City Continues to Invest in Artists and Art Organizations

Wednesday, March 13, 2013 - 1:00 PM
Mural in St. John's

Each year, the City of St. John’s invests in its thriving arts community through the Grants to Artists and Arts Organizations program.

In February, 2013, a jury composed of artists and council representation met and allocated funding to artists and arts organizations in St. John’s. On March 11, Council approved the jury’s recommendations.

Artists and arts organizations in all disciplines were considered and supported, in the categories of visual art, performing arts (theatre and dance), music, film and literary arts.

“Supporting arts and cultural development in St. John’s benefits the entire community,” says Deputy Mayor Shannie Duff, Chair of the City’s Arts Advisory Committee and one of the 2013 jurors. “It enhances our quality of life, contributes to economic growth, and is a significant part of what makes St. John’s a unique and desirable destination for visitors. The diversity of arts projects and activities planned for 2013 in St. John’s is impressive. Our city is home to astounding artistic talent and we’re proud to make this investment in our local arts community.”

The City of St. John’s is pleased to support the local arts community through its overall arts strategy developed in the City’s Municipal Arts Plan. The Support of the Arts Community Policy is one part of this strategy and was passed by Council in 1989 and a jury first met in 1990 – over 20 years ago. The fund increased this year to $178,000. The 2013 Grants to Artists and Arts Organizations has provided support to 22 arts organizations and 82 individual artists.

For further information:
Jennifer Mills
Communications Officer
City of St. John’s
Phone: (709) 570-2037
Cell: (709) 690-7586
E-mail: jmills@stjohns.ca

Shannie Duff
Deputy Mayor
Chair, Arts Advisory Committee
City of St. John's
Phone: (709) 576-5260
Cell: (709) 691-1869
E-mail: sduff@stjohns.ca