The Need for a Community of Practice and Care in the Far North Arts Sector

The arts sector in the Kenora-Kiiwetinoong district (part of Ontario’s Far North region) faces a host of historical and ongoing challenges that have left its artists marginalized and underfunded. From systemic barriers to geographic isolation, Indigenous and rural artists in the Far North face unique struggles that hinder their ability to access resources, build sustainable careers, and thrive in the arts industry. Rather than focusing solely on the establishment of new non-profit organizations, the critical need in the Far North is the creation of a community of practice and care—a supportive network that fosters collaboration, shares resources, and nurtures the artistic development of the region's artists.

The concept of a community of practice and care emphasizes the importance of building a collective ecosystem where artists, mentors, and supporters come together to offer mutual support, share knowledge, and actively work toward dismantling the barriers that have historically hindered artistic growth. This community would be rooted in the values of care, reciprocity, and collaboration, acknowledging that the arts are not just about individual success but about building a sustainable, thriving ecosystem for all artists in the region.

Why a Community of Practice and Care?

The arts sector in the Far North is shaped by its geography, culture, and history. In a region as vast and remote as the Kenora-Kiiwetinoong district, artists often face not only practical challenges such as isolation and limited access to resources, but also systemic inequities that affect the availability and distribution of funding. With the Ontario Arts Council (OAC) allocating a disproportionately small amount of funding to this region, and with few administrative or institutional structures to support artists, the need for a community of practice and care becomes clear. A shift in focus toward a collaborative, community-driven approach is crucial for addressing these issues in a meaningful and sustainable way.

The arts in the Far North are also deeply connected to Indigenous traditions and cultural practices. However, the region’s artists, especially Indigenous ones, often face barriers that are not only logistical but also tied to the impacts of colonialism and systemic racism. A community of practice and care would provide a safe and supportive environment for artists to share their work, build solidarity, and push back against these historical injustices. It would also create a space where the arts could be understood as a vital part of cultural healing and revitalization, helping Indigenous artists reconnect with their traditions while navigating contemporary artistic expression.

Elements of a Community of Practice and Care

A community of practice and care in the Far North would need to address the following key areas to ensure that it provides meaningful support to artists:

1. Mutual Support and Collaboration: One of the cornerstones of a community of practice is the ability to offer mutual support and to collaborate. For Far North artists, working in isolation is a common experience due to geographic and logistical challenges. This community would offer a space for artists from diverse communities to come together, share ideas, and collaborate on projects. Whether through virtual meet-ups or regional gatherings, creating opportunities for artists to work together would be essential in building a strong, supportive network.

2. Sharing Resources and Knowledge: A community of practice thrives on the sharing of resources and knowledge. In the Far North, many artists struggle to access essential resources such as grant-writing support, equipment, or mentorship. A key element of the community would be the development of shared resource networks—such as pooled funding, equipment exchanges, and access to professional development opportunities. Additionally, experienced artists could serve as mentors, sharing their skills and knowledge with emerging artists, thereby creating a cycle of learning and growth.

3. Building Collective Advocacy: Advocacy is a central part of fostering systemic change. A community of practice and care would be positioned to advocate for fairer distribution of funding, better access to resources, and increased visibility for the Far North’s artists. By coming together as a collective, artists in the region would have a stronger voice when advocating for policies that support their work and ensure equitable access to funding and opportunities. This collective advocacy could extend to local, provincial, and national levels, addressing the ongoing disparities in arts funding and support for rural and Indigenous artists.

4. Capacity Building and Sustainable Careers: Capacity building is essential for long-term sustainability in the arts. A community of practice and care could offer workshops, training, and mentorship programs that help artists build the practical skills necessary for their careers—whether in art-making techniques, business practices, or marketing. These programs would not only support individual growth but would help to build a more resilient and adaptable arts sector in the region, enabling artists to sustain themselves financially and professionally.

5. Cultural Preservation and Empowerment: The arts are a powerful tool for cultural preservation and empowerment, particularly for Indigenous artists who work within the context of revitalizing traditional practices. A community of practice and care would prioritize the amplification of Indigenous voices and the preservation of Indigenous cultures through art. This would include spaces for cultural exchange, storytelling, and the passing down of traditions, while also supporting contemporary expressions of Indigenous identity. The community would encourage Indigenous artists to reclaim their narratives and take pride in their cultural heritage, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment.

Conclusion

The arts sector in the Kenora-Kiiwetinoong district and broader Far North region requires more than just additional funding or new organizational structures. It needs a community of practice and care that actively fosters mutual support, collaboration, and collective advocacy, while also offering the practical resources and mentorship necessary for artists to thrive. This community-driven approach would enable artists to build stronger networks, share resources, and advocate for the systemic changes required to ensure equitable access to funding and opportunities.

By focusing on the development of a supportive arts ecosystem that prioritizes collaboration, care, and cultural revitalization, the Far North can create a sustainable and vibrant arts sector that empowers Indigenous and rural artists, preserves cultural traditions, and contributes to the broader cultural landscape of Ontario. This community-based approach is the key to addressing the inequities that have long plagued the Far North’s arts community, and to ensuring that future generations of artists can thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and supportive environment.