NANAIMO – Local MLAs Sheila Malcolmson and Doug Routley are welcoming $166,480 through the province’s BC Arts Council Grant Program for community projects that will create new programs that encourage more inclusivity and accessibility in the creative sector, including those that support emerging Indigenous artists.
Budget 2019 announced an additional $15 million over the next three years to the BC Arts Council, bringing its annual budget to $34 million in 2019-20.
In addition to new programs, this investment will also enable the council to further build on the funding increase provided in 2018 to enhance the capacity of arts and culture organizations in more than 200 communities.
Recipients in Nanaimo, Ladysmith and Gabriola benefiting from this latest round of grants include:
- Nanaimo Art Gallery Society – $60,000
- Nanaimo & District Museum & Archives Society – $34,800
- Gabriola Arts Council – $38,680
- Arts Council of Ladysmith and District – $8,000
- Mid-Island Metis Nation Association- $7,000
Arts & Creative Writing Awards:
- Hilary E. Peach – $6,000
- Andromeda Romano-Lax – $12,000
MLA Quotes:
“These BC Arts Council Grants will help our community groups tell local stories and give artists more space to exhibit their work. I am proud of this investment by our government in the local arts for Nanaimo.” – Sheila Malcolmson MLA for Nanaimo.
“Investing in smaller local arts hubs in B.C. is critical to developing culture and the heart and soul of community. These grants will go a long way for the Gabriola Arts Council and the Arts Council of Ladysmith and District.” – Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan.
Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019TAC0018-000380