Evan Taylor – President – Elected February 2022

Evan is a registered architect at Architecture49.

“It is an honour to contribute to an organization that supports spaces for the arts and artist communities which make our city special.”

Philip Bobby (He/Him) – Treasurer – Elected February 2021

Philip is a Chartered Professional Accountant and manager at Fort Group Chartered Professional Accountants where he specializes in assurance engagements for non-profit, private company and first nation communities. 

Committees: Fundraising Committee

Philip lives in the downtown area and understands the importance and impact that arts and culture can have on the surrounding community.

Barb Besner – Director – Elected February 2024

Barb is a planner with a background in research, policy, non-profit governance, and arts administration. She is currently Research and Governance Manager at United Way Winnipeg.

Cody Chomiak- Director – Elected February 2024

As Vice President of Marketing for Travel Manitoba, Cody leads marketing strategies that catapult Manitoba into the global spotlight. His innovative approach leverages cutting-edge marketing trends to propel visitation to the province, bolstering its reputation as a premier destination.

As the former Vice President of Industry Engagement at Bandwango, Cody championed the use of mobile technology to craft immersive experiences for destinations across North America. His expertise in brand-building, product enhancement, and client support fueled the digital tourism landscape.

Cody’s tourism career started with over a decade as the Director of Marketing for Economic Development Winnipeg and Tourism Winnipeg. His strategic prowess manifested in award-winning campaigns that drew investment, talent and visitors alike.

A Certified Destination Management Executive, Cody continues to shape the industry’s future. He serves on the CDME and DMAP boards through Destinations International, as well as working with Destination Canada through their Northstar and 10X networks.

Committees: Fundraising

Jordan Stranger – Director – Elected February 2023

Jordan works as a full-time self-employed visual artist and graphic designer operating under his own brand, Totem Doodem.
Currently, he is creating a new series of paintings and installations for a future art exhibition titled “Manitou”.

“I believe in an inclusive space for all artists to make their mark and follow their dreams.”

Layla Freig- Director – Elected February 2023

Layla is a financial, strategic and creative consultant. She specializes in fashion, but works across all sectors, helping businesses build, grow and scale. She also works directly with emerging visual artists to help them build their brands and put on shows across Canada.

“I believe in the importance of investing in creativity to build happy and healthy communities, foster artistic ability and success, and promote representation. Artspace does exactly that by providing artists of all mediums and creative outlets, with a space and platform to develop their business in.”

Louise Smith (She/Her), BA, MBA, ICD.D – Director – Elected February 2019

Louise works in strategic planning, change management, research and strategic communications. She has held roles in publishing, financial services and government and is currently VP, Strategy and Engagement at Credit Union Central of Manitoba. Louise has served on various not-for-profit boards in the arts and social services, including long service on the board of the Winnipeg International Writers’ Festival. She holds the Institute of Corporate Directors’ ICD.D designation, continues to pursue board governance learning, and works regularly with boards on strategic matters.

Committees: Governance Committee

“Every city needs space for art, the people who make art and those who support them. The organizational purpose of Artspace is to address that need.“

Erica Charron – Secretary – Elected February 2024

Erica is the founder/principal at Elle Community Strategies, bringing tailored facilitation, consultation, and research services to nonprofits and businesses looking to enhance their impact within their local communities.

Adam Wrublowsky – Director – Elected February 2024

Bio coming soon

Richard Bars – Director – Elected February 2020

Richard is an associate lawyer in the advocacy department of MLT Aikins LLP, practising in the areas of civil, commercial, and construction litigation, as well as professional regulation. He has a long history of volunteering in the Winnipeg arts community and has worked with artists both locally and internationally.

“Artists and arts organizations need spaces to flourish, and it is a privilege to be able to be part of an organization that helps meet that need in our community.”

Evan Sinclair – Director – Elected February 2022

Evan is a professional urban planner and longtime skateboarder

Committees: Fundraising

“Our local arts community is essential for so many reasons – from animating our urban spaces to strengthening our economy to showcasing our diverse cultural landscape. By providing space and resources to this community, Artspace plays an important role in its continued success.”