Community Development

Reaching out and encouraging members of the community to become involved in the arts is an integral part of the raison d'être of AOE Arts Council.

To this end, over the years, AOE has partnered with professional artists, authors, choreographers, playwrights, poets, potters, videographers and weavers to create memorable and permanent community-involved projects that have encouraged the talents of people from all walks of life.

Community art project with glass artist Michel Martel
Shenkman Arts Centre Opening Weekend, 2009

AOE continues to focus its community development efforts on:

• Facilitating new arts initiatives: establishment of new groups, development of new arts programs
• Community art projects: creating art through public participation, with the guidance of a professional artist
• Youth development and youth-oriented programs and projects
• Professional development workshops designed to address the needs of the community and respond to current issues for artists and arts organizations
• Outreach programs and services
• Information to the public about local arts groups, artists and activities and programs