The Durham West Arts Centre is a 'hub' organization working to establish links with artists, arts groups and arts lovers. We host exhibitions, activities and events at the Centre as attractors. We want to meet and talk to the groups and individuals who are willing to help build the infrastructure for a permanent arts centre in Ajax-Pickering.
The Durham West Arts Centre is a two year pilot project dedicated to building support for a permanent arts centre. "We want to build arts groups a home," says Executive Director Angie Littlefield. "Whether you are a sculptor, dancer, actor, writer, musician, photographer - whatever your art medium - we want you to work with us to take the vision of a permanent arts centre from a concept to reality."
Gary Faulkner, the Centre's Project Manager, working on gathering data on the economic impact of the arts in Durham West, will soon contact individuals and groups. He needs your help to accumulate the data for a strong report to Ajax and Pickering Councils. April Polak, PRAC president and DWAC Assistant is working with a focus group to get input on what services an arts centre should provide. DWAC Board member Terry Green chairs a committee looking at the cost of building and sustaining an arts centre. "We'd like to put a shovel in the ground in the near future," says DWAC Chair, Edward Falkenberg, "and we've put resources in place to support that vision." "The number of memberships DWAC sells and the attendance at DWAC, PRAC and other community arts events all go towards making a convincing argument for a permanent arts centre," adds the Executive Director.
"We invite the entire community to attend the Durham West Art Centre's first Annual General Meeting on Oct. 19th starting at 7 p.m. at Sauter's Inn in Pickering Village. You will hear more about what part you can play in helping build a home for the arts." The Nick Cuda Duo and the Ethnocats entertain; there are light refreshments. The event is free.