Here are some of the past programs and services we have offered at VANS:

Creative Consults: The Creative Consults program is made for artists who are searching for advice to support their professional practice. Members can start by searching through the directory of creative consultants, filter by expertise and book the consultant of their choice on the consultant's profile. We have consultants with expertise in grant writing, podcasting, marketing, websites, writing proposals, budgeting, exhibition installation and so much more.

HEAR TELL: Visual Arts Nova Scotia has developed HEAR TELL, a 6 week online podcast training program tailored to meet the needs of those working in the arts in Atlantic Canada. The HEAR TELL program includes a series of live webinars and online presentations by podcasting experts as well as creative podcast producers. Check out our HEAR TELL digital resource guide here: https://visualarts.ns.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Hear-Tell-Resource-Guide.pdf

Subsidized Studio: Visual Arts Nova Scotia's Subsidized Studio program allows members to rent a studio at a greatly discounted rate for two or three months. There is no expectation of work to be completed during the studio rental. It is an opportunity for an artist who may be new to working in an independent studio or an artist who has a specific project to work on and could use support to fund a short-term studio space.

The Susan Wood Award: This annual award created by VANS to be distributed annually to a promising emerging artist by the Nova Scotia Talent Trust. Susan Wood was committed to helping emerging artists as an instructor at NSCAD for almost 20 years and as a mentor in the VANS Mentorship Program. This award will honour her legacy as a dedicated visual artist, mentor, and friend.

Corridor Gallery: Giving members of Visual Arts Nova Scotia an opportunity to create an exhibition of their work.

Open Grants: Groups, galleries and/or collectives can apply for up to $500 to create new programming or enhance existing programming in their community, encouraging art engagement activities across Nova Scotia.

FRESH EYES Art Critiques: Share your work and chat with your fellow artists for this evening of friendly, constructive art critique.

New Grad Program: This 14 week program is designed to help recent graduates navigate the transition from a full time student to a professional artist. During the program, all participants will be given the opportunity to take weekly professional development workshops on topics such as budgeting, applying for grants, writing about your work, and networking. Participants will have 24 hour access to a shared studio space in Halifax; Studio visits from an artist/curator; and be coached by a mentor.

40th Anniversary Events and Activities: VANS was started in November 1976 with a road trip across Nova Scotia to connect with artists and communities. For our 40th year we focused on offering more accessible and engaging programming across the province. This included the expansion of our existing programs and the addition of special initiatives.