THE Nanaimo Arts Council is rising like a phoenix out of the ashes and rebuilding.
The organization is starting over after a fire on March 30 destroyed its office located in the historical Jean Burns Building.
“The insurance only covers the loss of property,” said Dana Smiley, exhibit coordinator and a Nanaimo Arts Council board member.
She said it’s taking a lot more time and resources to understand and complete the insurance claim, find a new space for the organization, procure needed equipment and maintain its services in the community. The organization relies heavily on volunteers. The only paid position is the executive director.
The council serves hundreds of local artists in the community and handles the administrative duties for various programs such as the Festival of Banners, Vancouver Island Short Film Festival, Islands Short Fiction Contest, Art Around Town and others.
“The Nanaimo Arts Council is a hub for the creative community,” said Jordan Johns, an NAC member and exhibit technician for the Nanaimo Museum.
The museum and arts council are partnering to present Out of the Ashes an exhibition and fundraiser for the organization.
The exhibit and silent auction fundraiser opening reception is Friday (April 22) from 6-8 p.m. at the Nanaimo Museum. The exhibit, featuring 16 pieces, runs until May 15 in the museum’s community exhibit space.
There will also be a donation bin for art supplies to be given to artist tenants of the Jean Burns Building.
arts@nanaimobulletin.com
