ABOUT THE NO•AD FOUNDATION
The Nike Onile Art and Design Foundation (NO•AD) is a philanthropic initiative established to honour the legacy of the late interior designer and artist Nike Onile, a Canadian of Nigerian descent and the founder of Studio Ode. Nike's groundbreaking work in design, art and Canadian media resonated globally until her passing from breast cancer in the summer of 2023.
The NO•AD Foundation’s mission is to support diverse Canadian artists and creatives as they embark on their careers. Nike’s own career journey was unique. She initially studied biotechnology. Her true calling, however, was the world of design, art and media. The NO•AD Foundation is committed to preserving and championing Nike’s vision — a vision dedicated to reshaping the boundaries of artistic expression and design.
OUR VISION
Redefine the boundaries of artistic expression and design.
OUR MISSION
Amplify innovation and artistic growth of diverse creatives.
OUR VALUES
At the core of NO•AD are values that drive our commitment to the arts and design world:
Artistic Sustainability
Support artists in building sustainable careers, ensuring their lasting contributions to the arts and design landscape.
Innovation
Activate artists who boldly push the boundaries of creativity, fostering a culture of continuous exploration.
Inclusivity
Amplify access for artists from all backgrounds and walks of life, providing opportunities for them to enter and excel in the arts and design industry.
IMPACT ACTIVITIES
Artistic and Economic Empowerment
Commitment to empowering under-served artists by providing resources and support, enabling them to transform their talents into successful and sustainable careers.
Education to Build Creative Expression
Advance arts and design education through scholarships, bursaries, awards, and financial assistance, fostering excellence in creative expression and design.
Community Collaboration
Promote collaboration and artistic growth by building community networks with artists, mentors, and industry professionals. NO•AD is a catalyst for collective creativity and innovation.
