Why is the London Arts Council so great?
http://www.londonarts.ca/
Situated in the heart of city, right next to the hustle and bustle of Central library is the London Arts Council. This organisation is only 15 years young but has accomplished so much in so little time that one would presume London is a Metropolitan city with vibrant arts and exuberant culture.
It has helped many local artists to ignite their passion whether it is with just monetary means or with collaboration and networking. London Arts Council has done it all. Take for example Daniel Castillo who was once a refugee from Colombia but now is a well-established London’s stained and fused glass artist whose work has been selected on numerous occasions as well as to be part of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection Autumn Art sale. There are many more from where Daniel came from and will continue to be even more.
The question arose as to why the London Community is doing a great deal; Rebekah Morrison-Wize, program service coordinator, responded with a wise yet slightly amused-by-the-question smile- “Art is all around us, listening to the radio and taping the steering wheel while driving, dancing while cooking, performing a surgery, arguing in the court of law, watching a movie or reading a novel, they are all form of arts we don’t realise we are partaking. We eat, breath and live artistically and not many people realise this therefore we need infusion of new blood into our community for it flourish and have a feel and vibe of a metropolitan city.”
I think it will be a great tool for Londoners to use and benefit from. Here are two reasons why I think it is noteworthy;
- If you have talent, London Arts Council will do more than just point you in the right direction. Programs vary from finding resources for funding possibilities to career development advice, from lending a helping hand with networking and even getting the “buzz” going with full access to their websites and newsletter to holding annual workshops educating artists on how to survive in this fast paced era. These workshops range from contract law; living on a budget and even income tax. London Arts Council definitely walks the extra mile. This year London Heritage council has conjoined with the Arts council for a bigger and better resource center for anyone who needs it. Do Doors Open London has definitely taken advantage of this merger. http://www.doorsopenlondon.ca/home/
- London Arts Council has furnished informational, educational and networking opportunities to Londoners and its visitors over the years, dedicating its time and energy in complementing not only to the quality of life but also to the creative exuberance of London. With the help of its programs and services, it has increased our awareness of and involvement in all levels of Arts and Culture in the community.
I strongly suggest visiting the website or even in person at 251 Dundas Street, # 5194390013 for supplementary information.
Councillor Judy Bryant- Ward 13.
