VISION

A thriving hub of artistic creation, learning and exchange that engages and inspires every part of our community.

MISSION

To make space for arts exploration, artistic development and creative incubation in Kingston. We do this through a welcoming community hub that brings together spaces, people, ideas and tools that support creativity and learning experiences.

MANDATE

Make Space for Art: Your Community Needs You

The Tett Centre stands as a beacon on Kingston's waterfront – a place where art happens, where creativity flourishes, where everyone belongs.

As we prepare to celebrate our 10th anniversary, we’re reaching out to ensure that this vital creative space continues to grow and thrive. Spaces to connect, share, and discover diverse art forms are becoming increasingly rare, yet they are essential to the cultural vibrancy that Kingston is known for.

85% agree that if their community lost its arts activities, people living there would lose something of value.

-Arts and Quality of Life for Ontarians, 2023, Ontario Arts Council

Why Space Matters Now More Than Ever

Walk through our building on any given day and the impact of the Tett is in every interaction.

• A retired teacher discovers new passion in our Tett Tuesday Open Studio
• A teenage artist finds their voice in our new Creative Futures Youth Program
• An artist-in-residence develops groundbreaking work that connects community to culture
• A child's eyes light up as they experience their first hands-on arts encounter with Kids Creativity Club

Your Gift Makes Space for Possibility

The Tett Centre is a community hub where creativity and learning intertwine - where professional artists work alongside curious beginners, and everyone has the opportunity to explore art in all its forms. Contributions from the community are vital for supporting our programs, and this year, we’ve set a goal of raising $30,000 to support: 

• Affordable studio space for emerging and established artists
• Free community programs that connect people through creativity
• Our celebrated artist residency program, which brings fresh creative energy to Kingston
• Safe spaces for youth to discover and develop their creative voices
• A vibrant hub for creative exploration in our historic building

Join Our Community of Space Makers

Your donation to the Tett Centre directly supports arts education, free community events and accessible creative spaces where artists thrive. Every contribution - no matter the size - makes a real impact.

• $25-$100 supports art materials for our popular Kid’s Creativity Club
• $100-$500 transforms our ability to offer free community events and support fair artist fees
• $500-$2000 pays for studio space for our Artist Residency program

"My time as an artist in residence at the Tett was incredibly rich in helping me on my artistic journey and my growth as an artist… it fostered a deeper connection for me with the Kingston community overall…and meeting the artists in the space has expanded my network."

-Meenakashi Ghadial, 2024 Artist in Residence