forty nine Brampton artists that have participated in the My Artist Story Project, the original 2021 PIXEL: Digital Art Exhibit, PIXEL: Black Artists Live Here and PIXEL: Summer of Love exhibits.

You can find us in Zone E at booth 279 next to the beer garden.

The Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (TOAF) is Canada’s leading outdoor and online art fair. Established in 1961 to connect Canadian artists directly to the public, TOAF showcases 400+ emerging and established visual artists, including painters, photographers, sculptors and artists working in ceramics, textiles, jewellery and more. The event brings together 150,000 art lovers and enthusiasts at this free event takes place every July - rain or shine - at Nathan Phillips Square in the heart of downtown Toronto. DETAILS HERE.
June 24 - Brampton Public Art Walking Tour
Join arts educator Aisling Dunne for a free guided public art walking tour. On this guided tour, we will focus on the City of Brampton's public art collection. Sampling a selection of public artworks from the collection, the tour will introduce participants to the artists and the historical and innovative techniques used in their artistic practice.

Please note this tour will take place outdoors where participants will be led around various locations in the Downtown Core of Brampton. Should it rain, the tour will go ahead as normal. Suitable weather attire is strongly advised.

Please meet in front of the Cenotaph memorial, opposite the Gage Park entrance (Main & Wellington) five minutes before the tour begins at 11:30 AM. This is a free drop-in tour, no registration is required.
June 22 - Artist Talk with Born in the North Ltd for National Indigenous People's Day
Join us at the City of Brampton’s National Indigenous Day Celebration on June 22nd at 6:40 PM for an artist talk with creative design studio, Born in the North Ltd. Born in the North Ltd. will be discussing their commissioned art installation, the Big Drum.

The Big Drum Art Installation is a 10-foot wide drum which represents the heartbeat of Mother Earth and the nation. It is a symbol of gathering in celebration and pride.

Born in the North Ltd. is a creative studio owned and operated by twin brothers Chris and Greg Mitchell. Their work, created through their own unique lens, examines the relationships between humans and nature. DETAILS HERE.
June 17 - Scissor Lift Training
Scissor Lift Training will be held on Saturday, June 17, 2023, from 10 AM to 2 PM. The is a free half day Scissor Lift Training course focused on self-propelled elevated work platforms (Scissor Lifts). The use of fall protection equipment is also reviewed.

In order to register, a $25.00 deposit must be paid. This deposit will be refunded during the week following completion of the course and certification.

There is a maximum size of 14 participants per class. REGISTER HERE.
June 16 - Working at Heights Training
Working at Heights Training will be held on Friday, June 16, 2023, from 9 AM to 5 PM. This is a free, full day course, at the end of which participants will receive Ministry of Labour-approved Working at Heights Certification, valid for three years.

In order to register, a $25.00 deposit must be paid. This deposit will be refunded during the week following completion of the course and certification.

There is a maximum size of 14 participants per class. REGISTER HERE.
June 15 - This Is Brampton Showcase @ NXNE
The Velvet Rope, a lineup of emerging R&B singers, all women, all Black, all from Brampton, will shine brightly at the Drake Underground for this year’s This Is Brampton showcase at the NXNE music festival. Savannah Taylor, Keziaa, Tasha Mac and Durreyl aka Glxy promise a night of sultry, ethereal delights. Get your tickets now. DETAILS HERE.
June 9 - Luminato Festival Presents Walk With Amal: Brampton
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as worldwide sensation Amal, a 12-ft puppet of a 10-yr old Syrian refugee, journeys through Brampton in her search for hope and her home. Her visit, a part of the Luminato Festival festival, will enlighten and move you! DETAILS HERE.

Start Location at noon: Knightsbridge Kings Cross Apartments, 3 Knightsbridge Rd, Brampton, ON L6T 3X4

End Location: Bramalea Civic Centre, 150 Central Park Dr, Brampton, ON L6T 1B4
June 4 - BAO @ Brampton Pride
Join us Sunday, June 4th in Garden Square for Brampton Pride. This year, we are so excited to have a booth for all the festivities.

We can't wait for all the fabulous people, joyous exuberance, and activities like Drag Story Time with Mango Lassi, electrifying drag shows by Sanjina, Kween Mallika, and Anne Tique Doll, performances by Tara Lord, Naach For Fun and Madame Psychosis and co-headliners Vivek Shraya and Ryland James!

Returning are Hasheel hosting and DJ Lady Pista, an alum of our 2SLGBTQ+ Residency, spinning her unique fusion beats.

It’s gonna be a vibe and you don’t want to miss it. DETAILS HERE.
June 1 - Unlocked: How to Build a Portfolio & Create Your Own Opportunities
Join us and the Kollective's Kiran Rai and Baljit Singh. They will break down and share how to make a killer portfolio and, more importantly, how to share it successfully on social media.

If you are looking to build your modelling, acting, graphic design, photography, video and directing, art direction, copywriting, styling portfolio and more, then this session will help you build a portfolio that will get you noticed.

You will learn the tips and tricks to build an eye-catching portfolio and the opportunity to work on your elevator pitch, grow your network, and gain confidence at this in-person workshop.

By practicing these skills, you will become equipped to create your own career opportunities. REGISTER HERE.
May 23, 2023 - Power Hour: Websites & E-Commerce for Artists
Making a living as an artist means understanding how to build an audience, how to price art products, and the unique requirements for shipping art.

In this workshop, Sabbie Narwal will explore ways to display, promote and sell your work online, and compare some of the most popular platforms out there. REGISTER HERE.
May 18 to June 15 - Professional Practices for Artists Program
Led by Jessica Thalmann, a photo-based artist, curator and educator, this program will cover several aspects of an artist's work that are not related to studio practice. The program consists of virtual seminar discussions, weekly assignments and gallery visits.

Participating artists will be introduced to the strategic aspects of art practices, such as understanding how to manage an artist’s studio practice, developing a compelling portfolio and online presence, various application processes, grant writing strategies and networking with curators, gallerists and other art practitioners.

Program Dates:
- May 18, May 25, June 1, & June 8 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, online
- June 10th Saturday Field Trip to Toronto galleries
- June 15th One-on-one feedback sessions
Program Curriculum:
- Intro to Canadian Art World & Practical Art Skills
- Grant Writing & Funding Art Career
- Marketing: Website/Social Media
- The Studio Visit
- Toronto Gallery Visit
- One-on-One Feedback Session
May 5 - Power Hour: Setting Up Creative Spaces
Finding and setting up your own creative space poses a variety of challenges. Our Senior Program Lead, Michael Vickers, will walk you through the process and share important advice and practical tips and tricks for finding and setting up studios in Brampton.

Joining Michael with be Kofi Hope and Zahra Ebrahim of Monumental, a business working in service of the public good. REGISTER HERE.
May 4 - BAO @ FOLD - Dine + Draw: Dumpling Edition with Meegan Lim
This year we have partnered with the FOLD Festival of Literary Diversity to bring you a truly unique culinary, literary and art event: Brampton artist Meegan Lim hosting Dine + Draw: Dumpling Edition.

Hear about Meegan’s role in illustrating the anthology "What We Talk About When We Talk About Dumplings" while you nom on delicious dumplings and learn how to create art inspired by delicious food as Meegan walks you through her "exploding recipe" process. It's an irresistible combination! REGISTER HERE.
April 27 - BAO Town Hall & Community Check-In
Come learn what BAO's been up to in 2023 thus far and what we're planning for the next couple of months. Following our update there will be a Q&A, to hear your suggestions for programming that the Brampton creative community needs.

Following the Town Hall, please feel free to stick around, grab a few snacks and drinks, and mingle with your creative community members. REGISTER HERE.
April 19 - Brampton Film Screening & Networking Night
Celebrate National Canadian Film Day with us and our special guests at our second Brampton Film Screening and Networking night.  Meet other Brampton film, video and media artists and enjoy eleven finished and in-progress works. Take part in the discussions about the work and, most importantly, meet potential collaborators. REGISTER HERE.
April 13 - Time Management and Personal Productivity for Artists Workshop
A workshop to help you, the working artist enhance your personal productivity by getting a better handle on how you use your time. Building on ideas from the best-selling books Better than Before by Gretchen Rubin, Getting Things Done by David Allen and Atomic Habits by James Clear, we’ll look at concepts, habits, and other tools that you can use to become the architect of your life.

Learn how to enhance your productivity by getting a better handle on how you use your time from arts producer extraordinaire Noora Rizvi, currently the Program Manager of Arts Across Canada and Arts Abroad at the Canada Council for the Arts. REGISTER HERE.
April 3 - Anti-Oppression for Artists and Cultural Producers Workshop
Learn how to apply an anti-oppression framework to your artistic practice and work.

Join us and educator & multi-disciplinary artist Rania El Mugammar for a hands-on workshop where we will unlearn some habits of oppression and start to build equity.

Participants will leave with access to a plethora of resources to continue their learning journey after the workshop. Register here.
April 3 to May 8 - Arts Grant Writing Workshop Series
Crafting a successful grant application is its own art form. Whether you've never applied for a grant, or you have, but without success, this in-person, hands-on workshop series is for you. It covers everything you need to know about applying for arts grants.

While each workshop module is standalone, participants are encouraged to attend the entire series. That's the only way you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the arts funding landscape, how to approach preparing your application, and what to keep in mind throughout the process.

SESSIONS:
- April 3, 2023 - Module 1: Finding the Right Program
- April 11, 2023 - Module 2: Grant Application as Narrative
- April 17, 2023 - Module 3: Grant Application as Business Plan
- April 24, 2023 - Module 4: Deep Dive into a Project Grant Application
- May 1, 2023 - Module 5: Mock Peer Assessment Jury
- May 8, 2023 - Module 6 (Virtual): One-on-One Granting Clinic (up to 12 appointments)
TIME: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

LOCATION: Brampton Library, Chinguacousy Branch, 150 Central Park Dr

REGISTER HERE.
April 1 to June 3 - Marketing Intensive for Brampton Creative Businesses & Arts Organizations Workshop Series
This six-part intensive training series held with WorkInCulture will help participants develop and implement a strong marketing strategy for their arts organization or creative business.

The training program will include both in-person and virtual workshops. In-person sessions will be held at the Brampton Entrepreneur Centre.

You will receive tailored resources and worksheets at each session and have access to additional learning opportunities and resources during and post-program. REGISTER HERE.

Dates and topics include:
April 1 - Introduction to Marketing Your Organization and Events
April 12 - Branding and Unique Value Proposition
April 26 - Buyer Personas and Customer Journeys
May 10 - Marketing Collateral
May 24 - Social Media and Advertising
June 3 - Putting it all Together & Networking Event
March 30 - PIXEL Digital Art Exhibition: Brampton Reverb Showcase
We are hosting a viewing party showcasing the twenty music videos to be featured on Garden Square’s big screen for PIXEL: Brampton Reverb this spring. Join us for an evening of music and community celebration with Brampton’s brightest rising stars at the Brampton Entrepreneur Centre. Register here.
March 14 - How to Apply to Artist Markets
Artist markets represent a unique opportunity to connect with your audience, meet your peers, and hopefully earn some money.

In this workshop, you will learn how to write an artist statement and bio, how to talk about your work, and what to pay attention to in your application to markets. You will learn from Brampton illustrator and arts facilitator Meegan Lim and comic book creator Ricky Lima, both of whom have extensive artist market experience to share.

Bring all your questions for the Q&A and Meegan and Ricky will answer them. Register here.
March 9 - Power Hour: Artist Contracts 101
In this small interactive workshop for artists and arts workers, you will learn the fundamentals of what makes up a contract, including how to best vet your own contracts. Most importantly, you will gain the skills to draft your own agreements.

Former lawyer Jasmine Spei will review best practices and break down the barriers of traditional contractual language. Make sure you are getting the best out of any contract! Register here.
March 1 - Power Hour: Hosting Accessible Events
Whether you are planning a small gathering or a large multi-day event, learning about the key accessibility features of both in-person and virtual spaces will help all your attendees have the best experience possible.

Join us and author and disability rights advocate Amanda Leduc as we go over key accessibility concerns, from captioning to allotting adequate time for breaks and more.

After this workshop, you will discover that planning accessible events is not as hard as you might think! Register here.
Feb 16 - Power Hour: Understanding Artist Fees with CARFAC Ontario
Art is a job and 'exposure' won't pay your rent or put food in the fridge. That is why it is critical to know how much to charge for your work!

An artist fee is compensation for time-limited content and services provided by artists. Simple, right? Not quite.

Join us for this important workshop on artist fees with CARFAC. One of the critical functions of CARFAC is to establish standards and fee scales. Learn all that you need to know so you get paid fairly as a working artist with CARFAC. Recording will be provided to all registrants. Register here.
Feb 15 - Virtual Field Trip: Tangled Art + Disability’s Current Exhibition, avere cura
Through a Zoom-led guided tour, Tangled Art + Disability’s gallery staff will show you around the current exhibition, avere cura, and share information about the artists and their work.

avere cura emerged from the idea of curation as care – the word "curating" comes from the Latin root "to take care." avere cura uses accessibility to ask questions and make room for new ways of seeing and being, as well as making from a BIPOC, Queer and Trans, mentally ill, neurodivergent, or disabled stance. Register here.
Jan 26 - Power Hour: Creating Care - Exploring Art as a Care Practice
This workshop invites mad, Deaf, and disabled artists to come together to discuss, debate, and develop these meanings. We will build from the ground up our understanding of a community of care and its role in our art and practice. Register here.
Jan 12 - Power Hour: Taxes for Artists with Artbooks
Join us and tax preparer Tova Epp from Artbooks as she covers what freelance artists should collect and track throughout the year, how to prepare for tax season, GST/HST, bookkeeping software and more.

Come prepared to learn and make sure you are ready for the year ahead! Register here.

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BAO Land Acknowledgment

For thousands of years, Indigenous peoples inhabited and cared for this land, and continue to do so today. Brampton Arts Organization is located on the Treaty Territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Huron - Wendat; Haudenosaunee. Brampton resides within Treaty 19 and is referred to as the Ajetance Purchase. BAO recognizes the Indigenous peoples whose names were not recorded have travelled through and cared for this territory from time immemorial. We acknowledge and respect that all life comes from the land and that we must also care for this land and all life that inhabits this land.

We recognize the enduring presence of First Nations, Metis, Inuit on Turtle Island and strive to deepen our own understanding of the host Nations on whose territory we reside and we encourage all those that now call Brampton home to learn about the history and respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. We are grateful for the opportunity to grow our families on this land and promise to care for the waters, the sky and all beings looking Seven Generations ahead.