CMA Awards of Outstanding Achievement

Audience Outreach

The CMA Outstanding Achievement in Audience Outreach recognizes programming that advances knowledge and understanding by reaching new audiences or enhancing existing ones.

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia — Autism Arts

The Autism Arts publication is the product of an inspiring 15-year mission to foster inclusion and create opportunities for Canadian youth living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through the Autism Arts program. The book houses the collection of artworks created by participants throughout the years. Demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing conversations about how the art community can continue to improve access for individuals on the autism spectrum, the book displays a wealth of insight about the ways that autistic youth experience not only the processes of viewing and creating art, but also the galleries themselves. Considered an artefact of national significance by the participants of Autism Arts, the book represents 15 years of learning and accomplishments in the program.

“It is truly an honour to receive this award and recognition from the CMA for Autism Arts, a remarkable partnership program between the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and Autism Nova Scotia over the past 15 years, where we’ve been able to watch this program transform the lives of participants, volunteers, and families.

Autism Arts tells a story — one filled with love and art, promise and hope. Grounded in the belief that working together our impact is stronger and deeper, Autism Arts illuminates the importance of inclusive art programs to connect with community. Thank you to those who have nurtured Autism Arts over the years.”

— Dale Sheppard, Curator of Education & Public Programs

Art Gallery of Nova Scotia — Autism Arts also received an honourable mention in the Award of Outstanding Achievement — Research category.

Honourable Mention

The Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery — Community Garden Project

A strong example of community engagement and relationship building in the high days of the pandemic the Community Garden Project ran from May to November, incorporating Indigenous knowledge in gardening practices and encouraging over 260 people to collaborate and connect outdoors, through classes, workshops, and discussions.

“Receiving this recognition from the Canadian Museum Association is fantastic and an encouragement to continue building innovative programs for our communities! The Community Garden is an ongoing, multi-layered project that gathers community members to engage with the importance of accessible, local food while creating ceramic and glass tiles.”

— Denis Longchamps, PhD, Executive Director and Chief Curator