Lindsay Mearns School of
Dance
Arts Umbrella Dance is a transformative program designed for dancers ages 2-22. As students advance through our rigorous, ballet-based program, the curriculum balances physical development with emotional and intellectual growth, providing a dance education that leaves an impact long after graduation
Understanding Our Program Areas
Meet the Artistic Director
An artistic and pedagogical authority in dance, Artemis Gordon was named Artistic Director of Arts Umbrella Dance in 1992. Since then, she has developed the program’s international recognition. Artemis has toured the Arts Umbrella Dance Company to Europe, Asia, and the United States, and fostered collaborations with companies around the world.
In 2015, Artemis secured an affiliation with Ballet BC, increasing opportunities for emerging artists and amplifying the impact of international choreographers in Vancouver. In 2016, Artemis won the YWCA Women of Distinction award in the Arts, Culture, and Design category. In 2017, she was awarded with the City of Vancouver Mayor’s Arts Awards in Dance, and most recently, in 2025, was awarded the Ken McCarter Award for Distinguished NBS Alumni.
In 2015, Artemis secured an affiliation with Ballet BC, increasing opportunities for emerging artists and amplifying the impact of international choreographers in Vancouver. In 2016, Artemis won the YWCA Women of Distinction award in the Arts, Culture, and Design category. In 2017, she was awarded with the City of Vancouver Mayor’s Arts Awards in Dance, and most recently, in 2025, was awarded the Ken McCarter Award for Distinguished NBS Alumni.
A Place For Everyone
We acknowledge that for many students, barriers exist to accessing the right care, medical diagnoses, treatments, tools, and/or medication options. Arts Umbrella strives to support students who need support whether they have a diagnosis or not.
The Arts Umbrella’s Bursary Fund also helps young artists experience the freedom of creativity by providing financial support to low- and middle-income families based on financial need.
The Arts Umbrella’s Bursary Fund also helps young artists experience the freedom of creativity by providing financial support to low- and middle-income families based on financial need.
