ABOUT
The James Black Gallery is an artist-run centre operating in Mount Pleasant area of Vancouver, BC located on the unceded, ancestral and traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwu7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. The JBG presents exhibitions of local and international artists, provides studio space to members of our collective, and hosts interdisciplinary events. We currently run a pod residency series for local artists who are given the opportunity to engage with the public through a solo exhibition of the works produced during their stay. The JBG has been operating collectively since December 2014 and is located in a heritage building (est. 1889).
Currently there are monthly events, and opportunities for outside curators to practice their skills within the space. Contact us for information on events, workshops, guest residencies, donations, or studio rentals.
Mandate
The James Black Gallery is a queer led arts and culture hub dedicated to giving a voice to emerging artists in Vancouver, providing space for community engagement, and experimental multidisciplinary art practices. We offer studio and gallery space with a focus on remaining responsive to the ever shifting needs of our community.
Vision
Our vision is of a vibrant, inclusive and experimental arts sector in Vancouver.
Values
Equity, Community, Experimental, Passion, Emergent Strategies
Mission
1. To provide space for early career artists
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For artists looking for workspace, guestspace, and showspace in a city known for lack of space.
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To encourage the development of structures and policies that support the development of the visual arts in early-career artists.
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To prioritize marginalized voices in our space to help create equity and change within our systems.
2. To promote new cultural creators in finding space for their event production.
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To ensure new voices are heard and unique experiences are explored.
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By mentoring artists who are interested in learning other aspects of the arts sector in order to strengthen knowledge and capabilities for all.
3. To host artists from other cities and countries
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To create cross-cultural pollination and connect Vancouver to a global engagement.
PRESS
"Witness for yourself the out-of-the-white-box activities that the James Black Gallery brings to the Vancouverite art scene."
"JBG allows for the strengthening of relationships between residents and other artists in Vancouver through shared exhibitions and events. It also facilitates international connections through open calls for submissions and digital shows."
“Victorian funhouse whose rotating deck of in-house artists continues to rival the building itself in quirkiness.”
"...the revitalization of Mount Pleasant as a centre of arts and culture. "
