Arts & The Economy 05/12/2011
Economic potential of arts scene emphasized Midland Mirror Fri May 6 2011 Page: 1 Section: News Byline: Andrew Philips MIDLAND - Paintbrushes, palettes and pencil crayons are just a few of the items that spring to mind when someone mentions the word "art." But area politicians would also like people to envisage dollar signs when thoughts turn to culture. Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop wants residents to broaden their thinking and focus on the huge economic engine that could be created by embracing all things associated with art. "I don't think they give it (art) any credit at all," Dunlop said during the fifth annual Huronia Foundation for the Arts (HFA) gala recently at Brooklea Golf and Country Club. Since becoming MPP in 1999, Dunlop has discovered just how many talented artists and musicians live and work in the area. "No matter where I go in the county, in my riding, there are many talented people that started their own little business," the lifelong Coldwater resident said, noting the enterprises cover the spectrum from pottery and theatre to painting and music. "These are all people who are self-sufficient, creating their own product and contributing to the economy.... People think it's just a few artists in a back woodshed, but there are a lot of people who are earning their living doing this." According to Canada Council for the Arts statistics, the impact of the arts and cultural sector in Canada - as measured by its contribution to gross domestic product - was close to $40 billion in 2003-04, with total direct employment reaching an estimated 600,000 jobs. Put another way, the figure is roughly the same as agriculture, forestry, fishing, mining, oil and gas, and utilities combined. Midland Mayor Gord McKay, who is also the HFA's past chairman, said more needs to be done to ensure the economic engine that culture represents continues to grow. "There are opportunities here we haven't tapped into," said McKay, adding the unfounded stereotype that an interest in the arts is somehow elitist is gradually being shed. "What the HFA has done is created a platform. (The arts) gets more coverage in the media. We've got the talent here." He said local residents are lucky to be in such a historically and culturally rich region. He's also excited about the future Midland cultural centre, which will house Huronia Players, Quest Art School and Gallery, and an event centre. "It will provide a stage for cultural events for years to come," McKay said, adding he hopes the downtown facility proves to be a springboard for more events that will stimulate the local economy. Tay Township Mayor Scott Warnock, an active supporter of the arts, said the new cultural centre will be great for the whole area. However, Warnock said he wants to see a greater focus on economic development of the arts in rural areas, where many of the region's artists actually live. "Any opportunity towards getting that recognition and bringing people to the area would be positive," he said, pointing out Penetanguishene's arts scene benefits from having the well-established King's Wharf Theatre at Discovery Harbour. "I would like to see something started in the rural area - maybe the development of an outreach program and (working) more closely with the schools. We need to tap into the system." One of those already "tapping" into the school system to develop the region's arts scene is Deborah Brown, founder and president of Stellula Music, an organization that has initiated songwriting clubs and brought professional musicians to schools on a regular basis. "We're making the arts more accessible," Brown said. "You have to bring the arts to the people." She added the arts scene needs the same type of corporate sponsorship normally associated with sports events to foster greater economic growth. "There's too much emphasis on sports as money-making events," she said. "We've got to get people hooked on the arts. It's an investment in our future." Brown said the arts can also be used to enhance other events, citing HFA's decision to feature both local artisans and musicians at its annual gala. "It's such a nice combination to have music and visual arts together," she said. "It's just a matter of getting people involved and the ability to see it." Add Comment The Creative Economy in Muskoka 05/12/2011
The first research study of its kind! Water, Trees and Rocks: Building Upon our Rich Resources The Creative Economy in Muskoka  Researchers: Robyn Shillit, MSc. Planning, University of Toronto Dr. Gregory Spencer, Munk School of Global Affairs, University of Toronto. Available online at www.creativemuskoka.ca/what'snew Brought to you by Creative Muskoka, Muskoka Futures and the District Municipality of Muskoka | Announcements, Invitations & News!
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