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Bennett says new funding will help Elk Valley artists

The ministry responsible for cultural development in B.C. has announced funding for young people involved in artistic ventures.

The ministry responsible for cultural development in B.C. has announced $6.25 million in funding for young people involved in artistic ventures.

Community, Sport, and Cultural Development Minister Bill Bennett said Thursday the funding is the first part of BC Creative Futures, a three-part strategy to grow B.C.'s creative sector.

The funding is meant to encourage young British Columbians to engage in the arts and support emerging innovative thinkers.

“Today, our government is celebrating our most abundant, precious natural resource, the wealth of imagination and creativity of our citizens,” he said. “We are blessed by internationally renowned artists and successful cultural organizations – as well as a range of dynamic creative industries, including strong digital media, television, film and video game production.”

He said the funding would be secure for the next three years.

The Kootenay East MLA said this was good news for the Elk Valley.

“There are lots of young artists in the Elk Valley who will be able to benefit from this,” he said.

The ministry describes the package as a mix of new and existing programs, which includes a scholarship program, a co-op placement program, and other initiatives to bring arts and artists into education.

The ministry said $1 million will go towards after-school sports and arts, while the BC Arts Council will distribute the other $5.25 million.

Other ministers, local politicians and members of the arts industry attended the announcement at the Vancouver Art Gallery last week.