Where it Started
"Current
major forces, both in education and in our society, tend to ignore the
value and contribution of art. We must, more than ever, support and
encourage the arts in everyday life.”
— Gordon Smith
Artists for Kids was founded in 1989 with the singular intent to support exceptional art education and enrichment opportunities for young artists. For over three decades, this collective vision has been central to the development of a thriving art education program, including the Gordon Smith Gallery and its Permanent Collection of Canadian art.
In
order to realize a strong vision for arts education, Artists for Kids
developed a funding model which supports children and youth, educators,
and artists. This model is centered upon the Gordon Smith Gallery
Permanent Collection, established as a teaching collection through which
artworks by nationally and internationally recognized Canadian artists
are acquired by purchase or donation. In conjunction with each
acquisition, the artist generously donates an original artwork to be
released for sale as a limited edition. Funds raised through the Artists
for Kids Limited Edition Portfolio program directly support Gallery
programs, artist residencies, camps, scholarships, and bursaries
designed for children, youth, and educators.
Bill Reid, (Canadian, 1920 – 1998) XHUWAJI/Haida Grizzly Bear
The Artists for Kids Limited Edition Portfolio program began over 30 years ago and is now revered as one of the most significant limited edition collections in Canada. In 1988 Bill Reid designed Xhuwaji / Haida Grizzly on a ceremonial drum which is part of the Gordon Smith Gallery Permanent Collection. In 1990 he created an edition of serigraph prints (with printmaker Terra Bonnieman) to be sold through the Artists for Kids Limited Edition Portfolio program. Xhuwaji / Haida Grizzly was the first Artist for Kids Limited Edition Portfolio print, marking the beginning of a great partnership between Canadian artists and the North Vancouver School District. Bill Reid’s work and generosity was the first of many great relationships for the Artists for Kids Limited Edition Portfolio program.
Gordon Smith, Bill Reid, and Jack Shadbolt were the founding artist-patrons of Artists for Kids. Today, through the Gordon Smith Gallery Gallery of Canadian Art, Artists for Kids brings some of Canada’s most significant art curriculums to children, youth, and educators across British Columbia.
As you consider acquiring an Artists for Kids Limited Edition, a timeless article, to be held and passed through generations, we hope you are reminded of the direct impact of your purchase. Acquiring an edition from the Artists for Kids Limited Edition Portfolio is not only an investment in artists and art education, but in building community and understanding through art.
“Artists for Kids is the largest producer of fine art prints in the country. Their collection has grown to be a true chronicle of art and artists in Canada.”
— Greg Murdock
Artists for Kids
2024 Fall Portfolio
For more information on the Artists for Kids
2024 Fall Portfolio click here.
Artist Patrons
Select an artist to view their limited edition and biography.
All images are
published exclusively through Artists for Kids in partnership with Canadian artists
in support of children and youth, their art education, and their future.
