National accessArts Centre (NaAC)

Overview

Formerly known as the In-Definite Arts Society (founded in 1975), the National accessArts Centre (NaAC) presented by TD was established in 2020 following the amalgamation of In-Definite Arts with sister disability arts organizations Momo Movement and Artistic Expressions. As Canada’s first multidisciplinary disability arts organization, the NaAC supports nearly 400 Canadian artists living with developmental, physical, and acquired disabilities. The organization operates a main studio facility in Calgary along with two venues in Toronto—the Toronto Arts and Accessibility Incubator and the Won Lee Community Gallery. Additionally, the NaAC is developing a $30+ million accessible arts learning campus in Calgary comprising the Joseph Chung Centre for Creativity and the Trico Communities Accessible Arts Centre.

Mission

The NaAC aims to provide accessible artistic training, creation platforms, and exhibition or presentation opportunities for artists with disabilities across Canada. By utilizing a holistic, non-linear approach adapted to individual learning styles and accessibility needs, the center seeks to unlock professional growth and industry-standard compensation for artists who have historically lacked exposure to formal training. The NaAC is dedicated to advocating for full disability representation, inclusion across production levels, and the global recognition of artists with disabilities.

Programs / Opportunities

• Professional Track Programs: Advanced, multi-disciplinary training and creation pathways backed by the Canada Arts Training Fund (CATF) that connect artists with commissioning, presenting, industry-standard compensation, and professional career development.
• Visual Arts Division: Offers ongoing Studio Sessions, monthly virtual and in-person artist-led workshops, local and international gallery exhibitions/art sales (in cities like New York, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Mexico), and a curatorial mentorship program tailored for artists with developmental disabilities.
• Performing Arts & Dance Division: Features open, style-specific Community Dance Classes (covering Hip Hop, Jazz, and Musical Theatre) alongside the professional, mixed-ability NaAC Dance Ensemble (formerly Momo Movement) creating live and film works.
• Music Division: Community music-making classes for beginners alongside a Professional Music Ensemble engaged in large-scale sound creation, experimental audio projects, and performance.
• Film & Media Division: Community classes in animation, photography, and filmmaking (from Super 8mm to digital video), plus an invitation-only Professional Track Ensemble led by Katie Wackett where filmmakers with disabilities act as creative leads.
• Indigenous Programs: The Ways of Knowing Ensemble and community classes connecting artists with local Indigenous knowledge keepers to explore Indigenous history, culture, and creation methods through collaborative exhibitions and online publications.

Target Community

• Artists with Disabilities: Canadian creators living with developmental, physical, and acquired disabilities—ranging from beginners in community classes to advanced members of professional ensembles.