International Avenue Arts and Culture Community (IAACC)’s mandate is to support arts and cultural initiatives in Greater Forest Lawn.

The organization has been an arts mover and shaker in East Calgary since 2001. IAACC is inclusive and diverse, serving the communities of East Central Calgary. Thus, fostering a creative place where everyone can feel included.

Current programming includes:

1. Artist in Residency Sponsorship Program (AIR)- support of local artists to use new skills and be empowered to create. A collaboration with FUSE33, an innovative makerspace for synergistic opportunities for artists to learn new skills with internationally renowned makers. A safe space for an artist to expand their practice and develop economic opportunities to further their practice into a possible business.
2. Resident Artist program – IAACC choses one artist from AIR for a 6 week “internship”. Through this program, the artist is given the opportunity to create a program for the community to learn and create art through a free program. Allowing the artist to expand and strengthen their public speaking & teaching further enhancing their portfolio.
3. Public art initiatives – collaborations with artists, community organizations, cultural groups and businesses. Past initiatives include: the transformation of an unused street to create public art & community connector. A rusty sea can restoration in an underserved community transformed into a bright, colourful mosaic in the community of Albert Park.
4. Art shows and community events- Every opportunity is taken to showcase local artists with art shows and community events.
5. Art Hives (Artists & Organizations) – meetings occurring like- minded individuals to safely discuss challenges, successes and build community connections and solutions together. This will be further achieved by providing lectures from other acclaimed artists. Through these meetups- individuals and organizations can feel supported, heard and valued while expanding their network and vocation.