Leveraging the Central Region's cultural and creative diversity as a vehicle for economic development, the Exploits Valley Economic Development Corporation (EVEDC), with support from the Provincial Government, is holding a series of events with artists from August 6-8. The EVEDC will use the $36,000 Provincial Government investment to help co-ordinate these inaugural events that are focused on building awareness of Art Ex 2011, a celebration that will attract artists from across Canada to communities throughout the Central Region.

Identification of this opportunity originated from a collaborative exercise between key stakeholders in the Exploits Valley and various levels of government on how to best leverage the region's culture and heritage.

"Investments in arts and cultural programming hold considerable potential in the economic and social development of communities," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "In the central region, in collaboration with our regional partners, we see arts and cultural programming as a valuable means of contributing to economic growth — it directly and indirectly helps generate income, employment, tax revenue, and also creates visibility for the region."

Events scheduled for August 6-8, will consist of workshops, artist's talks/circles, public showcasing of artwork, and interactive community-based art events. Events will be held in Botwood, Grand Falls-Windsor, Leading Tickles, Millertown, and Norris Arm.

"Art Ex is an opportunity for artists and art enthusiasts to celebrate the rich tradition of visual arts in the Exploits Valley," said Cyril Langdon, Chair, EVEDC. "We encourage any interested citizens and visitors to participate in the innovative activities that will be offered throughout the region."

In 2011, Art Ex will build a broader audience for the visual arts in the region by promoting an awareness of local talent, showcasing visual art and encouraging residents to take ownership of their visual culture. It will also provide an opportunity for artists and art professionals, from the province and across Canada, to come together to share ideas and processes and build professional relationships with their contemporaries working in other geographic locations.

"Art Ex is an exciting initiative and is one that offers long-term benefits for the region," said Minister Skinner. "As the initiative grows, a greater number of visitors will take in local art experiences and encourage participation from area residents. In other markets, a vibrant arts community has also helped contribute to the region's quality of life in making local communities more attractive to live, work, and do business."

This initiative was funded through the Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund, which through Budget 2010: The Right Investments — For Our Children and Our Future was increased to an $11 million program. Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, the program provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and diversification.

For event scheduling, please visit www.exploitsvalley.nf.ca or call 709-489-8700.

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