Access Gallery, Vancouver

Founded in 1991 and nestled in the heart of Vancouver's historic Chinatown, Access Gallery stands as an artist-run hub. Its mission revolves around nurturing and showcasing emerging artists, curators, and cultural innovators, particularly those embarking on novel experimental journeys in their artistic endeavors. By fostering profound dialogues and embracing bold risks, Access Gallery reconfigures the relationship between audience, creators, and the community. In this regard, the gallery holds a distinct and pivotal role within Vancouver's cultural tapestry.

A notable facet of Access Gallery is its propensity to frequently host debut solo exhibitions for artists. Notably, it has been a launching pad for numerous prominent Canadian contemporary artists, propelling them into the spotlight during the nascent stages of their careers. This dual-pronged approach empowers artists with expanded visibility and dialogue within the community while affording the community itself the privilege of engaging with fresh artistic perspectives through audacious and captivating programming.

The gallery spearheads an annually dynamic and ambitious lineup of exhibitions and publications. One of its latest ventures, the mobile artist residency "Twenty-Three Days at Sea," has also embarked on its journey. Furthermore, Access Gallery extends its influence through outreach initiatives, involving collaborations at local, national, and international levels. These initiatives encompass an array of activities such as talks, performances, screenings, readings, workshops, guided tours, and symposia. Rooted in a commitment to representing a diverse spectrum of artistic disciplines and addressing pertinent cultural and socio-political matters of our contemporary world, Access Gallery's programming has garnered recognition both at home and on the global stage.