SURREY – Local New Democrat MLAs Rachna Singh and Harry Bains are welcoming $235,227 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.
“We recognize the immense value these arts organizations bring to our community in Surrey” said MLA Singh. “The importance of supporting our local artists and arts organizations cannot be overemphasized.”
“Our government recognizes that all citizens benefit when our arts and culture sector has the resources it needs to thrive” said MLA Bains. “I’m very happy that these grants are going to artists and organizations that make such important contributions to the cultural life of our city.”
Recipient organizations in Surrey benefiting from this latest round of grants include:
- Arts Council of Surrey—receiving $33,000
- Surrey Art Gallery—receiving $96,000
- Now Or Never Publishing—receiving $29,241
- Surrey Museum and Archives—receiving $32,480
- Semiahmoo Arts Society—receiving $23,406
- Selkirk Concert Society—receiving $7,000
Individuals receiving Arts, Creative Writing, and Professional Development Grants:
- Jeff Beamish—receiving $6,000
- Agamdeep Darshi—receiving $3,600
- Chelsea DesLauriers—receiving $4,500
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.
Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/19152