Cheque presentations are usually ho-hum photo opportunities, but expect something more creative from the Centre for the Arts here.
Its officials used pumpkins and fall flowers as a set decoration to formally receive a cheque on Oct. 16 from the Ontario Arts Council.
The money can be used for anything to do with the operation of the Arts Centre, from paying salaries to paying the heat and lighting bills.
General Manager Arlene Saunders explained why the grant was so important.
“Most other grants don’t cover those things. So It’s a real bonus getting an operating grant.”
She said the money would be used for “anything and everything.”
The grant from the provincial organization is for visual and media arts and artist-run centres and organizations.
The grant was the first of its type from any organizations, and organizers were pleased to note that the local centre was the only small town place to receive one.
Most of the other grants were presented to city-run operations.
Organizers are also hoping that they will be able to receive further grants in the future.
Centre Wellington councillor Kirk McElwain, pinch-hitting for Mayor Joanne Ross-Zuj who could not attend, told the group, “The citizens of Centre Wellington are honoured to have you in their midst. Keep up the good work. Keep up the grant applications.”
