The Dundas Valley School of Art offers inspiration to its students through their instructors and classes. Now, thanks to a federal grant, its outdoor space will also receive a facelift so it can be equally inspiring to both artists and community members.
In an announcement at the school on January 9, Minister Filomena Tassi, who is responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, and Member of Parliament for Hamilton Mountain, Lisa Hepfner, announced a total investment of nearly $7.5 million for 31 projects across Hamilton, Halton, Haldimand-Norfolk and Brant. Five arts organizations are included among the recipients, along with a number of conservation groups and tourism projects that also receiving funding.
Funding was made possible through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) and the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF). The CCRF promises to invest $500 million over two years to support projects that build new community infrastructure and bring people back to public spaces safely. Almost $6.0 million of the funds announced yesterday come from the CCRF, distributed across 18 organizations.
The Tourism Relief Fund aims to help tourism-oriented businesses and organizations recover from the pandemic and prepare for future growth. Over $1.6 million of the nearly $7.5 million announced yesterday came from the TRF fund, distributed to 9 organizations.
The two funds work together to create jobs and enhance tourism attractions to welcome more visitors- all of which are becoming increasingly important throughout COVID-19 recovery and in the face of a potential recession.
“The investment announced today for the tourism sector and community infrastructure in the Golden Horseshoe will help to bring back visitors, modernize public spaces, and prepare for a strong future.” said Minister Tassi in a statement.
The Dundas Valley School of Art will use their $54,000 of awarded funding to upgrade the onsite community garden with the creation of a butterfly and native species garden, as well as seating and shade coverings.
“Dundas Valley School of Art is grateful to FedDev Ontario for its support in the creation of a native pollinator garden.” said Kathron Hann, the School’s Acting Executive Director. “The rehabilitation brings a beautiful welcoming space to our community neighbours, while providing a source of inspiration for art students of all ages.”
In addition to the Dundas Valley School of Art, other Hamilton arts organizations receiving funding include:
- A Pirate’s Life– $100,000 to upgrade a boat to add a new location for tourist cruises in downtown Hamilton.
- Cobalt Connects Creativity– $500,000 to broaden the scale and scope of Hamilton Winterfest, including food and art programs.
- Art Gallery of Hamilton– $750,000 to update the existing lobby, improve audible accessibility and install accessible elevators.
- Workers Arts and Heritage Centre– $75,000 to renovate the heritage-listed “Custom House” to be more accessible and energy efficient.
