Call for Volunteers: Vancouver Art Book Fair Board of Directors

Vancouver Art Book Fair (registered as OCW Arts & Publishing Foundation) is a not-for-profit organization committed to the advancement, appreciation and circulation of artists’ publishing. Through community-focused public programming, we provide inclusive platforms to deepen engagement with artists’ books and connect local and international communities. 

Staff and Board Members work for Vancouver Art Book Fair to actively lead the development of the international community of art book publishers, makers and appreciators, furthering art literacy as well as the establishment of art books as an artistically and socially relevant medium.

VABF operates on unceded, traditional and ancestral xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilw̓ətaʔɬ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) territories.

We are currently looking to fill a limited number of vacancies on the Board of Directors with dedicated and enthusiastic area-based members with the following skill sets: fundraising, accounting/financial management, strategic planning, governance, advocacy, community development and Indigenous cultural competency. 

The role of Board Members is to provide stewardship, governance and direction for the organization’s activities. Directors are not responsible for the day-to-day operations or artistic direction of the organization; however, Directors may be asked to support VABF leadership and contractors with various tasks and activities in their realm of expertise. Currently, VABF Board Members are working collaboratively with staff to shape the organization’s policy and procedures as it grows from a founder-led to a staff-led initiative.

Participating in Board activities is a rewarding experience and provides an opportunity to develop new skills, make connections and contribute to an emerging community of artists, writers and designers interested in publication as well as the wider Vancouver arts community.

Vancouver Art Book Fair is committed to supporting and providing leadership positions to people who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized in art spaces (BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+, people with disabilities, people with lived experiences of poverty). We will prioritize applications from underrepresented communities. 

Duties of Board Members:

• attend Board meetings, which will be held at least once a quarter at an agreed-upon location (members may also join via phone or online);
• attend the Annual General Meeting;
• help to shape the organization’s policy and procedures;
• serve on at least one Board committee;
• volunteer at and/or attend Board fundraising events or initiatives;
• attend and volunteer at the annual Vancouver Art Book Fair;
• attend and support other events held by the organization, including promotion on social media;
• maintain a good understanding of VABF's constitution, mandate, vision and values and adhere to the Code of Board Conduct; and
• represent and advocate for the organization in the community and at meetings with potential partners and stakeholders.

VABF Board Members are expected to commit 5–10 hours a month depending on committee work and attendance at events.

Board Members are expected to serve at least a two-year term.

Board Members living outside of Vancouver may attend meetings remotely and are excused from fair attendance requirements.  

Ideal candidates will:

• have previous experience on a Board of Directors;
• have knowledge in at least one of these fields: fundraising, cultural granting programs and streams, accounting/financial management, capacity building, strategic planning, governance, advocacy, community development or Indigenous cultural competency;
• have previous experience volunteering or working with local arts and publishing organizations, including Art Book fairs, non-profits, artist-run spaces or other comparable forms such as demonstrated experience in the non-profit sector;
• possess a passion for the arts, literature, design and/or publishing;
• demonstrate commitment, leadership, decision-making skills and integrity, as well as adhere to the values of the organization; and
• be community-minded and possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.

To apply:

Please send an e-mail to with the subject line “Application: VABF Board of Directors” and include a cover letter stating your interest in the organization, your experience and personal interests, and your relevant skill sets, as well as a resume. 

Please note only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. 

Deadline: Open Until Filled