ACASO - African Canadian Art Society

s. History:
The idea of an Art Society came about after the founders realized the abundance of arts talent in Alberta that had no means and resources to express themselves. Through live musical shows the founders met talented and eager musicians who had no experience and resources to nurture their skills. The founders decided to form a non-profit organization, a platform to nurture and assist young talent, musicians, and artists through mentorship, training, exposure, resources and advocacy. ACASO was incorporated in Alberta Canada on the 31st of August 2009

Our objectives:
• To promote awareness, educate, inform, and provide compelling information on African art, music and culture to members and non-members.

• To inspire civic pride with regard to music, cultural, art and social activities in the African
Canadian Communities.

• To promote a sense of continued harmony and camaraderie among African Canadian Artists.

• To be involved in fundraising and voluntary activities for the benefit of disadvantaged communities and community members.

• To provide a forum for artists who are interested in exchanging ideas and share experiences.

• To assist in the settlement of newcomer African immigrant artists and champion Edmonton as a place of choice for African immigrants

Services to Members:
ACASO assists a wide range of artists who practice different art forms. The range includes musicians, dancers, actors, writers, film makers, painters, sculptors etc. The organization is an incubator that produces capable and independent artists. Instructors/Mentors:
ACASO also assist in networking and pairing artists with experienced and qualified instructors and mentors to assist them with their skills development. ACASO has built and continues to build a network of artists who are skilled, experienced and qualified to help as instructors and mentors. The instructors and mentors are based in Canada and as far as Africa. Besides teaching emerging artists about their particular art form, the society, through its instructors and mentors, helps the artists understand the commercial and legal aspects of art such as royalties, copyright laws and contracts. Membership:
Any adult resident of Canada with an interest in African art forms, who is in good standing, can join the society. Any minor can also join with the permission of a parent or guardian. An annual nominal subscription fee of $20 for adults and $10 for minors is required to maintain membership. Partnerships:
ACASO is a community focused organization, as such, it seeks to build partnerships with organizations and individuals who seek to advance common goals such as arts and culture, community building, philanthropy and business promotion. The Organization has formal and informal partnerships with the different organizations across all over Canada and Africa. Donations:
ACASO is actively involved in fund raising through its musical organized shows to support Organizations in Africa working with Orphanages, In partnership with Cargo link a prominent shipping company based in Toronto
a swift shipping of donated goods to Africa is always guaranteed.