“I can’t imagine a place without art.” 

In the spirit of celebrating Northumberland’s vibrant art scene, we recently sat down with Olinda Casimiro, the Executive Director of the Art Gallery of Northumberland. The interview, conducted by Reva Nelson as part of our series with Northumberland Arts Lovers, dives into the profound connection between art and community in our county.

From a very young age, Olinda was destined to be intertwined with the arts. A recent discovery of her grade one report card noted that she would “excel in the visual arts”—a prophecy that has beautifully unfolded over the years. Today, Olinda shares her passion for art, which she describes as a source of immense joy and a medium that continuously fuels her curiosity. She explains how art invites her to ask questions, to feel deeply, and to reflect.

Olinda’s approach to art is centred on education and community building. She believes that art galleries should not only be places of exhibition but also spaces that invite community engagement and conversation.

For Olinda, the absence of art in any space is unimaginable. She views her role as not just a curator of art but also as an educator and a giver to the community. Her vision ensures that the gallery remains a lively space where community members feel invited to explore, learn, and converse.

We invite you to watch the full interview and hear directly from Olinda about her journey with art and her contributions to making the Art Gallery of Northumberland a cornerstone of our cultural community. Dive into the fascinating world of art in Northumberland through her insights and experiences.

Watch the full interview here.

Join us at the Northumberland Festival of the Arts to experience the creativity and passion that leaders like Olinda bring to our community.

Sing it! Say it! Play it!

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