The Kingston Arts Council (KAC) is the region's primary resource for arts information and support. Through communications, programming, and advocacy, the KAC promotes the creation, development, and appreciation of the arts in Katarokwi/Kingston and supports artistic growth and engagement for arts organizations and artists at all levels of their careers. The KAC also administers key funding programs, the City of Kingston Arts Fund (CKAF) and Nan Yeomans Grant for Artistic Development. 

Mission

The Kingston Arts Council provides strategic leadership and services for the arts – as funder, leader, advocate, resource, and facilitator of opportunities – in Kingston and the surrounding area.

Grants

The KAC is responsible for administering the City of Kingston Arts Fund (CKAF) on behalf of the City of Kingston, which awards over $600,000 annually to artists, arts organizations, and collectives through Project and Operating Grants. The KAC also administers the Nan Yeomans Grant for Artistic Development, which awards $2,500 annually to one visual artist under the age of 40. Interested in applying? Contact KAC's Grants & Programs Coordinator, Violet Tang, to set up a meeting to learn more about our grants programs. We also maintain a database of other funding opportunities on our website. 

Programming

In our mission to provide strategic leadership and services for the arts, KAC programming focuses largely on offering professional development opportunities for arts workers and artists, and enabling generative conversations around issues of access, equity, diversity, and inclusivity. The KAC office houses the recently reactivated Unit 115 small exhibition space, which presently showcases artwork in partnership with local arts organizations. We also support the annual Mayor's Arts Awards which celebrates artistic achievement and contributions to the Katarokwi/Kingston arts sector.

Communications and Advocacy

The KAC promotes arts events in Katarokwi/Kingston through our Events Calendar and ArtsBuzz newsletter. Our YGK Arts Project features local artists across Katarokwi/Kingston bimonthly. Our Arts Job Board is regularly updated with opportunities in the arts in the Katarokwi/Kingston region. Additionally, the KAC conducts advocacy through campaigns and participation in a variety of groups, including the City's Arts Advisory Committee and as a member of the Alliance of Arts Councils of Ontario.