Director's Message

On January 18th, 1956, a group of committed and passionate supporters of the visual and performing arts met in St. Catharines to discuss the idea of forming an arts centre for the community. After four years of dedication, hard work and fundraising, on September 17, 1960, the Rodman Hall Arts Centre was officially opened by Dr. A.W. Trueman, Chairman of the Canada Council and Rodman's life as a public art gallery began. 2010 marks this organization's 50th anniversary and as we enter the New Year, I extend a warm invitation to our members, supporters and visitors to actively share in a year of celebration.

We will feature a new series of provocative contemporary exhibitions and introduce new educational programs and events. We will also punctuate our walls with significant works of art that marked the beginning of the permanent collection: Mr. John Martin's donation of works by A.Y. Jackson and Homer Watson and Mrs. G.J. Lane's gift of a watercolour by Frederick Varley, among others.

The year begins with a series of dynamic contemporary art exhibitions such as Maria Fernanda Cardoso: Fashion and Mimesis, Adad Hannah: Cuba Still (Remake) and a new Niche installation by Simon Frank. Our Hot Talks! continue and you won't want to miss the next two that feature The Truth about Art Theft and Art and Philosophy. We are pleased to report that we have increased the number and variety of Adult and Children's art classes.

We are also preparing for a special anniversary celebration in the fall, so please stay tuned for further information on this party.

On a final note, on behalf of the staff and the Advisory Board, we thank you for your support over the past year and extend warm wishes for the New Year. We look forward to seeing you at the Gallery and to your participation in the activities planned for Rodman Hall during this special year.

Shirley Madill, Director