Andrew David Terris (1943–2025)

Arts Advocate, Cultural Visionary, and Creative Force

Andrew David Terris, a tireless champion of artists and cultural programs and Honorary Lifetime Director of NSTT, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025 at the age of 82, and was surrounded by close friends, love and dignity. He is survived by his beloved wife Janice Isabel Jackson.

In his memory, Andrew’s family and friends are establishing a special award with the Nova Scotia Talent Trust to honour his lifelong commitment to the arts.  To contribute to Andrew's legacy award, please visit our donation page.  

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Born in Albany, New York, Andrew was the son of Doctors Milton Terris and Rema Lapouse. He studied at Antioch College, the University of Edinburgh, and McGill University, moving permanently to Canada in 1971. Settling in rural Cape Breton, he embraced communal living and co-founded a stained-glass studio and shop on the Cabot Trail with his late partner Rejene Stowe. In 1982 Andrew and Rejene moved to Halifax and opened a glass arts studio where they produced large-scale commissions and artworks for national and international exhibitions. Andrew’s leadership extended beyond the studio. As Executive Director of Visual Arts Nova Scotia (1992–1997), Andrew launched major initiatives including a biennial juried exhibition of Nova Scotian artists in partnership with the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, and a province-wide artists-in-schools program. During a recent interview he reflected that moving to Canada was one of the best decisions he ever made.

Andrew’s influence deepened through cultural policy work. His landmark ARTS NOVA report (1990) led to the creation of the Nova Scotia Arts Council, for which he helped draft model legislation. He later directed the Nova Scotia Cultural Network, spearheading the province’s first culture strategy and advocating passionately for the arts community. Andrew led the lively and influential public protests when the Arts Council was abruptly dismantled by the provincial government in 2002.

In 2000, Andrew met the second great love of his life, the gifted soprano Janice Isabel Jackson. He was an enthusiastic supporter of Janice’s career, and made important contributions to Vocalypse Productions, the Halifax-based non-profit organization that Janice is the Artistic Director of. Working with Janice in Vocalypse, Andrew helped present unique and exciting musical events, expanding the boundaries of contemporary classical vocal music. His support and encouragement for Janice’s work was a caring expression of his enduring love for music.

Andrew continued his advocacy and policy work through the creation of ARTS NOVA Cultural Research and Consulting, where he advised organizations across Canada and served on national boards, including the Canadian Conference of the Arts. He co-founded Nova Scotia CAN! (Cultural Action Network), producing pivotal reports that shaped the province’s creative economy agenda. During this period, he regularly published important cultural updates through his the ARTS NOVA Bulletin.

In later years, Andrew turned to photography and video, exploring the beauty of everyday objects and documenting live performances in dance, music,

 and theatre. He also traveled widely including trips to Morocco, Costa Rica, Berlin, and Amsterdam.  
Andrew was a mentor, collaborator, and friend to many. His legacy endures in the institutions he built, the artists he uplifted, and the cultural landscape he helped shape. 

Rest well, Andrew. Your voice, guidance and life shine brightly for us all.