Two recently announced local arts funding initiatives are something to celebrate.
Firstly, the Island Arts Centre Society (IACS), which operates ArtSpring, has shared news about an endowment fund created earlier this year.
Thanks to the generosity of a bequest of stocks made by former IACS board chair George Ehring, who died suddenly in 2020, the fund was initiated on a firm footing. ArtSpring reports that five other major donations have already been added to the fund, which will be managed by the Victoria Foundation, putting it close to its initial $1-million target. However, some $30,000 is still needed to attain that goal, and ArtSpring’s board and staff encourage donations of any size to ensure a successful campaign by the end of August.
Establishing an endowment fund has a secondary benefit of qualifying for matching funds through Canadian Heritage, a federal government agency. Once the fund grows to its ultimate $5-million level, it is expected to bring in $250,000 in revenue annually, which will go a long way to ensuring fiscal stability for the arts centre.
The second news item about funding for the arts comes from the Salt Spring National Art Prize (SSNAP) Society. Again thanks to the generosity of community members who appreciate the arts and their positive impact, some $100,000 per year for three years will be made available for Southern Gulf Islands visual artists through SSNAP’s Catalyst Grants. Funding comes from The Wilding Foundation, a Salt Spring-based entity that supports other charities, with encouraging “skill development through the creative interplay of technology and art” being one area of focus. The foundation has supported the Salt Spring Public Library’s FabLab, the high school robotics club, Graffiti Theatre and Salt Spring Arts. Foundation spokesperson Ethan Wilding said the Catalyst Grants are seen as “a crucial investment in the cultural and economic vitality of the community.” Individuals are also welcome to donate to The Wilding Foundation.
ArtSpring, SSNAP, Salt Spring Arts and other artistic entities contribute immeasurably to our quality of life. Individuals and foundations willing and able to provide financial resources to local groups deserve our appreciation and support.