Tourism, Culture and Recreation April 18, 2007 Province
Acquires 60 Original Works of Art The province�s collection of original works of art has been substantially enriched with the addition of 60 pieces purchased under the 2006 Art Procurement Program, demonstrating government�s continued commitment to local visual artists. The Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, announced today at The Rooms the list of 60 works acquired from 54 artists which includes stained glass, oils, acrylics, watercolors, tapestries, wood block carvings, sculptures, etchings, textiles and mixed-media works. Minister Hedderson thanked the artists who submitted works for consideration, recognizing the contribution they make to the province. "Artists and their creations are the heart and soul of cultural activity. In Budget 2006, we firmly established this role in our future by implementing the first-ever strategic cultural plan Creative Newfoundland and Labrador: The Blueprint for Development and Investment in Culture," said the minister. "The work of every artist in the province is a testament to the rich talent we have here. This program continues to contribute to their professional development and economic success." With these recent purchases, the art procurement collection has risen to a total of 2,586 pieces. The newly purchased works will be displayed in public buildings throughout the province for years to come, bringing attention and recognition to visual arts and artists of the province in the long-term. Last year, the Provincial Government announced a $125,000 budget for the program, a $50,000 increase from the previous budget of $75,000. The Art Procurement Program, established in 1982, recognizes and promotes the works of the province�s visual artists by exhibiting original art in public buildings. This program offers visual artists � amateur, emerging and established � a chance to showcase their work to a wide audience, while also increasing the public�s general awareness of the importance of arts and culture in our daily lives. The Rooms Provincial Art Gallery manages the submissions and adjudication process, as well as ongoing support and care for the acquisitions. The art procurement jury is made up of five regional representatives from the arts community. To view images of all of the works, please visit www.therooms.ca. � 30 � Media contacts:
BACKGROUNDER
2007 04 18 10:30 a.m.
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