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All Cambridge Public Library locations will be closed October 11th and 12th for Thanksgiving.

For Artists

eye artwork on queen's square

Call for Volunteers - Cambridge Public Library's Gallery Advisory Committee

Cambridge Public Library is seeking expressions of interest for volunteers to form the Gallery Advisory Committee (GAC) in 2026. Volunteers sought are practicing artists and/or cultural professionals who reside in Waterloo Region and have knowledge of the cultural field with enthusiasm for community engagement and connection. Volunteers will meet three times a year to discuss scheduled Cambridge Art Galleries programming (exhibitions, events, education and public programs), provide feedback and share insights on trends in art and culture, recommend partnerships and outreach opportunities, and act as ambassadors in the community. The GAC will function in an advisory capacity only, with no fiduciary or decision-making powers.

Apply online by July 5, 2026 through our Vome Volunteer Portal.


Advocacy and Resources

ArtsBuild Ontario

ArtsBuild Ontario (ABO) is a provincial arts service organization that provides small and medium-sized organizations with tools, training, and advice to successfully manage physical and digital creative spaces. Learn more about ABO.

Art Installers Alliance (AIA)

A community project to inform and empower art installers and other contracted arts workers to support safer work processes, and self advocacy for fair, just and accountable workplace conditions and sector change. Learn more about AIA. 

Artist-Run Centres and Collectives Conference (ARCA)

The online directory introduces artist-run centres in Canada and provides basic information. Learn more about ARCA and the search Directory. 

CARFAC

CARFAC is the national voice of Canada’s professional visual artists. Check out Tools for Artists.

CoBALT Connects

A non-profit social enterprise that works throughout Ontario to spur innovative projects, policies, research and facilities that advance the creative industries and cultural sector. Learn more about their initiatives. 

Cultural Human Resources Council

The Cultural Human Resources Council (CHRC) brings together cultural workers and employers to address training, career development and other human resource issues. Learn more about CHRC.

Galeries Ontario / Ontario Galleries (GOG)

Through advocacy, professional development, and network-building, GOG advances and empowers Ontario public art galleries. Learn about different opportunities and resources by visiting their website. 

MANO/RAMO

MANO/RAMO | Media Arts Network of Ontario is Ontario's only arts service organization dedicated to furthering the work of media arts organizations, collectives and independent artists. Learn more about MANO/RAMO by visiting their website.

Visual Arts Alliance 

The Visual Arts Alliance is a consortium of national visual, media, and craft arts service organizations comprised of artists, curators, art museums, artist-run centres and art dealers, brought together by the Visual Arts Summit in November, 2007. Learn more by visiting their website. 


Helpful Resources

Artist Statement Basics

Writing about yourself can be tricky! Here are 3 basic principles to help get you started:

1. The What: What is your work? In simple terms discuss concepts, themes, and the medium you are working in.

2. The Why: Explain why you have created your work. This can include your inspirations and motivations.

3. The How: How does your current work fit into your overall artistic practice? Or, how does your work relate to the call for submissions?

Grant Writing Basics

Here are some writing tips we have gathered from our previous Grant Writing Workshops led by Isabella Stefanescu from Inter Arts Matrix

Tips

1. Read the guidelines!!! Are you eligible for the grant? Is your work eligible? Don't waste time applying for something you have no chance of receiving.

2. Does your project start after the results of the funding competition are announced?

3. Does your budget tally correctly? Ensure the expenses are equal to the income.

4. Can you meet the submission deadline?

5. Fill out the form - Do not leave blank fields. If a question does not apply to you, write "n/a" in the answer field.

6. Stick to the space/pages/word count allowed.

7. Number the pages of attachments.

8. Edit, revise, and edit again. Then have someone else read it over for you. Try to use plain language.

9. Do you have the correct number of application copies to submit (for paper submissions)?

10. If you include links to supporting materials, test them and make sure they work.

11. Keep copies of everything submitted.

Funders and Councils

Canada Council For The Arts

Canadian Media Fund

Craft Ontario

Guelph Arts Council

Hamilton Arts Council

KW Awesome Foundation

London Arts Council

Ottawa Arts Council 

Ontario Arts Council

Ontario Trillium Foundation

Region of Waterloo Arts Fund

Toronto Arts Council

Waterloo Region Community Foundation