Here's a cool idea that I've noticed a number of arts-based initiatives and galleries trying out: meal-based funding. The concept is pretty straightforward. By getting a group of people together for a meal in support of a given project — be it an artist, gallery, or some other project — it should be possible to raise a little bit of money and foster a level of engagement that's not generally achieved at your standard show opening.

That's just what Toronto's Art Spin series hopes to accomplish with crEATe, a community fundraiser at which guests will be served a three course meal and listen to artists pitch project proposals for the 2011 season of bike-based gallery-going. After the proposals have been made, attendees will get a chance to vote on the pitch they deem most worthy, and the winner will get the proceeds of the event.

Although fundamentally limited as a fundraising effort (a dinner is only going to net so much money), I suspect interactive dinners like these will become more popular as galleries and other arts groups look to fund specific projects and other small initiatives. What do you think? Would you pay 45 bucks for a three-course meal and the privilege to determine some arts programming?

Tickets are available via Art Spin's website or by emailing info@artspin.ca. crEATe will take place on Wednesday, June 8th at Lula Lounge at 1585 Dundas St. W.

Photo via Art Spin