Our Events
MASC presents a variety of annual arts festivals which feature professional artists from across the country. Which one is for you?
MASC Young Authors & Illustrators Festival
The MYAI Festival has been a beloved spring tradition for over 30 years! Open to students in grades 4 to 8, the festival invites young creatives to register for one or both days of inspiring, hands-on programming. It’s a unique opportunity to meet award-winning authors and illustrators!
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MASC SHSM Conference
MASC SHSM Conference 2026 is a one-day experiential learning opportunity designed specifically for Grade 11–12 SHSM Arts & Culture students. Taking place on February 23, 2026, at Carleton Dominion Chalmers Centre in Ottawa, the conference invites students to explore The Artist’s Toolkit – Skills for Thriving in the Arts and Culture Sector through hands-on, sector-aligned workshops in visual art, dance, music, drama, and media arts, followed by a career pathway panel with professional artists. The conference supports SHSM requirements, including Advanced Training in a Technique, career exploration, and Reach Ahead experiences, while exposing students to diverse post-secondary and workplace pathways in the arts. Cost is $100 per student, and workshops are capped at 30 students to ensure meaningful engagement and skill development.
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MASC Arts Awards
The 2026 MASC Arts Awards Festival honours passionate and creative student in Grades 6–9 for their artistic excellence. Recipients receive year-long scholarships in music, dance, theatre, visual arts, and literary arts with one of Ottawa’s leading arts organizations. Five nominating teachers are recognized with a free workshop for their classroom!
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The Jan Andrews Literary Award
This award is named to honour one of MASC’s co-founders, Jan Andrews. Jan was a storyteller and children’s author who inspired many and believed deeply in the importance of the Arts to young people. We invite students in Grades 8-12 to submit a piece of creative writing to be considered for this award; the winner will receive 20 hours of mentorship with a professional author. The mentorship will be developed between the winner and the artist.
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MASC 35th Anniversary Gala
On May 7, 2025, MASC celebrated 35 years with a vibrant Gala at the National Arts Centre, headlined by Kellylee Evans and YAO. The evening showcased the transformative power of the arts through dynamic performances by dancers, musicians, and visual artists.
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Awesome Arts
Awesome Arts en folie brings participants of all ages together to explore community interests through diverse and engaging art forms. Guided by professional artist mentors and in partnership with local organizations, the program offers a series of workshops for different age groups, culminating in the Awesome Arts Festival. Through slam poetry, animation, dance, music, theatre, and video, participants develop their creative voices—building skills, confidence, and peer connections—while reflecting on the issues that matter most in their communities.
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