Dear Editor,
The Apr. 2 issue of THE EQUITY featured an article on artPontiac in which the current president described the past few years of artPontiac as “tumultuous”, and artPontiac as an “organization in crisis” (Digital overhaul to help artPontiac retool after ‘crisis’, says president, THE EQUITY, April 2, 2025). Lack of volunteers and difficulties re-engaging with communities post-covid were cited as key challenges. It was also stated that communications with the former administration were difficult, making it hard for the board to get access to crucial details such as banking information.
As the “former administration” we feel the word “tumultuous” is inaccurate, in light of the way artPontiac rebounded after covid. We also want to respond to the comments about the nature of communications and information transfer.
When we took over in 2022, post-covid, we also faced low membership and a volunteer shortage. Our response was to survey members, identify issues, plot a path forward and do much of the work ourselves. We are grateful to the many past and new members who helped but there were not enough to cover all the work.
In 2022 we doubled the membership (and local sponsorship funding) and delivered the usual program of exhibitions and workshops. We also added a shop featuring the work of 40 artists which generated significant $23,000 in sales the first year, more in the second, all of which went directly to artists. At the end of 2023, when our term ended, artPontiac had 126 members.
Despite the successes, there were issues. At the Dec. 2023 annual general meeting we flagged the need to reduce operational costs (the largest being rent charged by the MRC), adjust line items in the budget to reflect new activities and secure new funding sources. After two years of near full-time involvement, it was time for others to take over. Three people, including the current president, did so.
From then on, we made every effort to effect a smooth transition, providing background process, organizational history, contacts and access to all records, including finances, and introduced them to artPontiac’s bookkeeper (Culture Outaouais). We also organized a workshop for the board and potential volunteers to review the mandate, committee structure and volunteer needs (two potential volunteers attended). We were told we were sharing too much information and that no further help was needed.
Difficulties regarding banking information revolved around efforts by the new board to create new signing authorities and change ownership of email, social media and other accounts, including PayPal. It was a frustrating process for all. The board’s decision to move artPontiac’s account to another branch further complicated matters. The situation was not resolved until late spring. Throughout this period, because, as we were told, the association’s bookkeeper was difficult to reach, the past president continued to help in processing payments. To be clear, no information was withheld.
We applaud the securing of funding for an updated website and hope the current board will re-introduce activities that will ensure the Stone School once again becomes a focus for community involvement and artistic development.
Cheryl Beillard (past president),
Claire Taillefer (past vice-president)
Linda Roy (past secretary)
