Edmonton (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta has officially kicked off Month of the Artist, an annual celebration each September that shines a spotlight on the province’s thriving artistic community.
Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women Tanya Fir marked the occasion by praising the work of painters, poets, dancers, musicians, filmmakers, and storytellers who, she said, not only bring joy and inspiration but also strengthen Alberta’s cultural identity and economy.
“The arts connect communities, tell our stories, and showcase the beauty of Alberta,” Fir noted, highlighting that the sector contributes more than $1.3 billion annually to the province’s GDP and supports over 18,000 jobs.
This year’s celebration comes with record-level funding for the Alberta Foundation for the Arts. The government has increased support by $4.5 million in 2024, part of a three-year plan that will see annual investments rise to more than $43 million by 2027-28. The additional funding will provide resources for over 400 organizations and hundreds of individual artists across the province.
Fir emphasized that the investment reflects the government’s recognition of the value artists bring not only through cultural enrichment but also as drivers of economic growth and community vitality.
“As we celebrate Month of the Artist, I encourage all Albertans to take time to engage with the creativity around them — whether it’s attending a performance, visiting a gallery, or supporting local talent,” she said.
Events, exhibitions, and performances will run throughout September, offering opportunities for Albertans to experience the vibrancy of the province’s arts scene.
