CHESTER, NOVA SCOTIA--(Marketwired - July 21, 2015) - Department of Canadian Heritage

Parliamentary Secretary Gerald Keddy, on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), today announced funding totalling $115,783 for the Chester Art Centre Association.

The Chester Art Centre Association will receive $75,569 in funding through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund for the renovation and expansion of the Centre, both indoors and outdoors. The expanded centre will be able to offer more programs and accommodate a higher volume of people.

Funding of $2,000, provided under the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program, will allow the Centre to present the 8^th edition of the Chester Art Festival. This celebration of arts and heritage includes performances and demonstrations by local artists and artisans, children's activities, and an art exhibit.

The Government of Canada is also providing $38,214, through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program to assist with upgrades and improvements to the Association's art centre home. Work will include expansions to the building, creation of an accessible washroom and the improvement of lighting throughout the space.

Quick Facts

• The Chester Art Centre, founded in 2007, is the only visual arts centre in the community and provides year-round quality arts programming. The non-profit organization focuses on engaging the residents of Chester in art and creating an environment of learning.
• Community organizations, such as those representing youth and senior citizens, will have access to the expanded facilities at the Centre. The enlarged Centre will help further establish the seaside village of Chester as a cultural hub.
• The Chester Art Festival will take place from August 7 to 15. About 50 local artists and artisans will feature their work during the festival.

Quotes

"I am pleased that our Government supports organizations like the Chester Art Centre Association. Our investments enable them to improve their facilities and to offer continued rich cultural experiences to Canadians. We recognize that arts and cultural organizations strengthen our communities, boost the local economy and enrich the quality of life of Canadians."

-Gerald Keddy, Member of Parliament (South Shore-St. Margaret's), on behalf of The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)

"The Chester Art Centre is the only year-round visual arts organization in the Municipality of Chester. To accommodate the growing demand for our programs, we plan to renovate and expand the existing building. The substantial funding contribution from the Government of Canada for this dynamic project enables our organization to increase the number of rich art experiences and events in our region, allowing us to contribute to a vibrant cultural community."

-David Miller, Chair, Chester Art Centre

Associated Links

Chester Art Centre

Chester Art Festival

Canada Cultural Spaces Fund

Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program

Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program

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