This release was issued under a previous government.
“Calgary has always had culture in its corner,” said Heather Klimchuk, Minister of Alberta Culture and Community Services. “From its earliest days, Calgary has been recognized for its unique combination of geography, people and traditions. Calgary 2012 is a priceless opportunity to showcase that character and build partnerships to share it with the world.”
The Government of Alberta has committed up to $750,000 towards the Calgary 2012 initiative. The province is contributing $250,000 immediately, with an addition of up to $500,000 available to match corporate donations. The funding is provided through the Other Initiatives Program, which supports Alberta projects which cannot be funded under the criteria or existing funding levels of other Alberta Lottery Fund grant programs.
The federal Department of Canadian Heritage named Calgary a Cultural Capital for 2012 earlier this year, with funding to encourage sustained community support of arts and culture.
“Calgary’s Cultural Capital celebration delivers on all four goals of the province’s cultural policy: access, capacity, excellence and cultural industry,” said Calgary 2012 executive director Karen Ball. “We are thrilled to be able to work with the province to increase Alberta’s creative energy.”
“The province’s support reflects the value that we place on building richer and more vibrant communities through strengthening our cultural connections,” said Lois Mitchell, who along with her husband Douglas co-chairs Calgary 2012.
Cultural Capitals of Canada is a national program created in 2002 to recognize and support Canadian municipalities for special activities that harness the many benefits of arts and culture in community life. Calgary is the second Alberta city to be named a Cultural Capital; Edmonton was a Cultural Capital in 2007.
Media inquiries may be directed to:
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*Marie Iwanow |
Alyssa Berry |
To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.