Funding will support next generation of Aboriginal artists

When art is taught in class, that's the day kids will come to school, according to Ontario Arts Council executive director John Brotman, who praises the provincial government for injecting a $60 million annual investment by 2010 to his organization.
What really excites Bronfman is that the funds will allow for increased ability for arts education and creating partnerships to foster creative expression in youth, Aboriginal and culturally diverse-communities and emerging artists ­ whether they are in school or in working in the community.
"The next generation of artists must be supported and we will do a fair bit or outreach to Simcoe County and Barrie to make sure young people consider a career in the arts," Brotman said in a press release.
"There's been a fair amount of research over the past 10 years throughout the world that shows that kids' performance in some subjects will improve. What we have found out from our pilot program in three Ontario school boards this year) the days when artists are in the school, truancy rates go down."
The key to the program is partnerships with school boards, which can provide the oversight ­ that is school principals ­ and art teachers, who can evaluate student progress and work collaboratively with the artists, he explained.
The pilot program enables school boards to work with artists to create a cohesive arts program that inspires kids, he said.
"Rather than the usual scenario in which boards "cobble together" a program. It's a win-win, he pointed out, with provincial grants supporting truly creative, lasting relationships.
The funds will allow for expansion of community arts programs for young Aboriginal people, and to continue programs offered through arts organizations and galleries.
Ontario culture minister Aileen Carroll said her government considers the investment in the OAC an investment in Ontario, its people and its economic prosperity.