Focus Art invites You to attend the 2016 AGM on May 4. The AGM (annual general meeting) is an obligatory meeting of the general membership of the organization at least once a year.

While talking with a few members during my turn hosting the Spring Exhibition at the Cornwall Square,I attempted to encourage the artists to attend the Focus Art AGM.I was sad to hear that some artists plan to skip this meeting and wondered why. As a member of an association it seems important to know what the Board is doing, how funds are acquired and spent and the general direction the organization plans for the coming year. Itʼs also a chance to meet and exchange with colleagues, an opportunity that working in a studio does not always favor.

Some of you told me that is exactly why they avoid AGMs. They donʼt want to be “voluntold” onto the board. Well you can relax on that aspect. A nominating committee has approached members to replace outgoing directors. Of course anyone wanting to throw in his or her hat can do so at the meeting. A strong, engaged board will guarantee our future success as an association. With the possibility of a Centre for the Arts on the horizon, it is important to have as much input as we can.

A great leadership makes monthly meetings move along rapidly and efficiently. Linda Geisel (photo left) who will remain president for another year, does this very well and has added an element of socializing to the meetings. In her report, she will be presenting a PowerPoint Retro on all the activities during the past year.

As invited guest speaker, Kevin Lajoie, Public Information Co-coordinator for Cornwall, will present ART IN THE CITY, a wonderful initiative by the Council to exhibit work by local artists in major buildings. (ex. City Hall). Find out how you can be part of this project.

Also very important, the winner of the PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD from the Spring Exhibition will be announced. (Thousands voted)

An interesting perk to the gathering will be a Trading Post during the break. If you have art material, equipment, art books, frames etc., bring them along to sell or exchange with other members. It’s time to clean up the studio.

Finally, put May 4th on your calendar, come and be an engaged member of Focus Art.

Apples and Art

Don’t forget that the end of April is the deadline to participate in Apples and Art, September 2016. Find details by searchingww.applesandart.ca. This is a great venue to show and sell your work.

Focus Art meets at:

Wednesday, May 4th at Centre Charles-­‐Emile Claude 146 Chèvrier Ave. Doors open at 6h30, meeting begins at 7pm. Looking forward to seeing you all!

for more information about Focus Art visit: www.focusartonline.org