The Reach Gallery Museum’s vigorous Emerge program got a significant financial lift to grow and support the development of emerging artists in the Fraser Valley.
In presenting the $7,500 donation during The Reach’s spring exhibitions opening, Jodi O’Hara, RBC Royal Bank Assistant Branch Manager, Sevenoaks, said this: “At RBC, we feel that the arts encourage a culture of creativity and innovation, and helps foster diversity and inclusion in our communities. We developed the RBC Emerging Artists Project to assist artists when they need it most – at the earliest stages of their careers.”
“The RBC Emerging Artists Project is proud to continue supporting Emerge at The Reach, which showcases outstanding emerging talent as they bridge the gap from the academic world to career.”
On receiving the Emerge funding support, Laura Schneider, Executive Director at The Reach responded: “We can’t express how important it is to have the support of a backer like RBC in our efforts to encourage the growth and professionalization of our cultural community. As these aspiring professionals graduate from university and begin their careers, we hope to be able to provide the kind of skill development and understanding of the field that will propel them to future success. Through support like this, RBC is doing a tremendous job making their commitment to culture known.”
In 2015, The Reach initiated a program called Emerge @The Reach. Emerge exists for artists and those interested in the arts, ages 18-35. Its structure is a gallery within a gallery which offers regular exhibitions at The Reach, curating and publishing opportunities, hands-on professional development experiences, networking opportunities and a platform from which to impact the arts and culture sector in the Fraser Valley. It provides Emerge members with mentorship and access to professional development initiatives including skill-based workshops and one-on-one sessions with industry specialists. Because of the program, some Emerge members have already gone on to exciting employment and educational opportunities. The crucial support from the RBC Emerging Artists Project ensures the program’s growth and sustainability.
Emerge @The Reach will also host a rockin’ cool Emerge fundraiser this fall at The Reach. Visit thereach.ca/emerge or call 604-864-8087.
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