For the Arts

The Boards of Trade have a vision that we hope will be a reality. It is our desire to create a premier art event that will draw a great deal of positive attention to the work of our creative citizens. Those of us who have little or no artistic ability are blessed to live here where it is such an integral part of our community. Even our Board of Trade is fortunate to have many members who have these enviable talents. But there are also many in the community who have excelled in their chosen medium.

You have all read about the upcoming trade liaison to Scotland, but that is just the first part of the plan. We will be hosting a return visit of our Scottish friends in June of 2007, As part of the return visit we will be sponsoring an artist’s showcase. One of the Digby Area Board of Trade members, Maureen Gauthier has agreed to chair/facilitate this event. She will need your help if this is to be successful.

In her letter that we are carrying with us to Scotland as part of our invitation to encourage them to come to Nova Scotia she writes:"The colours and textures of Nova Scotia’s history, the warp and weft of our lives, the light of our future hopes and dreams, and the very stuff of this fertile land itself, provide the inspiration and materials for the many exceptional artists, writers and crafts people that live and work here. Promoted and supported by local arts organizations, Boards of Trade and several regional arts councils, our creative people fashion everything functional to fanciful from the never-ending story of where we’ve been and our limitless horizon. From words to weaving, painting to pottery, sculpture to stained glass, needlework to knitting and everything in between, the warmth of a Nova Scotia welcome links all of our hand crafted creations and extends this welcome to you."

As the creative process is at times challenging, those of you who wish to participate could perhaps be thinking about the creations you would like to display. Further if there is any person who would like to help Maureen with this onerous task, I am sure she would be very appreciative.

Mark this in your calendar. The 1st Annual Business Awards of Excellence Dinner will be held on October 18th at the Annapolis Basin Conference Centre, 6:30 for 7 p.m. The Guest Speaker is Darce Fardy, former CBC journalist, the first review officer appointed to provide independent oversight over the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act in Nova Scotia, and founder of the Right to Know Coalition of Nova Scotia. There are still tickets available. Kristy@ns.sympatico.ca