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An Open Letter From the Chairperson,
October 2009 Hello Everyone! During the past year I have had the opportunity to meet with many artists and cultural workers from NWT communities. Our northern artists demonstrate boundless energy and amazing resourcefulness in serving others through their art. We must acknowledge that making art and enjoying art contributes to the quality of life in our communities. I would also like to thank our Council members from Fort Simpson, Fort Smith, Norman Wells and Yellowknife. The ongoing activities of our members and of the arts office have helped to increase awareness in our communities about the arts council and the assistance it provides. This year, in reviewing ninety-seven proposals, the NWT Arts Council was inspired by the richness of talent and creativity emerging from our NWT communities. We had funding enquiries from many smaller communities, including Aklavik, Fort Good Hope, Fort Liard, Ft. McPherson, Jean Marie River, Fort Resolution, Tuktoyaktuk, Tulita and Wha Ti. The Arts Council also collaborated with Sport North on the selection of cultural delegates to the Canada Summer Games in Prince Edward Island (August 2009), and worked with the GNWT to support performance events at the 2010 Vancouver Cultural Olympiad. Through partnerships like this, we are optimistic about the growing opportunities for the growth of arts and culture here in the north, and the promotion of our artists nationally and internationally. The NWT Arts Council needs to hear more from all community-based arts organizations, and from individual artists and cultural workers. How can the NWT Arts Council serve you best, where you live? Collectively, northern artists and cultural organizations are gaining strength with a common voice about what is needed to sustain our communities. Let’s continue to ring out with that voice, loudly and clearly. Best Wishes for healthy and successful events and activities in 2009-10, Ruth Wright |
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