cSPACE Celebrates High Points
at Report to Community

June 27, 2023

cSPACE Projects believes in the power of the creative class to act as essential contributors to vibrant cities. Our recent Report to Community event was a resounding success celebrating that impact, and we are thrilled to share the highlights of this unforgettable evening with you.

First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our gracious host, Priscilla Cherry of The Oratory. One of cSPACE Eau Claire’s first resident artists, Priscilla’s warmth and charm set the tone for the entire event. Her genuine enthusiasm and passion for our community made the night truly special. 

A crucial moment of the evening came with the land acknowledgement by Calgary’s current Poet Laureate, Wakefield Brewster. It was a poetic and personal tribute to the Indigenous peoples on whose land we live and work, reminding us of the importance of acknowledging and honouring their history and ongoing contributions.

Board Chair Greg Glark kicked off the formal part of the evening with his inspiring words, setting the stage for an evening filled with thought-provoking discussions and raucous performances.

President and CEO Deeter Schurig presented an incredible report, showcasing the milestones and achievements of the past year including:

• cSPACE Marda Loop’s studios and co-working space continues to be 100% leased by artists, non-profits, and creative entrepreneurs
• Since October 2022, cSPACE Eau Claire has been host to 15 exciting artist-in-residencies, including inaugural artist Kenna Burima (Write a Song With Burima), Tory Manywounds (Rooted), and Bryan Faubert (MaSH-UP)
• cSPACE Marda Loop’s theatre, event, and exhibition spaces boasted 450 total events
• New illuminated signage was installed with the help of generous gifts from the Rozsa Foundation and an anonymous donor

The progress we’ve made as a community would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our patrons and partners including the Calgary Foundation, Calgary Arts Development, the City of Calgary, and individual donors. 

The event wouldn’t have been complete without the compelling insights from our guest panelists Dwight Farahat from Tribe Artist Society and Bethel Afework from The Alcove Centre for the Arts. Both of these ambitious placemakers are part of the current Creative Spaces Mentoring Network program. This partnership between cSPACE Projects and ArtsBuild Ontario matches managers of creative arts spaces with experienced mentors for a year of knowledge sharing and network building. The Alcove Centre for the Arts was not only in residence at cSPACE Eau Claire recently, but is now also one of the first organizations to find a temporary home via the current Space Pilot program. Dwight and Bethel shared their experiences and perspectives on the role of art in community building. Their words resonated deeply, leaving everyone inspired and energized.

Of course, the night wouldn’t be complete without music, and we were treated to two phenomenal performances. Inspired stories and singing from Indigenous hand drum phenomenon Chubby Cree brought the formal part of the event to a powerful close. And 2021 Creative Incubator Initiative alumni Memphis & the Grande turned the audience into dancers with their country inspired rock and roll, reminding us of the universal language of music that unites us all.

Thanks to Forage catering as well for the delicious spread offered during the casual meet and greet afterwards.

In conclusion, the Report to Community event was a true celebration of creative entrepreneurship and vibrant community building at cSPACE Projects. We extend our sincerest thanks to everyone who made this event possible – from our talented performers and panelists to our dedicated staff and volunteers. Together, we continue to pave the way for a greener, more vibrant, and interconnected creative class. Let’s keep building and creating together! 

#CommunitySuccess #ArtisticVisionaries #TogetherWeThrive