ArtExpert.ca, an independent consulting firm, has been awarded a contract to undertake a strategic and operational review of provincial Arts and Culture Centres in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, said the review is intended to provide recommendations to the Provincial Government on the general operations of the province�s six regional Arts and Culture Centres, and how they can be more accessible and relevant to the communities they serve.

"Our culture is central to our social and economic success as a province and as a people," Minister Jackman said. "Our Arts and Culture Centres support our local artists, foster cultural development in our communities, and also provide us with an opportunity to be introduced to national and international artists."

The consultant�s work will be guided by an advisory committee composed of representatives of the Provincial Government and the cultural community.

"There will also be a series of meetings across the province to provide an opportunity for representatives of the arts community, and others, to provide their input into how we can better integrate our Arts and Culture Centres into our overall plans to develop, protect and promote cultural initiatives in this province," Minister Jackman said.

In 2006, the Provincial Government released a cultural strategy: Creative Newfoundland and Labrador � The Blueprint for Development and Investment in Culture, which committed $17.6 million in new funding to the culture and heritage sectors over a three-year period. As part of that strategy, Budget 2007 committed $75,000 for the development of a strategic plan for Arts and Culture Centres.

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Media contact:
Heather May
Director of Communications
Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation
709-729-0928, 697-5061
heathermay@gov.nl.ca

2008 01 18                                                    4:10 p.m.