LITTLE CURRENT—A small group of Island artists, members of the Manitoulin Fine Arts Association (MFAA), gathered in front of the NEMI Welcome Centre on Thursday, October 16 to await the arrival of Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Bill Rosenberg for a very special announcement.
Board member Pam Jackson first read out a land acknowledgment to start of the proceedings.
“We acknowledge the inhabitants of this great land and express our appreciation for their hospitality and for the manner in which they care for the land, and for the opportunity we have to create a unified humanity,” said Ms. Jackson. “Turtle Island has been blessed by the artworks, words, prayers and songs of many tribes and nations.”
“The Ontario Arts Council, for those who are not aware, has for 55 years played a vital role in promoting and assisting the development of the arts for the enjoyment and benefit of Ontario,” said MFAA member Diane Carriere. “Ninety percent of Ontarians agree that arts experiences help bring people from various backgrounds together as a community. The arts contribute to a strong economy. Arts and culture in Ontario directly contribute $27.5 billion annually to the provincial economy, representing 3.3 percent of Ontario’s GDP. There are 9.5 million overnight tourists who participate in arts and culture activities while visiting Ontario, generating $3.7 billion in GDP province wide. So, we would like to thank the Ontario Arts Council for providing MFAA with a $14,000 grant for us to celebrate our Manitoulin Art Tour next year, third week of July every year, and we hope to be able to promote it by having billboards signs, more membership and workshops.”
MPP Rosenberg noted that his wife is also an artist. “So, I know they are a different bunch,” he laughed. “I know artists are different, but a good bunch. On behalf of the government, I’m very proud to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the MFAA on receiving this important grant,” continued Mr. Rosenberg. “I know your commitment to fostering artistic excellence and community engagement is truly inspiring. By investing in professional development for your members, enhancing the experience for visitors, you are strengthening the culture fabric of Manitoulin Island,” creating lasting opportunities for artists and audiences like.”
MFAA president Judy Boyd credited both Ms. Jackson and Ms. Carriere for their work in researching and applying for the OAC grant, as well as artist and poet Sophie Edwards of Kagawong for her invaluable assistance in putting the grant together.