VANS works for the advancement of visual arts and artists of Nova Scotia.
VANS is a provincial artist-run organization incorporated in 1976 to serve visual artists. We promote and support the visual arts and artists of Nova Scotia by providing a voice and advocating for the rights of visual artists. We support our membership by providing exhibition, marketing and educational opportunities. The public frequently consults VANS about Nova Scotian artists.
VANS is a primary resource for artists, providing access to a community of peers. We foster excellence and lifelong learning in the arts.
programs and services
To achieve these goals, VANS offers the following programs and services:
visual arts news: A subscription to the oldest continous visual art publication in Atlantic Canada. The magazine, distributed nationally, is published 3 times/year with features, profiles, interviews, news and reviews primarily focusing on artists and the visual arts in Nova Scotia. Membership in VANS includes a subscription to the magazine. For further information visit www.visualartsnews.ca
exhibitions: Curated, juried, annual open exhibitions, Corridor Gallery, VANS in the Hub and regular regional exhibitions.
communications: VV (Virtual Vans) information on current opportunities for artists, VANS Matters, Artist Profiles, Facebook, Twitter, and Members’ News.
e-studio artist directory: A major collection of Nova Scotia’s working visual artists online.
workshops: Professional development workshops related to your career as an artist. Topics include: Portfolios, proposals, marketing, writing for the arts, digital imaging, web design and community art projects.
mentorship program: The VANS Mentorship Program is designed to support the individual artistic methods and professional ambitions of emerging artists in Nova Scotia by providing access to the skills and experience of selected mentors.
resource library: Reference materials on contracts, grants, residencies, tax law, copyright, commissions, competitions, etc. Also current information on exhibitions, jobs, etc. and lending copies of Canadian Art magazines.
PAINTS (Professional Artists in the Schools): This program enables schools throughout NS to bring professional artists working both in visual arts and fine crafts into their classrooms. For detailed information visit www.paintsns.ca
internships: Administrative work terms for art college students.
advocacy: Promotion of arts awareness in government, business, schools, media, and the general public.
funding
Core funding for VANS is provided by the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture & Heritage, with additional revenues generated through membership and program fees, project grants, fundraising, and magazine advertising, and the generous aid of sponsors and donors.
Assistance from the Cultural Activities program of the Culture Division of the Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage provided funds to renew our website and develop the artist e-studio directory.
patrons
Without the generosity of its many supporters, VANS could not offer such a wide range of programs and services.
VANS is registered as a charitable organization, and all donations are tax deductible. When filling in your membership form, please consider making a donation.
Sponsorship or legacy giving information relating to a particular VANS program or service is available from the office. For more information, please contact director@visualarts.ns.ca.
