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ABOUT
Our Mission
Our mission is to establish a vibrant visual arts hub in Ottawa, deeply aligned with the city's official cultural vision as outlined by Ottawa Arts, Heritage, and Events. We are committed to enriching Canada's multicultural landscape by creating an inclusive space where art flourishes. Our programming and community projects will be strategically guided by the public calls and opportunities offered by the City of Ottawa, ensuring our contribution is both meaningful and synergistic with the region's cultural growth.
Deeply Rooted Professional Experience
We bring the professional expertise of our founder—an established artist, associate professor, and academic with nearly two decades of experience. Her work has been featured in major art exhibitions and is held in numerous collections. She is the founder of the visual art brand ARTOZEN and has served as a visiting scholar at the University of the Pacific in the United States (2009) and the University of Plymouth in the United Kingdom (2020-2023). This experience is not external but already deeply interwoven with the local arts fabric through active participation and membership in key local organizations, including the Ottawa-Gatineau Printmakers Connective (OGPC), Ottawa Mixed Media Artists (OMMA), Arfeast Ottawa, and Arts Ottawa. This foundation of collective knowledge, international connections, and established local relationships will inject unique vitality into the city's arts ecosystem.
Our Unique Approach
Our core practice involves a unique fusion of contemporary digital techniques and traditional hand-crafted artistry. We create high-quality, aesthetically compelling artworks designed to meet the growing demand for art in everyday life. By integrating fine art into commercial and residential spaces, we aim to make it more accessible, transforming environments and democratizing the experience of owning and appreciating art.
Commitment to Canada's Cultural Life
Beyond our commercial endeavours, our fundamental commitment is to make a significant and tangible contribution to the cultural life of Canada. In Ottawa, we will achieve this by:
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Launching non-profit art programs for the community.
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Collaborating with local art enthusiasts to nurture their creative potential.
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Actively seeking participation in the cultural funding programs and public art calls announced by the City of Ottawa.
Through these efforts, we aspire to foster a more vibrant, art-infused cultural landscape that is accessible and resonant for all.
Our Future Home in Ottawa
The Nepean Visual Arts Centre: A Hub of Creativity and Community
Choosing a home for our practice was about finding more than just a location; it was about discovering a vibrant ecosystem dedicated to the complete artistic journey. After extensive research, we are proud to select the Nepean Visual Arts Centre as the future hub for our workshops and services. This City of Ottawa facility is a dynamic, multicultural creative centre where art is not only made, but also shared and celebrated.
An Integrated Centre for Creation, Exhibition, and Interaction
What makes the Nepean Visual Arts Centre exceptional is its integrated approach. Here, the entire creative process unfolds under one roof. The Centre boasts custom-designed studios where artists of all ages and backgrounds, guided by accomplished professionals, can create and refine their work.
Crucially, the journey doesn't end in the studio. The Centre is home to the Studio Gallery, a dedicated exhibition space that showcases the inspiring work of its program participants. This unique fusion of creation and exhibition fosters a powerful environment of interaction—a place for dialogue between artists, students, and the community, turning a simple visit into an immersive cultural experience.
A Thriving Collective of Diverse Voices
Endorsed by the City of Ottawa, the Centre embodies a commitment to artistic excellence and inclusivity. We were drawn to its vibrant "cluster effect"—the dynamic synergy that arises when diverse creators and art lovers converge. This is where different cultures, ideas, and perspectives meet, fostering collaboration and inspiring innovation. It’s an environment where inspiration isn't just taught; it's experienced collectively.
We are incredibly excited about the prospect of joining this community and contributing our voice to Ottawa's rich cultural tapestry.
Planned Location for Our Services:
Nepean Visual Arts Centre 35 Stafford Road, Bells Corners Ottawa, ON, Canada
Our Offerings: Art, Design, and Community
Our Centre provides a multi-faceted range of products and services, designed to enrich Ottawa’s cultural landscape by bridging the gap between artistic prestige, commercial application, and community development.
The Academic Collection: Curated & Prestigious
Our Academic Collection features limited-edition artworks and derivatives defined by their exclusivity and high investment value. We understand that artistic significance is built through recognition. Therefore, our studio actively seeks opportunities for our curated pieces to be featured in major art exhibitions, providing a platform that underscores their prestige and contributes to the artist's professional journey.
Bespoke Art & Design Services: Transforming Spaces
We offer a distinctive range of commercial artworks and art derivatives, tailored to the unique aesthetic requirements of diverse environments. From sophisticated private residences to dynamic commercial spaces like hotels, resorts, and cafes, our customizable creations are designed to align with the specific ambiance of each project. By seamlessly blending advanced digital technologies with traditional hand-crafted techniques, and using eco-friendly materials, we create sustainable art that not only meets but elevates the visual identity of a space.
Community Engagement & Youth Mentorship: Aligning with Ottawa’s Vision
This is the cornerstone of our commitment to making a significant cultural contribution. Our non-profit initiatives are designed to be in direct alignment with the City of Ottawa's cultural strategy, with a special focus on nurturing the next generation of artists.
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Supporting Emerging Talent: Our programs will directly complement City of Ottawa initiatives such as the “Young Art” program
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Creating Career Pathways:
This non-profit arm, which we plan to develop into an independent organization, will champion multicultural art projects and serve as a dedicated partner to the City, ensuring that our efforts amplify Ottawa’s vibrant and inclusive cultural landscape.



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Meet Our Founders
Zhai Hai Yue
Artist
Designer
Associate Professor of Fine Arts
Director or Zhai Haiyue Studio, Haiyue Visual Artworks Studio
Creator of ARTOZEN Brand
Academic Visitor in Pacific University, USA
Academic Visitor in Plymouth University, UK















