History of the Markham Arts Council
2004 – Establishment of the Markham Arts Council (MAC)
2007 – Early Development. Focus on establishing core programs and community outreach.
2008-2010 – Introduction of Key Programs. Initiation of annual events and programs to engage the community in arts and culture.
2011-2012 – Expansion of Programs. Growth in the number of programs offered, including visual and performing arts events.
2013-2014 – Consolidation and Growth. Strengthening of existing programs and introduction of new initiatives to broaden community participation.
2015-2017 – Strategic Partnerships. Development of partnerships with local businesses and organizations to enhance program offerings and community impact. Focus on increasing member participation and volunteer involvement in MAC activities.
2018-2019 – Program Diversification. Expansion into new areas of arts programming, including digital arts and multimedia. Efforts to build organizational capacity through training, volunteer recruitment, and improved infrastructure.
2020- Mid 2021 – Pandemic Response. Shift to virtual programming in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Launch of virtual events such as Markham at the Movies online screenings, virtual art shows, and online workshops.
2021 – Mid 2022 – Continuation of Virtual Programming. Continued adaptation to the pandemic with more robust virtual offerings. Introduction of new virtual programs and events to maintain community engagement.
2022 – Mid 2023 – Hybrid Model. Implementation of a hybrid model combining virtual and in-person events as pandemic restrictions ease.
2023-2024 – Program Launch – Markham Talent Open Casting Call and Showcase
2024 – Art Exhibits for local artists including the launch of the Veteran art exhibit at Aaniin Community centre and Artist wall at Toyota Don Valley North
2024 – Mid 2025 – Virtual programming restarted – Art Therapy for Seniors