Farewell. It means goodbye and more. It is wishing well. Acknowledging that paths diverging still carry on…there is movement in the word.
I’ve been extremely fortunate to work in, with, and for The Community Arts Council of Vancouver since January 2017. This role came with a sense of responsibility for a long legacy. As a recipient of a Community Arts Fund grant, and attendee at the 2016 Unconference, it was clear to me that CACV was an organization that walked its talk. A circle of community artists told stories from their projects, performed songs, shared videos and photos, and appreciated the chance to connect with each other. I didn’t know at that time I’d soon be organizing the circles and holding the space to build community capacity through the arts!
None of this happened alone. A huge wave of gratitude to the Board, staff, artists, volunteers, partners, and audiences that make it all happen, year after year.
This work happens where cracks let the light shine in. In the places there are gaps, a truth glimpsed, a vision peeking through, a story coming into being, outside the concert halls and big stages, the commercial galleries and museums. In community centres, libraries, alleys, schools, parks, curbside gardens, outdoor stages and multipurpose rooms all over Vancouver. It has been a privilege and an honor to play a part in bringing artists together with and in community. More than ever, the necessity of imagining our shared belonging in new shapes, fresh metaphors, and with all colours is clear and compelling. We are all constantly co-creating our world. Let’s do it with joy and intention.
CACV celebrates its 75th Anniversary this year! I look forward to seeing what comes next.
If you’d like to stay in touch, I can be reached at ericrhysmiller@gmail.com.
Thank you for supporting community arts in Vancouver. Take good care of each other.
Onward,
Eric