Val Sears

Background

About Val Sears

As an artist, I appreciate the process. When I was sixteen, I couldn’t afford entry into my favourite local music venue. Determined to experience some live tunes with friends, I decided to approach the owner. I asked if he needed an assistant for a small wage. He refused to hire me, as I was underage, but after explaining I couldn’t afford his door cover, he offered me a conditional access pass to all-age events in exchange for helping unload the talent’s equipment and clearing stage debris. Every Friday and Saturday night I arrived early. I chatted with the bands and encouraged new acts to be confident as we lugged guitars and amplifiers up and down the stairs. Watching the performances became so much more rewarding knowing, that in some capacity, I had contributed. That year, I learned what “community” meant and witnessed passion. I discovered how critical behind-the-scene efforts are. Today I still work to set the stage. Whether it's facilitating a production, coordinating an event, or supporting contemporary galleries during exhibition openings, I am always working to make operations engaging and polished. I am a sucker for pre-planning and troubleshooting, but I wouldn’t say I’m your typical Type A. When I’m not organizing spaces for others to showcase their skills, I am either painting or formulating concepts with creative peers. Are you feeling creatively stagnant or unsure how to pull together your community for a project? Let’s get coffee. Val Sears val.l.sears@gmail.com