Our Organization

We are Cultural Expressions for CHANGE – Celebrating our Heritage, the Arts, and Nurturing Generations through Engagement – a nonprofit corporation serving Durham Region.

Our Vision

A thriving Durham community brought together through respect of cultural diversity and the Black experience.

Our Mission

To provide programming focused on the Black experience that fosters cross-cultural understanding and harmony among Durham Region residents.

Our Values 

  • We are caring – we have empathy for others, treat others with respect and work to reap the good that we sow
  • We are collaborative – we harness the power of our resources and partner with others for the betterment of all
  • We are knowledge seekers – we seek to understand our past and who we are today to inform/ guide? our future
  • We are welcoming – we value the lived experiences of all
  • We are nurturing – we aim to uplift others to be their best

 Our History

Cultural Expressions Art Gallery operated in the historic and picturesque Pickering Village of the Town of Ajax from year 2006. Owner Esther Forde curated works, including unique paintings and wood and stone sculptures, from both established and up-and-coming international artists. The Gallery crossed borders, removing boundaries in  mission to open the hearts and minds of visitors to other perspectives.

The Gallery was also a place to gather, not only for art exhibitions, but also for a variety of cultural celebrations year-round. As events grew in number, an appropriate umbrella was required and Cultural Expressions Art Gallery Inc., a nonprofit corporation, was formed in year 2006. It is worth noting that Cultural Expressions was one of the first non-Indigenous organizations to host events in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a testament to the organization’s longstanding commitment to honour the rich cultural diversity of Durham Region and to connect all residents through events and educational programming.

In 2000, Cultural Expressions presented its first Black History Month celebration.  Over the years, the annual event outgrew its many homes, first the Gallery, then the Town of Ajax Town Hall. In recent years, the February event has attracted capacity audiences, branding it as the largest Black History Month celebration in Durham Region.

In 2021, Cultural Expressions fulfilled a dream to launch a post-secondary arts scholarship to support the next generation of creatives. This was another step in efforts to encourage arts-oriented studies at the college and university level and nurture artistic expression.

 In 2023, Cultural Expressions took stock and rebranded to ensure a clear focus on its future growth. It rebranded as Cultural Expressions for CHANGE – Celebrating Heritage, Arts & Nurturing Generations through Engagement – with refreshed mission and vision statements.

Thanks to the strong bonds that have been forged by founder Esther Forde across the Region and with many levels of government, Cultural Expressions has had the privilege to be represented at many tables where the future of the Region has been discussed.

We are proud of this legacy and continue to work every day to build on it and honour and contribute to the richness of Durham Region.

TESTIMONIALS

"Visiting the art gallery was an incredible experience. The collection was diverse and thought-provoking, and the space itself was beautifully curated. I left feeling inspired and enriched." - Sarah W.

"The art gallery showcases exceptional talent and creativity. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, providing valuable insights into the artists and their works. It's definitely a must-visit for art enthusiasts." - David M.

"I was blown away by the art gallery's ability to showcase both established and emerging artists. The atmosphere was welcoming, and I found myself immersed in the beauty of the artworks. I can't wait to return for more inspiration!" - Lisa S.

"The art gallery exceeded my expectations. The artworks were displayed with great attention to detail, and the lighting created a captivating ambiance. It's a hidden gem that shouldn't be missed." - Robert P.