MP Patrick Brown announces investment in the Maclaren Art Center

December 08, 2011

Good evening.

I am delighted to be here today at this beautiful art gallery on behalf of the Government of Canada and the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Arts and culture organizations like the MacLaren Art Centre contribute to the cultural strength of our communities and enrich the quality of life of all Canadians.

An award-winning facility, the MacLaren Art Centre is recognized for integrating the visual arts and culture into the community through its exhibitions and education and outreach activities.

This is why I am pleased to announce that our Government will invest $240,000 in the MacLaren Art Centre. The funding will allow the Centre to upgrade its facilities with a more efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, which will stabilize humidity levels and temperatures in its gallery and collection storage spaces.

The investment announced today will enable the gallery to continue its diverse exhibition programming and the showcasing of exceptional works of art.

The new system will qualify the gallery to borrow works from institutions that require strict temperature controls; this will further expand and improve exhibition programming.

Today’s announcement demonstrates yet again our Government’s support for arts and heritage organizations. By investing in projects like this one, our Government is delivering on its commitment to provide Canadians with increased access to arts and heritage spaces in their communities.

Unlike other countries and governments, our Government stood up for arts and culture when it was needed most and chose not to cut, but to increase funding for arts and culture during the recession.

Our Government is serious about supporting organizations, like the MacLaren Centre, that contribute not only to their communities’ cultural life, but also to the economy.

The Government of Canada recognizes that arts and culture are important generators of economic growth, jobs, and wealth in our communities. We know that arts and culture represent $46 billion in the Canadian economy and more than 630,000 jobs.

In closing, I would like to congratulate the management, staff, and volunteers at the MacLaren Art Centre for their continued efforts to maintain and expand this beautiful art gallery. Keep up the great work!

 

Thank you.