Facilitating Cross-Border Arts Support for More than 40 Years
The Council for Canadian American Relations was created in 1972, originally as the American Friends of Canada, at the instigation of the late philanthropist Bluma Appel, and through the guidance of the late David Rockefeller and the late Prime Minister of Canada, The Right Honourable Pierre Elliott Trudeau.
CCAR produces programs that showcase cross-border collaborations and honor cultural achievement. Our activities bring Canadians and Americans together in forums that foster "Friendship Through the Arts" between the two countries.
We represent a consortium of stakeholders in Canada and the United States, many of whom are leaders in culture, philanthropy, business and public life.
Anthony Caro, 1924-2013. Bitter Sky, 1983. Steel and painted steel. Gift of James H. Ottaway Jr., The Horace W. Goldsmith foundation, and the Ralph E. Ogden Foundation. Photograph by Jerry L. Thompson. ©Storm King Art Center, Mountainville, New York. Courtesy of Barford Sculpture Ltd.
CCAR's 15 Honorary Directors are comprised of leaders of distinguished arts institutions in Canada and the United States.
In 2014, we celebrated our 40th Anniversary with a special Gala in New York City. The Consul General of Canada in New York partnered with us to present the inaugural Awards for Distinguished Contributions to the Arts in Canada and the Unites States. Honorees were Jacqueline Desmarais and Frank O. Gehry.
In 2016, CCAR initiated an annual program of cross-border scholarships to support students in the fields of visual arts and music.
We hosted our second Gala in New York City in the fall, 2017. More than 300 guests attended from across Canada and the United States. The Awards for Distinguished Contributions to the Arts in Canada and the United States were presented to Frank Stella and The Honourable Hilary M. Weston. CCAR’s Award of Service was presented to Norman Jewison. As a result of the evening, CCAR provided cash grants to arts organizations selected by the honorees. GALA 2017 marked the capstone celebration of the 150th anniversary of Canada in the United States.
CCAR will host its next Gala in spring, 2019, in New York City.
CCAR advances the public’s appreciation of the arts by conducting programs and activities all devoted solely and exclusively in support of arts and cultural institutions functioning in and between Canada and the United States.