About the Gallery
Gateway To the Arts (GTTA) emerges as a vibrant canvas, a testament to the Northern Ontario arts community’s kaleidoscope of hues and visions. Founded on the belief that every artist, seasoned or emerging, deserves a platform, our gallery continuously evolves to meet the dynamic needs of creators and the community. Embracing the spirit of humble beginnings, GTTA stands as an empowering haven, fostering artistic growth in a positive and empowering ambiance.
Envisioned and nurtured by Karrie Emms and Dani Lynn Redgrift-Berthelot, GTTA thrives across two storefronts, spanning 2600 sq. ft. on Main Street in North Bay, Ontario. Amidst common workspaces, a luminous storefront gallery, and the inclusive space of Nick’s Place For Us, our gallery blossomed with the backing of a generous landlord and a “build it, they will come” determination that defied budget constraints.
Swiftly, GTTA evolved into an artist’s nucleus, hosting markets, Art Battles, and an array of local events. A beacon for the community, it champions artistry, leadership, and a profound commitment to communal involvement. In the face of a global pandemic, GTTA emerged as a force for unity, intertwining artistry with altruism.
Our community engagement transcended the canvas, becoming an ode to service:
During the pandemic’s tumultuous times, GTTA became a sanctuary, offering artists a stage for their craft amid event cancellations. Collaborating with local businesses, we championed initiatives like the Festival of Trees, spreading joy to families weathering adversity.
We didn’t stop at providing aid; our collective transformed donation bins into canvases of hope and creativity. In sync with the Downtown North Bay April Pandemic Kits, we fueled family creativity during the March Break, nurturing resilience within households.
Our most ambitious venture, the Gateway To Diversity Festival, celebrates our city’s vibrant cultural mosaic, uniting the downtown community in a post-pandemic celebration.
Looking ahead, GTTA remains an artistic oasis—where volunteers, artists, and enthusiasts converge, weaving a tapestry of enriching experiences. Expect a year brimming with eclectic events, engaging workshops, vibrant exhibitions, and a warm invitation for artists seeking a nurturing platform.
Join us in embracing the artistry of life. GTTA invites you to paint your canvas with us and immerse in a profoundly creative journey ahead!
“Unleashing Creativity, Fostering Leadership: Where Art Connects Communities.” 