The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria received $50,000 from the Government of British Columbia, Community Sport and Cultural Development Minister Ida Chong announced today.

The funding comes from the 2010 Sport and Arts Legacy, created to continue the celebration of community spirit so evident during the 2010 Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Since first opening in 1951, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria has presented inspiring opportunities for people and visitors to the region to experience great art. With over 17,000 works of art, the gallery owns one of the largest public art collections in British Columbia. It continues to present diverse exhibitions showcasing Canadian and international art, including contemporary work.

For over 60 years, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria has successfully assembled significant art collections and continues to play a key role in the cultural life of the region and beyond.

The gallery receives regular funding from the government of British Columbia through the BC Arts Council (BCAC) and community gaming grants.

BCAC supports arts and culture in communities throughout the province. Since 2010-11, the BCAC has approved $507,100 in grants for the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, including:

• $257,100 in 2010-11.

• $250,000 in 2011-12.

In 2011-12, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria received $85,000 in community gaming funds.

Quotes:

Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria has established a strong tradition of community outreach. Approximately 10,000 students in 50 schools from Sooke to Salt Spring Island participate in 'Gallery in the Schools', a program that helps young people appreciate art and develop creative thinking."

"The gallery is a hub of creativity that draws people of all ages together to enjoy diverse and exciting art exhibitions. I congratulate the gallery for its emphasis on connection to local communities and families through very successful outreach activities."

Jon Tupper, director, Greater Victoria Art Gallery -

"This financial support from the government of British Columbia allows us to fulfill our mandate of bringing art to our community. We are particularly pleased that young people will be the beneficiaries of the grant with increased art education opportunities through an innovative mentorship program for youth called Street SmArt and an elementary school Artist in Residence program."

Quick Facts:

• During 2011-12, the B.C. government provided more than $53 million in arts funding.

• Since 2001, the BC Arts Council has granted $169 million to artists and cultural organizations in British Columbia.

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has provided more than $2.6 billion in support for arts and culture in British Columbia, including the screen-based entertainment industry.

Learn More:

Check out the provincial government's role in supporting sport, arts and culture through the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development at: http://www.gov.bc.ca/cscd

Find out more about the BC Arts Council at: http://www.bcartscouncil.ca

Explore the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria at: http://aggv.ca

Contact:

Jeff Rud
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677