Critical Distance Profile Type Organization

The Vera List Center for Art and Politics (VLC) at The New School is a leading research hub dedicated to politically engaged art. Founded in 1992 during intense debates around free speech, identity, and the role of the arts, the VLC has consistently framed the arts as essential to civic life.

Or Gallery is a non-profit artist-run centre that was initiated as a project space by Vancouver artist, Laiwan in 1983. Or Gallery strives to be a space of discourse and risk-taking in the production and consideration of contemporary art and related discourses, education and professional mentorship. Serving as a space that engages with the overlaps and connections between artists, curators, writers and cultural workers, the Gallery supports local and artistic communities through both professional and general-interest lectures, workshops and other outreach activities, which often include community-initiated programs. Or Gallery publishes artist books, editions and anthologies, and since 2010, has operated a small bookstore featuring local, small press and imported publications.

AKA Artist-Run is a centre for emergent practices for artists at any stage of their careers, providing space and support for critical, safe, and open exchange. AKA’s artistic direction considers the intentionality behind grassroots founding—led by a female artist collective making space in Saskatoon for experimental art practices.

Remai Modern presents and collects local and international modern and contemporary art that connects, inspires, and challenges diverse audiences through equitable and accessible programs.