B
ecause it’s the right thing to do. That was the answer from an executive with 49th Parallel Grocery after the company agreed to sponsor a special regional art show (Surrounded by Water) on this month at the Cowichan Valley Arts Council (CVAC) gallery. The business-arts relationship has potential. Some businesses (such as the Valley Voice and all its advertisers) are well aware of the role of the arts in this community. Others may be impressed by the results of our recent Vancouver Island impact study (from Nordicity) that shows arts and culture contributed more than $650 million in total GDP in 2019. CVAC is one of the groups behind an inspiring presentation at the State of the Island Economic Summit (Oct. 27-28), organized annually by the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance (VIEA). The study results will be released and a panel will discuss options. The message is that arts and business sectors have an opportunity to collaborate beyond the familiar sponsorship agreements, a new relationship that could be more of a marriage than a handshake.
Image; Michael Dean
Business and Arts: More than a Fist Bump
While tourism groups highlight the wineries and the outdoor options in the Cowichan Valley, tourism studies show that seeing arts and culture is a top reason travellers choose a destination. And residents understand that arts groups enhance the experience of living in the Cowichan 14
Valley. The musicians and crafters at the Duncan Farmer’s Market, magnificent totem poles on the streets, art studio tours and galleries are just some of ways we are enriched as we go about daily routines. CVAC itself presents 30 art shows a year. That includes this month’s Surrounded by Water regional show of artwork from all over Vancouver Island. Our programs from Coast Salish drummaking (October 16), bird photography (October 13) and plein air painting (October 16) fill up right away, an indication of the high demand for creating art. You don’t have to be an artist to benefit. CVAC discussion groups and art opening events satisfy art buyers and art appreciators, too. What the arts sector wants is a regular voice at the planning table with business and government, not just a last-minute add-on. If we both say “I do,” we can create a powerful benefit for all. Susan Down is managing director of the Cowichan Valley Arts Council.
