First Public Forum

What an amazingly successful first meeting for Critical Mass last night! The patio of Zest Bar and Bistro was a-buzz, with over 80 people in attendance. Considering the rather impromptu nature of our invitation, and the short notice, it was a remarkable turnout and a good indicator of the excitement people feel when they hear the details of this project. Particularly gratifying was the wide age range of those in attendance, highlighting the broad appeal of this project.

Thanks to all who attended, and also to those who could not attend, but who have expressed interest.

We plan to have similar open forums in the near future, in other locations in Northumberland.

What Critical Mass proposes is ambitious, but at the same time, is of a scale that we believe can be achieved. After last night, we know that we have the support of hearts and minds. But we'll need support of a more concrete nature as well, if this is to become a reality, and a catalyst for the cultural and economic vitality of Northumberland. Fundraising is now of prime importance, and we are off to a great start!

Comments welcome, or contact us directly:  criticalmassart(at)gmail(dot)com

We are a group of artists, curators and arts supporters who propose to create a new, not-for-profit centre for contemporary art in Northumberland County, a beautiful region one hour east of Toronto, Canada.

  -->

Critical Mass: a size, number or amount large enough to produce a particular result.

 <in socioeconomics: The critical mass of activity needed such that the rate of adoption becomes self-sustaining and creates further growth.>

 

-->

Vision and Mandate

Critical Mass will be a not-for-profit nexus for the production, presentation and interpretation of contemporary art. Critical Mass will be located in an accessible, highly visible space in the Heritage Business District of Port Hope. Critical Mass will be a laboratory which will seek, initiate, develop and direct a spectrum of engaging activities, including contemporary art exhibitions, installation art, performance art, lectures and screenings, classes and workshops. Critical Mass will also provide artist studios, including a print studio, to visiting artists and for local artists through community membership and participation. Critical Mass will engage in a publication program to ensure creation of archival records of artistic activity in the facility, and to support the creation of artist books and ephemera. An innovative Artist in Residence program will provide an opportunity for New Generation Artists, as well as established Canadian and International artists to stay and work in Northumberland County for periods ranging from one to three months. Critical Mass will support artists’ rights through the payment of professional fees according to the CARFAC fee schedule. 

In the belief that arts are integral to community development, Critical Mass will be a catalyst for economic and cultural vitality in Northumberland County and the surrounding area.

Talk to us.... criticalmassart(at)gmail(dot)com
or leave a comment here.