Richard Toms has contributed to the arts in the Durham Region for over 20 years. As an artist, arts educator, education coordinator, print-shop supervisor, curator and Executive Director he has worked tirelessly to promote and advocate for a strong cultural mandate. He has committed himself to educating both children and adults by teaching art classes and workshops at the Station Gallery (Whitby), Community Services Department (Whitby), The City of Oshawa, The Visual Arts Centre of Clarington, Durham College and more. He has also been an active advocate regionally, provincially and federally for increased funding for the cultural sector.