Hello everyone,

I want to thank everyone who made ArtBash 2024 a success. It was a sold-out event with 400 donors sitting down for a delicious dinner in Baillie Court and 700 guests dancing and exploring the museum for a lively after party. Brianna Chase and the Development team lead the efforts – and almost every department was involved – the beautiful décor, the fine food, the great artwork, the professional security, the PR,  the on-point music, the many, many details! And over night the Facilities staff transformed the museum back so we can be ready to welcome visitors! The event raised a record $1.2 million and these funds go straight to our bottom line – they help pay for operational expenses such as salaries, programs, and utilities. Thank you to EVERYONE for helping make it a wonderful success.

Today in Walker Court, look up to the sculptural staircase and you will see a Toronto Raptors basketball jersey – iconic player Vince Carter’s number is being retired and his jersey will be making appearances at various Toronto landmarks today. It is of a partnership with the Raptors to celebrate Carter’s contributions to the game, and to our city. I remember when the Raptors won the NBA title a few years back – there was a massive parade and a great sense of pride for Toronto and its first ever world championship.

Alain sent out an email earlier this morning about Monday, September 30 as it is Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Please take a moment to read the e-mail (volunteer blog post) and reflect on how you can acknowledge this important day. Thank you.

Finally – Thanks for your ongoing patience with our IT situation, and many thanks to our IT team for their continued hard work. 

Take care,

Stephan