November 1, 2006
OTTAWATheir Excellencies the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, and Mr. Jean-Daniel Lafond have added a forum for reflection and dialogue to the official ceremonies and presentation of the Governor General's Performing Arts Awards. Art Matters will give participants the opportunity to examine a particular artistic practice and explore its changes and challenges. The inaugural discussion on art, culture and society will take place on Friday, November 3, and Saturday, November 4, 2006, as part of the presentation of the Governor General's Performing Arts Awards.
"The Governor General's arts awards ceremonies are wonderful opportunities to honour this country's creative spirits and to highlight some of the great moments in Canadian culture," said the Governor General.
"The ceremonies give much needed encouragement to creativity by celebrating the various disciplines and are an extraordinary opportunity to bring together those who have paved the way in our artistic community and those whose young talents are beginning to emerge," added Mr. Lafond.
On November 3 and 4, Art Matters will focus on film, television broadcasting and the impact of new technologies on creativity and our society. These discussions will explore various forms of emerging technology, such as films for cell phones and the use of video (e.g. on Web sites, blogs and podcasts), and how more accessible tools for creating and disseminating art can encourage citizen expression. Finally, we will look at the power of virtual media and the influence of the imaginary world of video games.
Some thirty participantsproducers, artists and academicswill be taking part. As well, the public is invited to share its thoughts on Art Matters by visiting the Citizen Voices Web site, which is actively involved in Art Matters through a forum and a blog on creativity and new technology. Visit the site today: www.citizenvoices.gg.ca .
MEDIA ARE WELCOME TO COVER THEIR EXCELLENCIES' OPENING REMARKS ON NOVEMBER 3, AT 11:45 A.M. MEDIA INTERESTED IN COVERING THE WORKSHOPS ARE ASKED TO CONTACT THE RIDEAU HALL PRESS OFFICE.
More information on the Governor General's Performing Arts Awards and the recipients is available at www.bce.ca/ggawards.
-30-
Media informationMarilyne GuèvremontRideau Hall Press Office613-998-7280www.gg.ca
