EC3 CELEBRATES NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY ON JUNE 21ST WITH A SPECIAL SOCIAL MEDIA PROJECT CURATED BY WILLIAM KINGFISHER!

June 19th, 2026

National Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated annually on June 21, coinciding with the summer solstice. It is a dedicated time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, resilience, and diverse cultures of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada.

Each year, as part of our work to recognize National Indigenous History Month (see our Bulletin here), EC3 commissions a social media project featuring the work of two local Indigenous artists. This year distinguished artist and curator William Kingfisher has selected poet Thamer Linklater (Unweave – poem from their upcoming collection The Place I Called Home) and visual artist Ashley Street (She Faces West: The Red Dress) to highlight the outstanding contributions to our cultural like in Nogojiwanong made by local Indigenous artists. Both the artists that William has selected open our eyes to the impact of the past and the history of Indigenous people. We hope you enjoy getting to know these outstanding artists and their work!
 

NIPD 2026 EC3 Social Media Project

Curator: William Kingfisher

William Kingfisher is an independent arts curator, artist and gardener. He is a member of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, Rama. Kingfisher is presently the Associate Artistic Producer at Nozhem First People’s Performance Space, Indigenous Performance Initiatives, Trent University.  

As curator, for the ongoing project enaawendewin/relationships (2018-present), Kingfisher creates indigenous gardens as spaces of inquiry to explore a variety of themes and ideas such as, anishinaabe history and stories in contemporary times, anishinaabemowin, our relationship to the land and its cycles, the impact of colonialism in present times, the importance of traditional foods, making art materials from plants and the land, and the building of soil for growing healthy food. Recent projects include Cultivating as Inquiry, a performance with Lisa Myers and Thomas Olszewski (Grandfather’s Kitchen) that placed traditional foods and plants as the main actors, Chanie Wenjack Theatre, February 2026, Trent University. Consultant/artist for Lithic Life, a land art, pigment-gathering and paint-making project with Cole Swanson, Art Gallery of Peterborough, 2025-2026. Curatorial consultant for the Arthur Shilling painting, The Beauty of Our People, Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto, 2026. Consultant/artist for Mazinaw Rock Drawing Kinstillatory Project, with Kai Recollet, summer/fall 2026, Nozhem and University of Toronto. 

Curatorial Statement: Thamer Linklater

Unweave (2019)

What I like about Thamer’s work is how they are able to share their experience and challenges of being Nehiyaw/Cree in the complexity of contemporary society.  I have heard them share their poems in public gatherings with passion and understanding of the many struggles that Indigenous people face each day and this creates a crucial space for dialogue and healing.

Curatorial Statement: Ashley Street

She Faces West: The Red Dress (2025)

What I like about Ash Street’s project is both the artwork and the process that the artist used to create this piece. Inviting people to contribute and share in the process of creating She Faces West: The Red Dress by donating materials extends the project into a community space for dialogue, which is a crucial step to a better understanding and awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ people in Canada.  

Meet Thamer Linklater

Thamer Linklater is Asiniskaw Ithiniwak (Rocky Cree) from Nisichawayasihk (NCN) Cree Nation in Northern Manitoba. They work and reside in Nogojinawong/ Peterborough Ontario. They are a land defender, poet, artist and researcher. Their current work explores storytelling as a way of influencing change. When not engaged in research or writing, they enjoy reading, painting, drinking coffee, singing, and spending time with their partner and two pets.

Source: The artist

Unweave (2019)

Poem from their upcoming collection The Place I Called Home

We try rebuilding

homes       without floorplans

We try reknitting

families     without the pattern

We succeed because our blood knows

Despite us never seeing

a              finished house

a              blanket whole.

– Thamer Linklater

You can learn more about Thamer’s work on their website thamerlinklater.com

Meet Ash Street

Ash Street is a MichiSaagii Kwe and a member of Hiawatha First Nation. A community art project that began at the Peterborough Public Library led to international recognition, with the Red Dress installation selected for a prestigious artist residency in France. This work was created in recognition of Red Dress Day, Canada’s National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people. The installation invites viewers to pause, reflect, and bear witness to the lives lost while honouring the ongoing calls for justice, healing, and remembrance. 

Source: The artist and https://www.peterborough.ca/news/posts/red-dress-art-installation-leads-to-residency-in-france/
She Faces West: The Red Dress (2025), Ash Street, Peterborough City Hall (500 George St. N.)
She Faces West: The Red Dress (2025), Ash Street, Peterborough Public Library

We encourage everyone to take time to learn, reflect, and celebrate Indigenous cultures, histories, and artistic contributions. We thank curator William Kingfisher, along with featured artists Thamer Linklater and Ashley Street, for sharing their work and helping foster meaningful dialogue and understanding.

Keep an eye on EC3’s social media channels in the coming days as we showcase their work!

Read the full bulletin here

EC3 Bulletin: National Indigenous History Month

Resources for Learning, Reflection, and Action

June 11th, 2026

June is National Indigenous History Month, and June 21 marks National Indigenous Peoples Day. This month is an opportunity to learn more about the histories, cultures, languages, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, while also reflecting on the ongoing impacts of colonialism and the work that remains on the path toward truth and reconciliation.

“National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For generations, many Indigenous communities have gathered at this time to celebrate their cultures, languages, and traditions. The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, marking a time of renewal, connection, and celebration.” (Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, 2026.)

EC3 has gathered a collection of resources to help our community learn, reflect, celebrate, and engage throughout National Indigenous History Month. We encourage everyone to explore these resources, support Indigenous artists and organizations, and continue contributing to meaningful action toward truth and reconciliation throughout the year.

LEARN

These resources provide opportunities to learn more about Indigenous histories, cultures, languages, and experiences across Canada.
Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action
In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its final report including the 94 Calls to Action. These recommendations continue to provide a roadmap for governments, organizations, institutions, and individuals seeking to advance reconciliation. We encourage everyone to read and reflect on these calls to action and consider how they can contribute to meaningful change.
National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21 was officially established in 1996 as National Aboriginal Day following years of advocacy from Indigenous leaders and organizations. In 2017, the day was renamed National Indigenous Peoples Day. Learn more about the history and significance of this day through this Government of Canada resource.
Government of Canada Indigenous Learning Portal
The Government of Canada offers a comprehensive collection of educational resources exploring Indigenous histories, cultures, languages, treaties, and contemporary experiences.
CARFAC Indigenous Protocols for the Visual Arts
Canadian Artists’ Representation (CARFAC) has developed a series of resources and toolkits for artists, curators, arts administrators, and programmers to support respectful engagement with Indigenous artists, communities, and cultural practices. The Ontario Arts Council’s Indigenous Arts Protocols video is also an excellent companion resource.
Native Land Digital
Explore Indigenous territories, treaties, and languages through Native Land Digital’s interactive map. This resource helps users better understand the Indigenous peoples whose traditional territories they live and work on.
WATCH, READ & LISTEN

Explore Indigenous stories, perspectives, and artistic expression through film, music, documentaries, and podcasts.
National Film Board Indigenous Cinema
The National Film Board offers a wide collection of Indigenous-made and Indigenous-focused films available for streaming. Their Indigenous Filmmaker in Residence program also highlights emerging voices and contemporary storytelling.

TVO Indigenous Collection
TVO’s Indigenous History and Perspectives collection features documentaries, interviews, educational resources, and programming that explores Indigenous experiences across Canada. This curated collection of documentaries and docu-series reflects Indigenous voices, histories, and perspectives from across the country and offers valuable opportunities for learning and reflection.

CBC Gem Indigenous Stories Collection
Celebrate National Indigenous History Month through CBC Gem’s collection of Indigenous-led films, documentaries, and series. The featured programming showcases Indigenous storytelling and offers opportunities to learn from diverse voices and experiences across the country.

CBC Indigenous Music Spotlight
Discover contemporary Indigenous musicians and artists featured by CBC, showcasing emerging and established voices from diverse Indigenous communities across Canada.

Reading for Reconciliation
CBC’s Reading for Reconciliation resources highlight books and stories that encourage deeper understanding of Indigenous experiences, histories, and cultures.

HEALING

The following organizations provide culturally grounded support services and resources for Indigenous individuals, families, and communities:

Talk4Healing. A free, confidential, and culturally grounded helpline available 24 hours a day for Indigenous women throughout Ontario.

Hope for Wellness Helpline. Provides immediate mental health counselling, crisis intervention, and emotional support for Indigenous peoples across Canada.

Native Women’s Association of Canada’s Elder Support Line. Available Monday-Friday 9AM-11AM EST & 1PM-3PM EST, Canada-wide. Call 1-888-664-7808.

National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s Supports for Survivors, including support lines across Canada. Call 1-888-301-6426 in Ontario.

Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program, offered by the Government of Canada as part of the Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement: 1-866-925-4419

Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle provides counselling and healing services for Indigenous women and their families.

SUPPORT

Canada Helps offers a list of Indigenous charities that you can support with your donations. Browse and support Indigenous organizations working in areas including community development, education, culture, health, youth programming, and reconciliation. 

Local organizations include:
• Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre
• Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle
• Peterborough Native Learning Program

For more information, please contact:
Shelley Knott, City of Peterborough Indigenous Relations Advisor: Sknott@peterborough.ca

JOIN IN

National Indigenous History Month offers many opportunities to learn, celebrate, and connect with Indigenous communities both locally and across Canada.

Peterborough National Indigenous History Month Events

The City of Peterborough is recognizing National Indigenous History Month with a series of free events, educational opportunities, cultural programming, and community celebrations throughout June.

As part of National Indigenous History Month, community members are invited to attend a National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration at:
National Indigenous People’s Day Celebration: Nicholls Oval Park, June 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 
Programming will include drumming and dancing demonstrations, Indigenous vendors, a sacred fire, and a strawberry ceremony at noon. The event is presented by the Urban Indigenous Working Group in partnership with organizations including the Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre, Trent University, Fleming College, and other local community partners.
Strawberry Moon beading: PPL, Saturday, June 20 at 1 p.m.
Bead an Ode’min Giizis (strawberry moon) themed pin while learning about seed bead embroidery. After beading, you’ll learn how to finish or edge your pin and secure the backing for a finished look. Please register through the library’s calendar at ptbolibrary.ca.
Adult Book Club: PPL, Tuesday, June 23 at 6:30 p.m.
All the Quiet Places, by Brian Thomas Isaac. In-person discussion takes place at 2 p.m. and at 6:30 p.m. online. Registration for either the in-person or online event can be done online through the library’s calendar at ptbolibrary.ca.
BIPOC Book Club: PPL, Sunday, June 21 at 2 p.m. 
Firekeeper’s Daughter, by Angeline Boulley. Register for the entire series through the library’s online calendar at ptbolibrary.ca.
Tween Book Club: PPL, Thursday, June 18, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.  
Mascot, by Charles Waters and Traci Sorell. 
Film Screenings for Truth and Reconciliation: PPL
Attend a film screening exploring Indigenous–settler relationships in the Friends of the Library Community Room.  
Spirit: PPL, Thursday, June 11, 6:30 p.m. 
Spirit, a young mustang, sets out across the majestic wilderness to regain his freedom and save his homeland. This film is rated G and open to everyone. 
National Indigenous History Month Events Across Ontario
The Government of Canada maintains a province-wide listing of Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day events taking place throughout Ontario.

We encourage everyone to take time this month to learn, reflect, celebrate Indigenous cultures, and support Indigenous artists, organizations, and communities. Reconciliation is an ongoing commitment, and every step toward greater understanding helps build stronger and more inclusive communities.

Be sure to keep an eye on EC3’s social media channels throughout the month, where we’ll be highlighting Indigenous artists, sharing their work, and celebrating the contributions they make to our local arts and culture community.

Read the full article here

Read the full bulletin here!

EC3 Bulletin: National AccessAbility Week

June 4th, 2026

EC3 AND THE COUNCIL FOR PERSON’S WITH DISABILITIES (CPD) MARK NATIONAL ACCESSABILITY WEEK.
EC3 and CPD have joined forces on a special project to draw attention to two local artists who live with disabilities and to whom accessibility in the arts is crucial. Poet P.J. Thomas is a published writer and visual artist Lynda Todd is an award-winning painter. These artists make invaluable contributions to our community as creators and as leaders. Please check out their work on our Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ElectricCityCultureCouncil/ and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ec3ptbo/. Watch for their exhibitions and readings.

Check out the Council for Persons with Disabilities website here: https://www.pcpd.ca/ and EC3’s Art of Inclusion resources on our website here: https://www.ecthree.org/program_category/art-of-inclusion/ .

Please think about how you and/or your organization can make the arts more accessible to artists and audiences alike, and act now!

Read about National AccessAbility Awareness Week here:

“National AccessAbility Week takes place every year, starting on the last Sunday in May.

For 2026, join us from May 31 to June 6 to celebrate and promote:

  • the valuable contributions and leadership of persons with disabilities in Canada
  • the work of allies, organizations and communities that are removing barriers
  • ongoing efforts to become a more accessible and disability-inclusive Canada
  • This year’s National AccessAbility Week theme is “Building a Strong, Accessible Canada.”
  • It invites all of us, including governments, businesses, organizations, and individuals, to take action to advance a barrier-free country. Significant progress has been made to eliminate and prevent barriers, and by continuing to work together, we can build a truly accessible, inclusive and equitable Canada.
  • Our country is stronger when persons with disabilities can participate fully in all aspects of society.
  • Together, we can empower each other and make a meaningful impact.”

Peterborough is celebrating NAAW with a variety of activities, check out Council for Persons with Disabilities (CPD) Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ptbocpd/ for a calendar of events.

CPD is also celebrating its fifth annual Capable Con on Saturday June 06 from 10:00-2:00 at Quaker Park, join us for entertainment, activities, venders and much more.  Check out the Farmer’s Market at the same time for some locally grown produce.

The Council for Persons with Disabilities is proud of our partnerships throughout the community, these include a variety of accessibility related organizations, services and businesses along with our friends from the Arts community, LGBTQ2SAA and the amazing people from the KPRDSB and PVNCCDSB. We wish you all a prosperous year and hope your National AccessAbility Week is a great success.

Please check out the City of Peterborough’s celebration activities here: https://www.peterborough.ca/news/recreation-parks-and-culture/.

Read the full bulletin here!

EC3 Bulletin: Chelsea Day and Marcela Moreno join the EC3 Staff. Gabe Pollock says goodbye!

May 12, 2026
Photo Credit: Chelsea Day Image Description: Standing in front of a brick wall, a young woman with long dark wavy hair and bangs looks toward the camera with a soft smile. They are wearing a light coloured fuzzy sweater and layered necklaces.
Photo Credit: Chelsea Day
Image Description: Standing in front of a brick wall, a young woman with long dark wavy hair and bangs looks toward the camera with a soft smile. They are wearing a light coloured fuzzy sweater and layered necklaces.

EC3 is honoured to welcome Chelsea Day as our Director of Granting. A costume designer and stylist living in Peterborough/Nogojiwanong,  she has been involved in the theatre community working with 4th Line Theatre, Electric City Players and The Peterborough Theatre Guild.

Chelsea holds a degree in English Literature from Trent University as well as a Diploma in Library Technology. Her sensitivity to artists’ needs, excellent communication skills, and strong ability to manage systems make her an excellent fit for this position.

Chelsea is a familiar face to many after having worked in customer service for downtown businesses and restaurants for over 20 years. She is passionate about the Peterborough arts and culture community and is looking forward to working to sustain and continue to grow this community through her work with EC3.
Photo Credit: Marcela Moreno
Image Description: A young woman with her dark curly hair pulled back smiles brightly at the camera. They are wearing hoop earrings and a light beige top, posing in front of a softly lit neutral background.

EC3 is honoured to welcome Marcela Moreno as our Operations and Administration Manager. A communications professional based in Peterborough/Nogojiwanong, originally from El Salvador. She moved to Peterborough three years ago and quickly developed a strong connection to the city’s arts and culture community, finding a sense of belonging through its galleries, events, and creative spaces. Marcela holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Trent University, specializing in Marketing and Consumer Culture.

Marcela brings experience across nonprofit, educational, and private-sector environments, supporting organizational operations, communications, and community engagement initiatives. Her knowledge of systems and data management are a true asset to our work at EC3.

Creativity has always been central to Marcela’s life. From a young age, she has been drawn to creative expression and now uses marketing and communications as an extension of that creativity to support the organizations where she works. Marcela is passionate about the role arts and culture play in building community and is excited to contribute to strengthening and supporting the local cultural sector through her work with EC3.
EC3 is grateful to our funders who made it possible to hire such qualified individuals, and we know you will enjoy working with them.

EC3 is Hiring a Multimedia Archivist

April 29, 2026
JOB POSTING
MULTIMEDIA ARCHIVIST
Electric City Culture Council (EC3)

Posting date: April 28, 2026
Deadline for applications: June 5, 2026
Compensation: $21 per hour, 35 hours per week
Term: This is an 8-week position starting July 6 (flexible) –
Location: This is primarily a remote work from home position with occasional meetings at the EC3 offices.
Age qualification: The position is funded through Canada Summer Jobs for anyone aged 30 or under.

ABOUT EC3
A municipal arts council, the Electric City Culture Council (EC3) is a not-for-profit arts service organization supporting the development of individual artists and arts and culture organizations in Peterborough and Peterborough County. Our programs and services provide opportunities for artists to create, produce, and present work, and for audiences to experience and appreciate the arts.

DEI: EC3 is committed to diversity and inclusiveness. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

OVERVIEW
After ten years of delivering successful programming and services, EC3 is creating a digital platform called EC3 Backdrop for our web site documenting our history and development, consolidating and rationalizing the video, audio, photographic and text documentation of our workshops, festivals, radio programs, special events and reports on granting and other programs. EC3 is anxious to capture and clearly identify all our essential landmarks and map a landscape that makes them accessible to researchers, professionals developing policy, artists and the general public.

JOB DUTIES
Reporting to the Executive Director, the multimedia archivist will join a team working together on EC3 Backdrop, the EC3 Fifteenth Anniversary Archiving and Cataloguing Project. Duties will include:

 Reviewing and cataloguing our photography archives – particularly Artsweek and Arts Awards
 Mapping the web site and creating a visual “connections tree”
 Cataloguing social media content from the past 5 years
 Cataloguing EC3’s You Tube channels content
 Locating and identifying content of other photos, video recordings and audio recordings in the EC3 archives
 Interviewing key stakeholders, including former board, staff and volunteers regarding event details as required
 Organize and review an EC3 Backdrop beta model
 Correct for accessibility etc.
 Plan the design and digital management of all archival material on an ongoing basis
 Plan and deliver launch of EC3 Backdrop as a practical and accessible ongoing archival system that works for a variety of potential users

QUALIFICATIONS
 Excellent organizational, written and oral communications skills.
 Demonstrated ability to set and meet goals, objectives and deadlines.
 Ability to work on a team and independently.
 Familiarity with computer programs including Office Suite, social media platforms, and web site construction and maintenance (Word Press).
 Knowledge of archiving tools and database management is an asset.
 Knowledge of the arts and the local arts sector is an asset.

HOW TO APPLY
Email a resume and letter that expresses why you would like to do this job and how your experience makes you a good candidate.

Send to canadasummerjobs@gmail.com with the subject heading Multimedia Archivist.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: JUNE 5 AT 5PM.

Participate in Peterborough’s Municipal Cultural Plan

April 17, 2026
Follow this link to learn more about the Municipal Cultural Plan. Take the community questionnaire, sign up to attend the listening sessions, organize your own planning conversation and more.

EC3 Bulletin: Canadian Arts Coalition

March 26, 2026
EC3 advocates for the arts at all levels of government. Our work has included supporting the status of the artist through direct funding, basic income programs, stronger copyright laws, and increased investment in the government programs that support arts organizations and DEI initiatives in the arts. While we continue to advocate at the municipal and provincial levels at the City of Peterborough, the OAC and the provincial Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, we wanted to draw attention to the advocacy work of Canadian Coalition for the Arts, working at the federal level, by sharing their recent newsletter.

EC3 also had an opportunity to meet briefly with MP Emma Harrison to discuss the mission and mandate of the arts council, and the value and importance of funding programs at Canadian
Heritage. Our MP suggested that arts organizations advise her office when they do make an application to the federal government for funding. We look forward to future conversations.
Emma Harrison, Member of Parliament representing Peterborough, Ontario
Picture description: A woman with brunette hair in a tan coloured pea-coat is looking directly at the camera and smiling. She is standing in a snowy field with trees in the background.
 
Read the full bulletin here!

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2025 Grants for Individual Artists!!
EC3’s GRANTS FOR INDIVIDUAL ARTISTS fueled 17 new projects by talented local artists, creating a diverse bounty of new writing, theatre, circus arts, visual arts, dance, music and more for Peterborough audiences.
The Electric City Culture Council (EC3) is proud to announce the 17 local artists who have been awarded a total of $35,250 through the 2025 Grants for Individual Artists program. This multidisciplinary program is funded jointly by the City of Peterborough and EC3, and is designed, delivered, and administered by EC3. This year, 50 artists applied for grants ranging from between $1,500 and $3,500.00. Grants are adjudicated and awarded by a five-person peer assessment jury.The Grants for Individual Artists (GFIA) program is divided into two components.

Component One: Mini Development Grants for Individual Professional Artists provides up to $1,500 to an artist for research, development, workshopping etc. of original new works and ongoing projects, as well as for professional training and mentorship opportunities to advance their practice. Funding provides a contribution to support artists’ work in writing, rehearsing, scripting, test filming, arranging scores, retraining, workshopping, etc.
Nine artists were awarded grants in Component One (total $12,750) in 2025.

Component Two: Project Creation, Production and Presentation Grants for Individual Professional Artists, provides up to $3,500 for the creation, production, and presentation to audiences of specific projects. Grants support costs such as artist fees, production materials, venue rentals, technical equipment, costumes, printing, etc.
Eight artists were awarded grants in Component Two (total $22,500) in 2025.

In total, the program’s open call received 45 eligible applications, and a five-member peer assessment jury awarded grants to 17 artists (total value of grants awarded: $35,250).  Artists working in every discipline, genre and medium were eligible, including those who work in multi-disciplinary or community-based arts practice, and in traditional or contemporary forms.  A complete list of grant recipients and their projects can be found below.

“We are particularly grateful to the City of Peterborough for their $25,000 support of this vital program in 2025, and to all of our funders for their ground-breaking contributions to the development of local talent and works of art. These investments in the efforts of our very talented and hardworking artists means more artists can realize their visions, contribute to our cultural, economic, community and social well-being, and make Peterborough a more vital and exciting place to live for all of us.  New books, poetry, concerts, plays, exhibitions, albums, and performances of all kinds will touch our hearts, minds, and imaginations.”
 –Su Ditta (Executive Director, EC3)
GRANTS FOR INDIVIDUAL ARTISTS 2025 GRANT RECIPIENTS
Component One: Mini Development Grants for Individual Professional Artists

Tia Cavanagh – Indian Jones vs. The Vatican
Research and creation of an alter ego persona – “Indian Jones”, an Indigenized concept inspired by Indiana Jones, for a planned future performance piece about the theft of cultural artifacts.

Marta Chudolinska – Babcia: a papercut graphic novel
Artist fees to continue writing, drawing, and making papercut art for a graphic novel and to present a public artists talk about the artist’s process.

Michael C Duguay – Here I Go Into The Wobbly Yonder
Support for a period of research and experimentation focused on the intersection of music and “processional” art in the contexts of composition, performance and documentation.

Laurie D Graham – What Elements
Completion of a draft of a poetic nonfiction manuscript exploring what “land and home” could mean for the settler subject.

Nicole Malbeuf – Drafting Art/Children’s Book: A Hen Called Freedom
Writing/editing, book design planning and researching self-publishing for art book/children’s book hybrid, based on an original circus arts performance.

Kasonde Mutale – Black Radical Existentialism: an exploration
Research, creation and artist fee for visual and written storytelling exploring Black radical existentialism through African traditional art, revitalizing Black identity, dignity and pride.

Kate Story – Strangeness on Earth (working title)
Paying sensitivity readers, youth readers, and an artist fee for work on a new young adult historical fantasy novel set in 1817 Newfoundland and Orkney.

Lynda Todd – Migration #3: Land, Air & Sea
Purchasing materials to complete a series of tactile portraits of polar bears, penguins, and whales accompanied by braille descriptions, inviting all to experience their journeys.

Gillian Turnham – Indelible Architecture: From The Rubble; Ruined Not
Researching visual records of destroyed Islamic heritage sites in the Eastern Mediterranean, to inform a series of traditional miniature paintings memorializing architecture lost in conflict.
Component Two: Project Production and Development Grants for Individual Artists

Brad Brackenridge – Pinocchio
Creation of an original, family-friendly adaptation of Pinocchio involving puppetry, dance, and mask for a short run of workshop performances at the Market Hall.

Brooklin Holbrough – “Art-Work” (Working title)
Artist fees towards a zine that aims to demystify art and illustration as a career path for emerging creatives.

Thamer Linklater – The Place I Called Home
Editorial costs ( including copy and content editing) and graphic design to submit manuscript for publishing, either traditionally or self-published.

Kayla Mahomed – Kay Silver Debut Album Recording
Recording an album of original material with diverse influences in the pop-rock tradition with local collaborators in the Peterborough region.

Ell Parker – Heartbreakers | Dream Makers Volume 3: Servin’ [C*ntry]
Artist fees and venue costs to mount a multidisciplinary, country themed drag concert at Sadleir House. Featuring local artists, drag queens, and projectionists, the event seeks to deconstruct the heteronormative ideologies of country music, and provide a fun and inclusive space for queer individuals.

Benj Rowland – new peasant marching band
Artist fees and production costs for a marching band offering lively, themed performances at community events to engage audiences and celebrate local culture.

Esther Vincent – Are We Sleeping, A one-act play
Artist fees, venue rental, and actor fees to present a staged reading of a one-act script about a family facing dementia.

Ziysah von Bieberstein – Before the Tymbals Sound
Editorial and artist fees to prepare manuscript for submission to traditional publishers.

Read the full bulletin here!

Chet Singh joins the EC3 Board of Directors

February 21st, 2026
EC3 is honoured to welcome artist, educator and cultural activist Chet Singh to the EC3 Board of Directors. An accomplished artist and educator, Chet brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our work as a municipal arts council in Peterborough. His deep community connections, capacity to work in institutional and grassroots environments, and passion for the arts and artists will provide an enormous asset to our organization and our work for the arts in Peterborough.
 

Chet Singh

Dub poet, educator and social activist Chet Singh emerged with the first wave of Caribbean dub poets in the early 1980’s. He fronted the punk, reggae band One Mind, comprised of Trent students. After returning to Nogojiwanong two decades later, he’s released 6 albums. A founding member of Canada’s Dub Poets Collective, he also served on the board of the Ontario Arts Council. His work advancing diversity, equity, decolonizing and critical education has been recognized with awards for teaching excellence and educational leadership.
Read the full bulletin here!

EC3 Bulletin: Black History Month

February 18th, 2026

February is Black History Month and EC3 wants to recognize and celebrate the many great events happening in our community, and the people who make them happen.
Each February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and celebrations that honour the legacy and contributions of Black people all across Canada, and in their particular local communities.

The 2026 theme for Black History Month is: “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.”

This month is an important opportunity to learn about and acknowledge these people and their often hidden histories and stories.

We invite all Canadians to learn more about Black Canadian communities, and how they continue to contribute to and help shape Canada.

Along with the celebrations, Black History Month is a call to recognize the things that have been lost, the stories that have been suppressed and the racism that has haunted many of these people and the communities that they live in. Much of the programming outlined below provides us with the unique opportunity to learn more, to experience more and to build our capacity as anti-racist allies. It’s a chance to read great books, learn new dances, listen to fabulous music, enjoy the artists and their work and learn more about our friends and neighbours.

Read the full bulletin here!

EC3 Receives 2026 Funding from the City of Peterborough

December 10th, 2025

The Electric City Culture Council (EC3) is grateful, and honoured to announce that Peterborough City Council approved $100,000 in operating funding in the 2026 City Budget this week, along with $25,000 towards Artsweek 2027. EC3 is delighted to report that City Council also restored $25,000 to the Grants to Individual Artists program for a total of $50,000 in 2026.

This funding assists EC3 in providing programs and services to the local arts community, including the Peterborough Arts Awards, Grants for Individual Artists, Artsweek, EC3 Poets in Residence Program, mentorships, Professional Development Workshops, research, education, information, and more.

All of these activities strengthen and advance the arts in Peterborough and contribute to our overall health and vitality as a community, attracting tourists, retaining businesses and in-demand professionals, supporting the downtown and contributing to our quality of life. 

For the full announcement see the EC3 Bulletin: https://mailchi.mp/ecthree/ec3-receives-2026-funding-from-the-city-of-peterborough

Posted in Bulletin

EC3 Receives Operating Grant From Ontario Arts Council, Thank YOU!

December 9th, 2025

The Electric City Culture Council (EC3) is pleased and honoured to announce that we received an Operating Grant for Arts Service Organizations (2025) of $17,600 from the Ontario Arts Council (OAC). EC3 continues to receive an outstanding rating from the OAC and is thankful for a 20% increase in our grant for this upcoming year.

The OAC is supported by the Government of Ontario. EC3 acknowledges Dave Smith, MPP and the Government of Ontario’s contribution to the Ontario Arts Council. Read the full Bulletin by following the link below. 

https://mailchi.mp/ecthree/ontario-arts-council-grant-for-ec3

Posted in Bulletin

Workshop Slides: Yes, You Can Write a Multi and Inter-Arts Project Grant Application!

December 3rd, 2025

You-Can-Write-a-Multi-and-Inter-Arts-Projects-Grant-Presentation-Slides

Follow this link to download the presentations slides from the November 27th, 2025 Professional Development Workshop: Yes, You Can Write a Multi and Inter-Arts Project Grant Application! with Adom Acheampong from the Ontario Arts Council, presented in Partnership with Public Energy Performing Arts.

Below are further resources EC3 has shared in past Professional Development Workshops.

Grant Writing 2.0 TIPs

Thinking of applying for an artist grant? Read these expert tips first | CBC Arts

Posted in EC3 Announcement

Canadian Arts Coalition: Arts Day on the Hill

December 2nd, 2025

Artists and Arts leaders from across Canada are converging on Ottawa this Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025, to advocate for the sector with political leaders. Chosen from applications across our membership, these individuals reflect the diversity of our sector and our country and share a common purpose – to ensure that the arts and culture sector is part of what makes Canada strong now and in the future.

Arts Day on the Hill is a national effort by the Coalition to ensure that artists from all parts of the sector and all regions of the Country can speak with one voice about vital issues that make us stronger through joint advocacy. While the landscape has changed over the past 20 years, the need for education and collaboration remains as important as ever, and we are grateful for the time and commitment of our volunteer advocates to support this effort.

Mark Carney’s government has made some excellent investments in its first budget in Fall 2025, primarily through funding for the Arts programs of Canadian Heritage and increased investment in the CBC, Telefilm, and other cultural institutions. However, the Canada Council for the Arts, which funds artistic activity and cultural outreach in every riding through funding for individual artists, arts organizations and groups, did not get its needed investment. The arts community is diverse, and the Canada Council is the best mechanism to ensure there is professional regional creativity and artistry that fuels the national conversation and helps Canada take its place on the international stage.

In addition to the welcome recent investments, the missing piece is the permanent investment of an additional $140 million in the Canada Council for the Arts and a move to permanently fund the arts programs of Canadian Heritage, helping Canada reach 1% of its annual spending on Arts and Culture.

#artsday2025 @emmaaharrisonmp @artscoalitionca

EC3 Recognizes Arts Day on the Hill

Today is Arts Day on the Hill, a national annual event organized by the Canadian Arts Coalition. This is an important advocacy initiative drawing attention to the high social and economic impact, value and importance of the arts and the critical importance of public funding for the arts, particularly at the federal level.

Volunteer arts leaders from across the country (including Katherine Carleton from Orchestras Canada and Chair of our own municipal Arts and Culture Advisory Committee) travel to Ottawa to meet with MPs. Please read all about it above.

Many arts organizations in Peterborough benefit from funding provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage (now Canadian Identity and Culture) or the Canada Council for the Arts. The Electric City Culture Council (EC3) receives much-needed and much-appreciated funding from the federal government for Artsweek, a grant that helps support the Festival every other year.

Individual artist in all disciplines, arts producers and presenters all benefit enormously from federal support for the arts.

All three levels of government support the arts in Peterborough, and that makes an extraordinary difference to the quality of life in this city.

https://canadianartscoalition.com/arts-day-on-the-hill-2025-20th-anniversary/

Posted in EC3 Announcement

Yes, You Can Write a Multi and Inter-Arts Project Grant Application!

November 20th, 2025

Where: Artspace, 3-378 Aylmer Street North, Peterborough, Ontario

When: Thursday, November 27th, 2025, at 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm EST

Cost: FREE

Meet your OAC Multi and Inter-Arts Grant Officer!

Adom Acheampong has extensive experience in the arts and culture sector, dedicating her career to supporting the growth and sustainability of artists and arts organizations. Currently, she serves as the Multi- and Inter-Arts and Community-Engaged Arts Officer at the Ontario Arts Council. Adom Acheampong has a formidable background in supporting the sustainability and recognition of multidisciplinary practices. Most recently, Adom was the Artistic and Professional Development Manager at Nia Centre for the Arts, Canada’s first multidisciplinary Black arts centre, where she spearheaded the development and presentation of multidisciplinary artistic programming. 

Read the full Bulletin here: https://mailchi.mp/ecthree/meet-your-oac-grant-officer

Posted in Bulletin

ELECTRIC CITY CULTURE COUNCIL (EC3) AND PUBLIC ENERGY (PE) PRESENT FREE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP ON GRANT WRITING FACILITATED BY ONTARIO ARTS COUNCIL

November 17th, 2025
Yes, You Can Write a Multi and Inter-Arts Project Grant Application!

Where: Artspace, 3-378 Aylmer Street North, Peterborough, Ontario

When: Thursday, November 27th, 2025, at 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm EST

Cost: FREE

Presented by: Public Energy Performing Arts, the Electric City Culture Council, and the Ontario Arts Council at Artspace
Join Public Energy Performing Arts (PE), the Electric City Culture Council (EC3), and the Ontario Arts Council (OAC) for a grant information session and grant writing workshop, focusing on the Ontario Arts Council’s Multi and Inter-Arts: Projects Program. 

See the Media Release here: https://mailchi.mp/ecthree/media-release-for-immediate-release

Posted in Media Release

Canadian Arts Coalition Applauds Elements of the Federal Budget (CAC)

November 6th, 2025

EC3 Shares the Canadian Arts Coalition’s Update on the Federal Budget, Published on November 4th

Quoting from the CAC below:

CAC Welcomes Steps Forward in Budget 2025 

Ottawa, ON — The Canadian Arts Coalition applauds elements of Budget 2025, which includes increased support for cultural and media programs, and stated recognition of the importance of arts, culture, and heritage to Canada’s economy, social fabric and identity. 

The Canadian Arts Coalition works on behalf of artists and cultural organisations to increase investment in the sector and to advise the government on policies that will positively impact both the sector and all of Canada. In the past two years, that focus has been a recommendation on two main investments: the Canada Council for the Arts and the Department of Canadian Heritage. Recently, the Coalition’s Campaign for Culture inspired over 50,000 letters to the government in support of that ask for new investment and no cuts to the Council, and we are pleased to see that the Government heard that message. 

We welcome the inclusion of new and renewed investments in many vital programs that serve artists and cultural organisations across Canada, such as the Canada Music Fund, Building Communities through Arts and Heritage, and the Canada Arts Presentation Fund.Communities will benefit from the increased investment in Heritage’s Celebration and Commemoration Program to support Canada Day celebrations, and Canadians will benefit from the opportunity provided through the Canada Strong Pass to visit their art galleries and museums.  The investment in Canada Summer Jobs will positively impact many cultural  organizations across the country as well as providing essential employment opportunities for young Canadians.  The Coalition also applauds the various important investments in media through the Canada Media Fund, the National Film Board, Telefilm Canada and the CBC, all committed to helping  tell the stories of Canada. These targeted investments will ensure that many artists, ensembles, festivals, and cultural institutions across the country receive the predictable funding they require to plan and thrive.

The Coalition also recognises that the Liberal government has acknowledged the importance of individual artistic creation through proposed changes to the Copyright Act to include an Artist’s Resale Right.  This ensures that Canadian visual artists benefit from future sales of their work. 

While we are pleased with the demonstrated commitment to the Arts and Culture sector there is still work to be done.  Budget 2025 does not yet adequately address the need for significant investment in the Canada Council for the Arts. The Canadian Arts Coalition will continue to work on behalf of its members and the sector to ensure that the Council’s role is recognised with appropriate funding for the benefit of all Canadians. 

However, the recognition of the arts  expressed in this budget,  along with the listed investments demonstrate that arts and heritage remain part of the national conversation, which we deeply welcome, and offer a foundation upon which further commitments can be built. We congratulate the Government on the positive initiatives in Budget 2025, and we commit to working constructively with ministers and parliamentary committees to continue to strengthen arts and culture in Canada.  

For more stay tuned to their News page: https://canadianartscoalition.com/news/

Posted in EC3 Announcement

City of Peterborough Updates: Community Grants & Tourism Community Cafés

November 6th, 2025

The City’s Community Grants Applications Opened Wednesday, November 5 and close on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 12 p.m. 

Any not-for-profit group or association in the City that would like to be considered for the Community Grants Program in 2026 is invited to complete an online application for a Community Project Grant or a Community Investment Grant. The online application and details on the Community Grants Program are on the City’s website at peterborough.ca/CommunityGrants.

The Community Grants program provides financial assistance to non-profit, community-based organizations that provide direct programs, services, or activities that enhance the quality of life for Peterborough residents in the areas of social services and health, arts, culture, heritage, recreation, or the environment.

See the News Release here: https://www.peterborough.ca/news/posts/community-grants-applications-open-wednesday-november-5/

City Launches a New Feedback Series “Let’s Talk About Tourism: City of Peterborough Hosting Pop-Up Community Cafés to Inform Tourism Strategy”

Attend these upcoming public forums to speak up on the importance of the City’s arts and cultural assets in tourism strategy!

Members of the community are invited to attend one of two drop-in community cafés being held on the following days:

  • Wednesday, November 12 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Lansdowne Place, 645 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough (upper level, near Entrance 5/SportChek/Old Navy)
  • Thursday, November 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre, 775 Brealey Dr., Peterborough

These drop-in events are open to all, and light refreshments will be available.

The Community Cafés are a space for residents to provide insights, perspectives, and feedback on the future vision and priorities of tourism in the City of Peterborough, as well as provide input around the value propositions associated with the city’s tourism assets.

See the post here: https://www.peterborough.ca/news/posts/let-s-talk-about-tourism-city-of-peterborough-hosting-pop-up-community-cafes-to-inform-tourism-strategy/

Posted in EC3 Announcement

Professional Development Workshop: Yes, You Can Write a Multi and Inter-Arts Project Grant Application!

November 5th, 2025

FREE Professional Development Workshop: Yes, You Can Write a Multi and Inter-Arts Project Grant Application!

Part of EC3’s Professional Development Workshop Program, this Grant Writing Workshop is presented in partnership with Public Energy Performing Arts (PE), the Electric City Culture Council (EC3) and the Ontario Arts Council (OAC).

See the Eventbrite for registration and further information: https://tinyurl.com/28en4svv

When

Thursday, November 27th, 2025

6:00pm to 8:00pm EST

Where

Artspace

3-378 Aylmer Street North

Peterborough, ON K9H 3V8

FREE

Join Public Energy Performing Arts, the Electric City Culture Council (EC3) and the Ontario Arts Council (OAC) for a grant information session and grant writing workshop, focusing on the Ontario Arts Council’s Multi and Inter-Arts: Projects Program.

If you are an artist working across disciplines and are looking to hone your multidisciplinary and inter-arts grant writing skills, book your spot in this FREE workshop.

While the presentation is geared to multidisciplinary artists, this workshop will benefit any aspiring grant writer. This workshop is suitable for grant seekers of all career stages and all experience levels, from artists who have never written a grant before, to more seasoned grant writers.

See our latest Bulletin here for further information: https://us6.campaign-archive.com/?u=556d040c55c5256ca90a5c271&id=807c2a9405

Posted in Bulletin

Upcoming 2026 City Budget Consultations & Meetings

October 28th, 2025

Speak up for arts funding! 

City Council and City staff will begin public meetings on the 2026 draft budget as soon as November 3rd, 2025.

City staff have not included funding for Grants to Individual Artists, the Poet Laureate Program, or the Artsweek 2027 Festival in the 2026 draft budget.

See EC3’s Bulletin on Upcoming 2026 City Budget Consultations & Meetings: https://mailchi.mp/ecthree/upcoming-2026-city-budget-consultations-meetings

For every dollar the OAC invests, $25 in total revenues are generated by funded arts organizations. See the 2025 “Arts Across Ontario” report.

Posted in Bulletin

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arts awards
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planning
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convening
connecting
capacity building
cultural incubators
artsweek
professional development workshops
advocacy
research
partnerships
networks promotion
education
arts awareness
representation
arts awards
forums
knowledge sharing
support services
strategic leadership
creative programming ideas
planning
solutions
convening
connecting
capacity building
cultural incubators
artsweek
professional development workshops
advocacy
research
partnerships
networks promotion
education
arts awareness
representation
arts awards
forums
knowledge sharing
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strategic leadership
creative programming ideas
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convening
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cultural incubators
artsweek
professional development workshops
advocacy
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education
arts awareness
representation
arts awards
forums
knowledge sharing
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creative programming ideas
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convening
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capacity building
cultural incubators
artsweek
professional development workshops
advocacy
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partnerships
networks promotion
education
arts awareness
representation
arts awards
forums
knowledge sharing
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strategic leadership
creative programming ideas
planning
solutions
convening
connecting
capacity building
cultural incubators
artsweek
professional development workshops
advocacy
research
partnerships
networks promotion
education
arts awareness
representation
arts awards
forums
knowledge sharing
support services
strategic leadership
creative programming ideas
planning
solutions
convening
connecting
capacity building
cultural incubators
artsweek
professional development workshops
advocacy
research
partnerships
networks promotion
education
arts awareness
representation
arts awards
forums
knowledge sharing
support services
strategic leadership
creative programming ideas
planning
solutions
convening
connecting
capacity building
cultural incubators
artsweek
professional development workshops
advocacy
research
partnerships
networks promotion
education
arts awareness
representation
arts awards
forums
knowledge sharing
support services
strategic leadership
creative programming ideas
planning
solutions
convening
connecting
capacity building
cultural incubators
artsweek
professional development workshops
advocacy
research
partnerships
networks promotion
education
arts awareness
representation
arts awards
forums
knowledge sharing
support services
strategic leadership
creative programming ideas
planning
solutions
convening
connecting
capacity building
cultural incubators
artsweek
professional development workshops
advocacy
research
partnerships
networks promotion
education
arts awareness
representation
arts awards
forums
knowledge sharing
support services
strategic leadership
creative programming ideas
planning
solutions
convening
connecting
capacity building