artspace issue:

Membership and Me

by Sekoiaa Lake

When I first joined Artspace, I do not think I fully understood what being a member of a not-for-profit, artist-run centre really meant. For Artspace to stay open and operate effectively, it relies on its members and volunteers, in addition to the grants from various funding bodies and fundraising events. Being a member certainly benefits "me" but it also helps Artspace fulfill "an important need for artists who seek a place to create, explore, test, present, and receive critical feedback on their work". Obviously, my commitment indicates that I support the centre and the work they do, but it also shows the funding bodies that Artspace provides a very important function to the community and to the region.

My fees are really just a drop in the bucket, but they do help cover the cost of the regular mailings, which provide advance notice of exhibition openings, screenings, performances and fundraising events. As a member, I also have access to available equipment and resources.

Being a member places a greater value on my relationship with Artspace and it encourages increased awareness, commitment, and involvement. I have voting privileges at the Annual General Meeting and I can serve on the Board of Directors and other committees. It's an ideal opportunity to express myself and to connect with, and learn from, other interesting, intelligent and creative people. We all play a crucial role in providing feedback, constructive criticism, suggestions, (and kudos!) to Artspace operations and programming. New ideas can serve to inject fresh innovative "blood" into any organization, and I know that Artspace welcomes and values my input.

There is a Native American proverb, which says, "Tell me and I'll forget. Show me and I may not remember. Involve me and I'll understand". I have no doubt that my involvement with Artspace has deepened my awareness and my understanding.