Visual Arts Nova Scotia is pleased to announce their new Executive Director: Therese Cruz! After a lengthy search by Placemaking 4G, the VANS Board of Directors has hired Therese, who will start as the ED in July.

Therese is a community engager, artist and a mother. An immigrant from the Philippines, she moved to Toronto, Ontario to pursue her studies in jewellery arts, then relocated to Shelburne, Nova Scotia in 2017 with her family. Her interests take her to explore the culinary arts, as well as painting, rug hooking and tapestry weaving. She is a member/volunteer in multiple organizations.

Her motivation to be part of VANS is to be in arts administration that creates multiple avenues for local artists to gain exposure and be able to advocate and promote on their behalf.

Thank you to the Nova Scotia Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage Cultural Innovation Fund for supporting the development of an equity-focused leadership succession plan.

In addition to a new Executive Director, VANS also welcomes three new Board Members: Jayme-Lynn Gloade, Ayoka Junaid, and Tamara Smith. For more information on the Board of Directors, please click here.