Amy Smith is the new manager of the Omineca Arts Centre in downtown Prince George and Mallory McKinney takes on the role of executive assistant.
These changes took place as Fernanda Salla left her position as the non-profit organization's arts coordinator as she pursues other artistic endeavors in the community. Salla was with the arts centre for about 18 months.
This restructuring of staff at the centre will facilitate extended hours of operation while enhancing community engagement and expanding programming.
Smith brings nine years of experience as a community programmer, artist and musician.
Smith recently moved to Prince George from Vancouver Island and holds a bachelor of fine arts degree in visual arts from the University of Victoria and a masters in museum education from the University of BC.
Smith understands the importance of using art to support education, mental health, and community, and said in a recent press release she is excited to work on the territories of the Tse’khene and Lheidli T’enneh.
As executive assistant McKinney will work with Smith to support programs and operations. McKinney has a fine arts degree from the Victoria College of Art and brings more than a decade of experience in various administrative and management roles. She excels in streamlining processes and supporting creative initiatives.
Omineca Arts Centre staff will work closely with local artists to continue to host free community programs such as Beading Wednesdays, Creative Connect Thursdays, Coffee House Open Mics and other workshops and special events. The Omineca Arts Centre’s efforts are crucial to fostering creativity in Prince George through diverse programming.
Funding from the Vancouver Foundation and tentatively BC Arts Council has made this opportunity possible.
“We look forward to seeing how these changes will strengthen our vision of providing a space for creativity to flourish and supporting innovative, collaborative, and marginalized art forms in North Central BC,” Jennifer Pighin, Omineca Artist Run Centre Society Chairperson, said in a recent press release.
For more information about the Omineca Arts Centre visit https://www.ominecaartscentre.com/
