Public Art Builds Stronger Communities in Atlantic Canada
News Release
Town of Montague looks to local artists to help grow economy
May 23, 2017 – Montague, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
The downtown area of Montague has experienced a revitalization in recent years, attracting new small businesses and more visitors. Support for local artists and entrepreneurs has proven to be a perfect complement to the natural tourism appeal of Eastern PEI. The Government of Canada recognizes the many wide-reaching benefits to rural economies brought about by investments in cultural tourism infrastructure that build on the strengths of the community.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Cardigan, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, today announced a Government of Canada contribution totaling $314,000 for the Town of Montague to expand the Montague Centennial Art Trail. The project will include 10 new commissioned art pieces, updated lighting, and interpretative signage for the art work in both French and English. A non-repayable contribution of $150,000 is being made through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) and $164,000 in support is being provided through the Canadian Heritage Legacy Fund.
In partnership with local development corporations and community non-profit groups, Montague has increased its commitment over the last several years to engaging residents in the culture sector. The goal is to boost the local economy, increase tourism offerings and create jobs and opportunities for local artists and businesses. After the success of Artisans on Main, a member-based community of local artisans and artists established in 2012, the Town of Montague launched the Centennial Art Trail in 2014. As part of its Canada 150 celebrations, Montague will launch the new components of the trail this coming summer.
Quotes
“Innovative social infrastructure in rural areas can take many forms. To best serve residents, creative solutions are often needed, catering to the strengths of the community. With proper support, small towns and rural regions can be incubators for skills development, and contributors to a growing sustainable economy. The Government of Canada is pleased to support this valuable project.”
The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
"The 150th anniversary of Confederation is an opportunity for all Canadians to come together in their community. Arts and culture define who we are, enrich our lives and broaden our horizons. Let’s continue to envision a future full of possibilities and contribute to our country’s growth, so we can leave a lasting legacy for future generations.”
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage
“The Government of Canada believes that investing in cultural tourism infrastructure provides many benefits to smaller communities, and we have witnessed this success in the towns and villages of Atlantic Canada. I congratulate the beautiful Town of Montague on this exciting initiative. Residents can be proud of the impressive public artwork created by local artists. It will enhance the town and help build the local economy for years to come.”
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-food and Member of Parliament for Cardigan
“The Town of Montague is extremely excited to be celebrating our Centennial year in 2017. The support of the Federal Government is going to ensure we have a lasting legacy in the Town marking this occasion. The expansion of our Art Trail will help beautify the Town, and attract new visitors to Montague. The economic spinoffs from this project will be felt by all businesses in the Town and surrounding areas. We look forward to seeing everyone out to celebrate Montague's 100th and Canada’s 150th anniversaries together!”
Richard Collins, Mayor, Town of Montague
Associated Links
Contacts
Chris Brooks
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569
Valerie Roy
Regional Communications Manager
Canadian Heritage - Atlantic Region
506-850-2556
Andrew Rowe
Events Coordinator
Town of Montague
902-838-2528