Canada Council for the Arts

Being an artist, whether one is a writer, musician or a painter requires more than just talent in one's area of specialization. In order to thrive in the arts world, one must be knowledgeable in the areas of financial management, marketing and audience development. For many Canadian artists, the Canada Council for the Arts is an essential resource providing organizations and individuals with assistance in many areas.

Created in 1957, the Canada Council for the Arts is dedicated to enabling Canadians to enjoy and create art. Through a diverse selection of grants, services, prizes, fellowships and events, the organization provides artists with assistance and promotes their art internationally. In their first year of operation, the Canada Council for the Arts provided 28 organizations with funding. The number of organizations that received funding rose in 1977 to 488 and by 2003, more than 2,000 artists and organizations received support from the Council.

Throughout its history, the Canada Council has organized a number of events that help to promote Canadian arts internationally. 'Exposed Roots' is an event where Canadian aboriginal and world music acts are presented to managers, agents, record company representatives and the media. 'Sonic Weave' is another event promoting world music. In June of 2003, six Canadian groups and artists performed at European festivals thereby generating media and audience interest internationally.

The Canada Council for the Arts offers grants to Canadian artists and organizations in many areas including dance, performance art, media arts, music, theatre, visual arts, writing and publishing. The Council also administers awards such as the Governor General's Literary Awards, the Governor General's Awards in Visual and Media Arts, and the Killam Program of Scholarly Awards. These awards help to give artists recognition for their talent and creativity.

The largest collection of contemporary Canadian art is housed within the Canada Council Art Bank. The Art Bank boasts 18,000 artworks that government and corporate clients may rent.

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