Province making more ‘deposits’ to Art Bank

Island artists will have their work seen by more people thanks to the provincial government’s reinvestment in the province’s Art Bank.

The Art Bank acquires, loans out, and displays works by professional Island artists for public spaces. As part of its new five-year culture action plan, government will buy $20,000 worth of art this year followed by $10,000 yearly for the next four years.

“Displaying art in public buildings allows Islanders and visitors alike to appreciate the talent of local artists and the quality of their work,” Education and Culture Minister Jordan Brown said. “Reinvesting in the provincial Art Bank helps our artists continue to hone their craft and our province to enrich its culture – which is one of the things that makes us the Mighty Island.”

To be a juror or to submit art for consideration, apply at www.princeedwardisland.ca/ art-bank.

The Art Bank was created in the 1980s to encourage development of Island artists and to raise awareness and interest in visual arts. It is a working collection – with most items displayed in reception and hightraffic areas of public buildings – and it is also available for educational use.

The provincial government discontinued its investments in the Art Bank in 2014, but a key action from the culture action plan was to renew annual investments in the Art Bank.