Craft Ontario

Leisa Rich and the Contemporary Textile Studio Co-op

Established by Leisa Rich and the Contemporary Textile Studio Co-op, this award supports mid-career textile artists who are seeking to explore and develop new artistic directions. The award recognizes barriers to mid-career textile artists in finding financial, social, and professional support, and makes space for creating work that opens doors and advances contemporary textile practices.

The Contemporary Textile Studio Co-operative (CTSC) was started in 2006 by a group of textile artists wanting an affordable and properly equipped studio space, and a home for the promotion of textile arts and design in Toronto. The CTSC is located in a well-known cultural hub, and the working studio is a prime 1200 square foot space on the first floor of the historic 401 Richmond Street West building where members and friends produce work, teach, learn, interact, and innovate with other designers, artists, students, and the community.

CTSC members have access to the studio on a full-time basis. Other emerging and professional artists, designers, and craftspeople participate in the extended studio community through ongoing workshops, classes, student residencies, textile talks, and special events. The CTSC is comprised of a small group of members who direct, manage, and contribute to the development of the co-operative with the help of a part-time Studio Coordinator. CTSC Mission: Creating a community dedicated to textile arts, craft and design through education, innovation and research.

The CTSC relies on members' diverse backgrounds and perspectives to spark innovation and creativity. The CTSC is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from Black, Indigenous, and people of colour, persons with disabilities, persons of all sexual and gender identities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and practices.

What does it mean to be a Co-op Member?
Co-op members share the ownership and direction of the co-op as well as having access to the space and equipment for production of their work and for occasional teaching. The Co-op is governed by a board of directors and maintains several committees including: Communications, Facilities and Environment, Programming, and Membership.

The Craft Awards program is able to take place on an annual basis through the valued support of many generous donors and sponsors. Our thanks go out to the following organizations, business, and individuals: Contemporary Textile Studio Co-opFUSION: the Ontario Clay and Glass Association, Gladstone House, JJStudio, Lacy West Supplies Ltd, The Pottery Supply House, Tucker's Pottery Supplies Ltd., as well as members and friends of the Copeland, CorcoranGregor, McPherson, Mather, Mayhall, RichShanks, Walker, and Yung families. 

  

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Who We Are

Formerly the Ontario Crafts Council, Craft Ontario is a not-for-profit service organization that works to have craft recognized as a valuable part of life. We promote and celebrate professional craft through providing member opportunities, and advocate for craft practice by educating and empowering diverse audiences.