The Creative Exchange | RCA Community Program

The Creative Exchange is a community-driven gathering designed to foster connections between creators of all disciplines. Originally developed by artist Mackenzie Perras in Kelowna, this initiative encourages collaboration, cross-pollination of ideas, and organized outreach among artists, makers, and innovators. With Perras now pursuing his artistic career in Vancouver, the Rotary Centre for the Arts is proud to continue hosting The Creative Exchange every second Tuesday from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

The Creative Exchange is an open mic and networking event designed for creators of all kinds to connect, share, and grow. It’s a space where artists can discuss their work with like-minded individuals, spark fresh ideas, and overcome creative challenges together.

Since launching just a year ago , the Creative Exchange has flourished, attracting a vibrant community of creators and supporters. Our monthly attendance continues to climb, and we’ve gained over 400 local followers on social media in just five months—growth that shows no signs of slowing down!

Our events have showcased an incredible range of talent and creativity:
- Architects, sculptors, and painters sharing their visionary projects.
- Beat poets and musicians captivating audiences with live performances.
- App developers innovating ways to share and purchase art.
- Event planners designing new music festivals.
- Authors launching their latest books.
- Interdisciplinary art jams bringing unique collaborations to life.

The Creative Exchange welcomes both emerging and professional creators who are actively shaping the Okanagan’s creative landscape. Whether you’re here to present your work, find inspiration, or connect with other passionate individuals, this is the place to be.

Each Creative Exchange is a free, public event moderated by an RCA facilitator. The format is simple and open-ended:
- Anyone attending may share their work, ideas, or creative journey.
- The environment is supportive rather than critical—people of all experience levels are encouraged to participate.
- A flexible time limit ensures that all voices have the opportunity to be heard.

Participants are encouraged to introduce themselves, briefly present their practice, and share what they’ve been working on. If comfortable, they can ask their peers for feedback. The goal is to create meaningful in-person interactions, bridging the isolation that many artists experience due to long studio hours or remote work. Since each session attracts a different mix of attendees, every Creative Exchange is a unique and inspiring experience.

Above all, The Creative Exchange is a space for creative inspiration and collaboration. As we continue this legacy at RCA, we invite you to join us in strengthening the artistic community—sharing, learning, and growing together.

See you soon, makers!

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