Month of the Artist: Minister Miranda | Le ministre Ricardo Miranda déclare le « Mois des artistes »

Ricardo Miranda, Minister of Culture and Tourism, issued the following statement to kick off Alberta’s first Month of the Artist:

Alberta artists such as dancers and musicians are an important part of our culture, and they along with the rest of the arts community are being honoured this month.

“Art and artists are a vital part of our culture. They make our province a great place to live, visit and raise a family. Month of the Artist is a time to recognize and celebrate the important contributions Alberta artists bring to our province both socially and economically.

“Alberta is the first province in Canada to dedicate a month to celebrate artists. It is a way to raise awareness of the challenges artists face and the value they bring to our province. Art is work. Art creates jobs, and art contributes to our growing economy.

“Alberta’s artists are storytellers, innovators, entrepreneurs, community builders, teachers and mentors. Art helps create conversations and builds relationships between people and communities.

“Throughout January, I encourage everyone to learn more about the people behind the art in their community and to find ways to support local artists. Our province is full of amazing events that feature work by Alberta artists. Take in a show at your local theatre. Visit an art gallery. Go to a concert. Or try something new and let your creativity blossom.

“I am proud that our government is supporting the hard-working artists who build Alberta’s rich social fabric and our economy. I hope everyone enjoys Canada’s first Month of the Artist.”

Quick facts

• In 2016, 44,880 Albertans worked in the arts, entertainment and recreation. (Source: Statistics Canada, National Household Survey, 2016).
• According to Statistics Canada estimates, Alberta exported $777.5 million of culture products in 2016.
• In 2016, there were 1.4 million domestic overnight visits to Alberta that included arts and culture activities. (Source: Statistics Canada: 2016 Travel Survey of Residents of Canada).
• In 2016, visual and applied arts and live performance industries in Alberta contributed about $1.3 billion in GDP. (Source: Statistics Canada, Provincial and Territorial Culture Indicators, 2010 to 2016).
• In 2016, Alberta spent $4,112 per household on culture and recreation goods and services, which was $632 higher than the national average of $3,480. (Source: Statistics Canada, Survey of Household Spending, 2016. Prepared by Alberta Culture and Tourism).
• In 2017-18, the Alberta Foundation for the Arts provided $24.1 million through 823 grants to organizations for operations and projects, as well as $3.1 million through 333 individual arts grants to support their activities.