December 20 2023
Dear Friends & Members of Access Gallery,
Access Gallery is bidding farewell to Director & Curator Katie Belcher. It’s a bittersweet moment for us; we’re very sad to see her go after six years of committed service, but we’re excited to cheer her on as she continues to build her practice as an independent curator and visual artist.
Katie has led the gallery through six years of exhibitions, prioritising building relationships with artists and being in-conversation as the work develops. The nurturing and collaborative energy she brings to her curatorial practice culminated in unforgettable exhibitions and long lasting relationships. This caring nature extended to the staff, students, and new graduates who learned under Katie’s guidance. Folks who have worked with Katie know she is a supportive mentor generous with her time, even beyond a shared workplace.
In addition to her curatorial role, Katie was an explementary leader and helmed the gallery through the challenges of the COVID 19 pandemic. Katie’s ethical grounding was a beacon of light at a time when we had to reimagine what our gatherings, fundraisers, and other normal activities looked like. Even through a difficult time, Katie’s warmth radiated through the space, and the literal cosiness she created in our PLOT space will be a tender reminder of her care and tenure here at Access.
Katie has the following message to share with all of you:
"I’ve long considered the leadership of artist-run centres to be a stewardship role—we take care and build on the work of those before us, contributing each in our own way to improve what we can, until it’s time for the next brave person to take it on. Where my energies go will shift a bit, but this work doesn’t end. I’m deeply grateful for the friendships you’ve offered, and all that I’ve learned while in the role of Director/Curator. Access has had a long history of generous staff, kind and keen board members, a community of critically and materially engaged artists. I look forward to witnessing and supporting what you bring to the table next."
Access Gallery is restructuring the role of Director/Curator. We’ll be sharing announcements soon as we release job postings to these new roles. Throughout this time the gallery will remain open and our operations will continue as normal, though response time may be delayed.
On behalf of the Board and Access, we want to thank Katie for her care, dedication, and professionalism. She will be very missed, and we can’t wait to see what comes next for her. We hope you will join the Board in wishing her well!
Sincerely,
The Access Gallery Board of Directors
Jennifer Dickieson
Gloria Jue-Youn Han
Rebecca Wang
Jocelyne Junker
April dela Noche Milne
Aaniya Asrani
Jonathan Alfaro
Kelsie Grazier
Questions & inquiries can be sent to personnel@accessgallery.ca.