SPOTLIGHT on Rachel Kalpana James

Rachel Kalpana James believes in the power of communities. As the former executive director of the South Asian Visual Arts Collective (SAVAC), an artist-run organization based in Toronto, she advocated on behalf of South Asian visual artists.

Last year, Rachel wanted to gain a deeper understanding of how other organizations serve their communities. She applied and received an Access and Career Development grant to undertake a mentorship in the fall of 2006.

Her journey took her to the Institute of International Visual Arts (inIVA) in the U.K., where she was mentored by Dr. Augustus Casely-Hayford, a leading figure in the promotion of culturally diverse artists and currently the Executive Director, Arts Strategy, at the Arts Council England.

inIVA is an organization in London that conducts exhibitions, artists’ talks, screenings and educational programs and creates publications to promote culturally diverse artists.

During her time at inIVA, Rachel met key stakeholders, politicians and arts leaders and gained an understanding of the leadership strategy behind inIVA.

Lessons Learned

The timing of Rachel’s mentorship at inIVA could not have been better. She witnessed inIVA’s operational transformation – an experience that has influenced her approach to strategic planning and sharpened her leadership and problem-solving skills.

“Dr. Casely-Hayford was extremely generous during the mentorship,” said Rachel. “He readily shared his insights and experiences with me and I was included in nearly all his meetings.

“The Access grant contributed to a wealth of new ideas about resources and funding and expanded my network of arts professionals.”

The next phase of Rachel’s journey takes her to the NOWHERE lab in Hampstead, England, where she will be an artist-in-residence.

SAVAC receives OAC operating funding through the Visual and Media Arts office.

Photo:
Rachel Kalpana James and Dr. Augustus Casely-Hayford. (Photo courtesy of Rachel Kalpana James)