POWELL RIVER – New Democrat MLA Nicholas Simons says more people on the Sunshine Coast will benefit from improved arts spaces and facilities thanks to the BC New Democrat government’s continued support of artists throughout B.C.
“People on the Sunshine Coast are proud of our local arts and culture scene, and want to see it continue to thrive,” said Nicholas Simons, MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast. “These grants will help preserve and enhance our arts spaces, so we can enjoy them for years to come.”
Four arts organizations in the region will be benefitting from this Arts Infrastructure funding, including:
- Deer Crossing the Art Farm in Gibsons – $70,000 for Capital Improvements
- Powell River Council for Arts and Culture – $25,000 for Consultation and Planning
- Powell River Film Society – $18,945 for Specialized Equipment
- Roberts Creek Community Association – $37,257 for Specialized Equipment
Through the Arts Infrastructure Program a total of 84 arts and cultural organizations will share in $4 million in grant funding. The program provides grants to arts and cultural organizations to develop and enhance spaces that support B.C.’s arts and cultural practitioners. Eligible activities include planning and consultation and capital improvements, such as improving safety features; increasing accessibility; or purchasing specialized equipment.
In April, the BC Arts Council introduced its Extending Foundations: Action Plan 2022-2024 which marked a shift in focus in the way the council provides funding to respond to calls to action for reconciliation, diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.
In alignment with these commitments, 50 per cent of grants in this recent round of Arts infrastructure funding was distributed to organizations from rural or remote communities or those led by or rooted in Indigenous and equity-deserving communities.
Learn More:
To learn more about these grants and see the list of recipients, visit: news.gov.bc.ca/26762