Cobalt Connects is a non-profit social enterprise that works throughout Ontario to spur innovative projects, policies, research and facilities that advance the creative industries and cultural sector.
Founded in 2003 through the development of artist studio spaces in Hamilton, Cobalt Connects has now played an integral role in developing over 200,000 square feet of cultural space throughout Ontario ranging from live performance venues to artist studio facilities, heritage designated properties to adaptive reuse buildings. We also play a hands-on role in managing a growing network of spaces throughout Hamilton including studios, live performances and outdoor engagement spaces.
Working alongside dozens of municipalities Cobalt Connects consults on cultural and creative industries policy related to economic development, tourism, grass-roots cultural development, marketing, sector network building and public art.
Over the past 20 years, Cobalt Connects has emerged as leader in public art development. With more than 50 projects under our belt, from murals to monumental sculptural works, Cobalt manages municipal and institutional public art programs, collaborates with artists and fabricators to create new works, and is proud to manage the Dan Lawrie International Sculpture Collection at Royal Botanical Gardens.
Bringing all of these skills and networks together Cobalt Connects is an active producer, leading festivals, events, training and public engagement actions that bring us on-the-ground expertise and understanding for working with local cultural organizations in any community.
OUR BOARD
Cobalt Connects is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors including:
Anthony Di Silvestro
Elizabeth Parker
Brydie Huffman
Michael Keire
OUR STAFF
JEREMY FREIBURGER
Cultural Strategist
As Founder and Cultural Strategist for Cobalt Connects, Jeremy’s role brings together his creative and entrepreneurial skills to bring a unique lens to cultural and creative sector development. Over the past 20 years Jeremy has led municipal cultural policy and public engagement processes, lectured and led training on community engagement and cultural capital, and spearheads Cobalt’s facility development efforts. Presently Jeremy is leading the development of The Music Hall, Hamilton Winterfest and All Our Relations.
STEVE
DE PIANTE
Production Manager
As Production Manager for Cobalt Connects, Steve’s role applies his experience in the entertainment world as a producer, performer, sound engineer, and stage manager to exciting cultural and community projects. Over his three decades long career in entertainment Steve has developed strong interests and skills in cultural and musical initiatives. From orchestral productions with Hamilton’s Brott Music Festival, to boots-on-the-ground musical acts across the country, Steve has brought countless in-person and virtual performances to life. Steve combines his people-first approach of production management with his technical acumen to ensure every project’s success.
Proudly supported by the Ontario Trillium Foundation
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations celebrates 40 years of grantmaking in Ontario and making a lasting impact in communities. Last year, OTF invested nearly $209M into 2,042 community projects and partnerships, which included funding for the Government of Ontario’s Community Building Fund. Visit otf.ca to learn more.