Canada – March 25, 2025 – In a time when Canadian identity and economic self-reliance are being championed more than ever, a new platform is stepping forward to support the heart of Canada’s creative industry: its artists. Public Display Agency (PDA) is a proudly Canadian, artist-led initiative designed to help Canadian creatives turn their practice into sustainable careers through accessible events, free learning resources, and a supportive national community.
Founded by two long-time advocates for the arts, Michelle Bylow and David Pattee, PDA was built to provide artists with meaningful opportunities to grow their careers and earn income from their creative work. Bylow, former Executive Director and Canadian license holder for a US based arts organization, explains the shift:
“We created PDA to reflect a vision that is authentically Canadian. As artists ourselves, we set out to build something that supports creative communities with purpose and integrity. PDA exists to champion Canadian talent and help artists build lasting, sustainable careers.”
With its national scope, Public Display Agency hosts multidisciplinary events across nine Canadian cities, offering visual artists, musicians, and performers curated spaces to connect with audiences and earn income. These dynamic events bring together the energy of gallery openings, live music, and community gatherings. With a focus on financial inclusivity, PDA offers flexible payment models, work-exchange opportunities, and mentorship. Musicians and performers are paid for their time, and all participants receive support from application to event day.
In addition to events, PDA offers a free Learning Portal that includes free courses and monthly live Empowerment & Development Talks. The goal is to give artists the knowledge and confidence they need to grow their practice into a thriving business.
“One of the key pillars of PDA is our events,” says Co-Founder David Pattee. “With the addition of the Learning Portal, we’re providing artists with even more tools to grow their practice. Our third pillar, financial inclusivity, ensures that every artist can showcase and sell their work, regardless of their financial situation.”
Public Display Agency is now accepting applications for upcoming events and welcomes artists to explore the Learning Portal. As a proudly Canadian initiative, PDA is committed to supporting creative growth and professional development nationwide.
Learn more at: www.publicdisplayagency.ca
Media Contact:
Michelle Bylow
michelle@publicdisplayagency.ca
