Mission Statement
Estevan Arts Council ~ Visual Arts, Koncerts for Kids, Stars for Saskatchewan, Energy City Film Circuit ~
PROMOTING THE ARTS IN OUR COMMUNITY
As recorded in the Estevan City Bylaw: The functions of the Estevan Arts Council shall be as follows:
- To study, analyze and promote the cause of the arts as a cultural attribute to the City of Estevan and its citizens.
- To cooperate, when required, with existing and future organizations interested in the arts and to coordinate their activities so as to best promote and stimulate an interest in a comprehensive and considered plan for the promotion of the arts, and to establish policies, standards and interest in the arts.
EAC's Mandate
(Part of a by-law which created the Arts Council)
4. THE FUNCTIONS of the Arts Council shall be as follows:
(a) To study, analyze and promote the cause of art as a cultural attribute to the City of Estevan and its citizens;
(b) To co-operate, when required, with existing and future organizations interested in the various fields of art and to co-ordinate their activities so as to best promote and stimulate an interest in a comprehensive and considered plan for the promotion of the arts, and to establish policies, standards, and interest in the various fields of the Arts.
Estevan Arts Council History
The Estevan Arts Council was established in 1967. Its purpose was to promote art and cultural activities in Estevan.
Over the years, the Stars for Saskatchewan, under the Estevan Arts Council, has presented hundreds of performances, including some of the best known names in Canada, as well as outstanding performers from other countries. Classical artists of international fame have included Jon Vickers, Maureen Forrester, The Canadian Brass, Lois Marshall, The Winnipeg Ballet, and Leona Boyd. Pop artists Frank Mills, Haygood Hardy, and Moe Kauffman have also been presented. Residents of Estevan and area have been able to attend concerts usually available only in major centers..
The Koncerts for Kids family series has started many youngsters in the habit of enjoyable concert going - something that will enrich their lives for years to come. The series in Estevan is the most successful in the province, with an excellent attendance record.
The Visual Arts Committee serves the function of an Arts and Crafts Director for the city. A full program of classes is offered each year for children and adults. This has not only provided a positive recreational activity, but has encouraged the development of talent in the various art forms. This requires a great deal of organizational time and many volunteer hours are contributed.
The Estevan Arts Council has also partnered with the Orpheum Theatre to bring to the community the Energy City Film Circuit. This film circuit started in March 2010, and the films are brought in and shown monthly, with the exception of the summer months. The films are from the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the committee shows a total of 8-9 films throughout the year.
The Arts Council has sponsored an Artist in Residence in the past. There has been instructors in clay that has led to the establishment of a thriving pottery club. This has reached not only adults in our community but youth have been involved in our classes. Other artists in residences have included authors and sculptors.
The Estevan Arts Council also has added a mentorship performing arts program for youth ages 13-29 called SPARK. This program is an outreach program where an experienced volunteer in performing arts mentors a younger person to learn out to organize and present a performing arts performance in the community. This program brings a younger perspective and ideas to the whole process, and reaches out to the young demographic in our area.