FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bill Reid Gallery and BMO Partner to Remove Barriers to Indigenous Arts and Culture
Vancouver, B.C. December 6, 2025
The Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art is proud to announce a new partnership with BMO, launching the initiative 'Removing Barriers to Indigenous Arts and Culture.' This multi-year sponsorship will foster connection, inclusion, and cultural equity by ensuring that everyone across incomes, abilities, experiences, and backgrounds can enjoy the vibrant art and traditions of the Northwest Coast.
This initiative marks an exciting milestone for the Gallery: for the first time ever, admission to the Indigenous Artists Markets will be free to the public, thanks to BMO’s generous support. These lively community gatherings celebrate Indigenous creativity, bringing together artists, families, and visitors in an atmosphere of joy, connection, and cultural pride.
Through BMO’s leadership as one of the Gallery’s Access Partners, free admission will be offered to all visitors during key community events, including:
- Community Open Houses in 2025 and 2026
- Indigenous Artists Markets in December 2025, and June & December 2026
- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30) in 2025 and 2026
This partnership is a powerful example of how corporate collaboration can remove barriers and create meaningful access to arts and culture. By supporting inclusive programming, BMO is helping ensure that Indigenous-led art and storytelling remain accessible to everyone, fostering shared learning and reconciliation through the arts.
“At BMO, we believe access to the arts is a powerful catalyst for fostering understanding and advancing reconciliation,” said Ashish Arora, Head, BMO Business Banking, Western Canada. “The Bill Reid Gallery is a place where Indigenous voices and stories thrive, and this partnership reflects BMO’s continuing commitment to breaking down barriers and supporting organizations that celebrate culture, inspire learning, and strengthen community relationships.”
“We are deeply grateful to BMO for helping remove financial barriers and expanding access to Indigenous-led arts and culture,” said Allison Andrachuk, Director and CEO at the Bill Reid Gallery. “Their commitment allows us to create more opportunities for connection, celebration, and understanding across communities.”
About the Bill Reid Gallery
Established by the Bill Reid Foundation, the Bill Reid Gallery celebrates the legacy of Bill Reid (1920–1998) and the living cultures of the Northwest Coast. Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, the Gallery presents exhibitions and programs that engage, educate, and inspire a deeper understanding of Indigenous art and culture.
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