Renascence Arts and Sustainability Society (RASS)

The Renascence Arts and Sustainability Society (RASS) is a non-profit arts organization based in the micro-rural community of Ymir, British Columbia, near Nelson in the Salmo Valley. It is located on the unceded lands of the sn̓ʕay̓ckstx (Sinixt), Yaqan Nukiy, Ktunaxa, and Okanagan Nation Alliance. Founded in 2014, RASS was created to use the arts as a catalyst for change in rural spaces, fostering equity, sustainability, and community connection through inclusive arts programming.

Our mandate is to cultivate awareness and build local capacity by connecting artists and residents through creation, mentorship, and collective learning. We believe that access to the arts is fundamental to vibrant rural life and that creative collaboration can strengthen social and environmental resilience.