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About the Arts Council of the Central Okanagan
In 1966, the Canadian Federation of University Women developed ARTSCO, a non-profit society with a high reaching goal of promoting the arts in Kelowna through education, action and advocacy.
Over the years, ARTSCO helped to establish many firsts in the Central Okanagan Region by lobbying for arts programmes at the Okanagan University College, supporting the development of art groups and organizations, sponsoring many cultural events, and nurturing municipal cultural policy to include a great regard for all of the above.
Fueled by a committed team of volunteers and a board of directors, the Arts Council has promoted the Arts Community by hosting Juried Art Shows where local artists have their work showcased.
ARTSCO has contributed efforts towards the Okanagan Symphony - the Youth and BC Drama Festivals - Kelowna Musical Society. Founded events such as the yearly Big Craft Fair.
Not limited to only a few art forms, the Arts Council founded 'On Stage at Noon' with Erin Macklem, a series of outdoor concerts in Kerry Park at lunchtime that was eventually taken over by Parks Alive.
ARTSCO is also devoted to helping artists begin their careers. There are bursaries and grants that are dispersed to emerging artists, and awards given to students at grade school levels.
Local artists such as the Grapes of Wrath, Lee Claremont, Mayumi Hatano and Yoko Uemoto have been boosted to professional status with the help of funding and awareness generated by the Arts Council.
New hands in our efforts are always welcome to help create a thriving Arts Community in the Central Okanagan. If you are interested in contributing, feel free to Call (250)861-4123,email, or come by and visit. Our doors are open in 'morning' business hours or by appointment at 8-1304 Ellis St. Kelowna.
Our main website.
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