Aara Macauley

Aara is an avid supporter of arts and culture in our community, with over a dozen years of professional experience in literary arts administration in operational, curation, and programming roles, with a focus on literature and writing. In addition to spearheading WordLabs under the aegis of Kingston Literacy & Skills, she works as a project advisor with CFRC Radio to enhance cultural programming on their station, and recently provided logistics support to Skeleton Park Arts Festival and KCFF. Through her involvement with Kingston WritersFest, she navigated both administrative and creative roles as Operations Manager and four years as Artistic Director. Currently, Aara sits on the City of Kingston Arts, Culture, and Heritage Advisory Committee. Previous roles include a three-year term on the the Art in Public Places Working Group, co-chair of the 2023 Mayor's Arts Award committee, chair of the 2023 Poet Laureate Working Group, and founding member of the steering committee for the Canadian Association of Literary Festivals and later a board member.