Our Goal
Establish a Black curriculum that highlights British Columbia’s Black History, and establishing a conduit to continue supporting Black Arts expression in Vancouver and greater British Columbia. We want to be a resource for the community of Vancouver, able to host and provide supplies and funding for emerging and established Black and Indigenous youth and industry leaders. We aim to establish a physical place where these connections can be made. Our goal is a multi-use space able to house vocational studios and workspaces for community members.
We are committed to supporting our community in all its diversity. Every young artist who walks through our door deserves room to create, to fail, to try again. We believe that artistic expression is not a luxury reserved for those who can afford it. It is a birthright.
Our work is rooted in the understanding that Pan-African youth carry histories worth knowing and futures worth building. We listen to what young people need and we show up to meet them there. We hold space with intention, with care, and with the knowledge that the hands creating today will shape what comes next.
We do this work because representation matters. Because a young artist who sees themselves in the gallery, on the stage, or in the studio learns something about their own power. Because community strengthens when we gather around what we make together.
OUR MISSION
Black Arts Vancouver exists to nurture, celebrate, and amplify the creative voices of Pan-African youth in Vancouver. We carve out space where young artists can explore their identities, connect with their heritage, and develop their craft without barriers. Through free workshops, exhibitions, and community gatherings, we build a place where Black youth see themselves reflected in the work they make and the stories they tell.
We are committed to supporting our community in all its diversity. Every young artist who walks through our door deserves room to create, to fail, to try again. We believe that artistic expression is not a luxury reserved for those who can afford it. It is a birthright.
Our work is rooted in the understanding that Pan-African youth carry histories worth knowing and futures worth building. We listen to what young people need and we show up to meet them there. We hold space with intention, with care, and with the knowledge that the hands creating today will shape what comes next.
We do this work because representation matters. Because a young artist who sees themselves in the gallery, on the stage, or in the studio learns something about their own power. Because community strengthens when we gather around what we make together.
History
Black Arts Society was born from a simple but powerful belief: that every young person deserves the opportunity to explore their identity and creativity through the arts, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.
Founded by Black artists and community organizers who saw a need for dedicated space and support for Pan-African youth, we started with a handful of workshops and a vision for something bigger. Today, we’ve grown into a vibrant hub for Black artistic expression in Vancouver, offering year-round programming that spans visual arts, performance, music, writing, and cultural education.
Our journey has been one of growth, resilience, and community. From adapting our programming during the pandemic to now establishing a permanent home at the Dominion Building, we’ve remained committed to our core values: accessibility, inclusivity, and cultural celebration.
New Beginnings
This is a new beginning—one where we have more resources, more space, and more capacity to serve our community. But our mission remains unchanged: to ensure that Pan-African youth in Vancouver have every opportunity to thrive as artists and cultural leaders.
Our space is more than a building—it’s a sanctuary for creativity, a place where Black artists can see themselves reflected and celebrated.
Workshop
Dedicated spaces for visual arts, crafts, and hands-on learning
Gathering
Room for performances, presentations, and community events
Exhibition
Display space for work by community artists and youth participants
Resources
Books, materials, and equipment for creative work
Our Team
Black Arts Society is powered by a dedicated team of artists, educators, and community organizers who bring passion, expertise, and lived experience to everything we do.
Berlynn Beam
Executive Diretor
Maggie Prider-Wint
Administrative Assistant
Communications Manager