Kelowna

The City of Kelowna is developing a new strategic cultural plan and looking for public input on how to position Kelowna as a leader in arts and culture.

To inspire creative thought, a unique public workshop, complete with cultural performances, will be held at the Kelowna Art Gallery on Wednesday September 22 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

“For this session we’re aiming to both engage and inspire,” says Sandra Kochan, Cultural Services Manager.

“Along with hearing from the public about their ideas, we’re looking forward to a spoken word performance from local artist Cameron Welch accompanied by a visual presentation from the Arts Council Youth Ambassadors.”

After the performances, facilitated discussion about the cultural vision, goals, and strategies will be led by plan consultant, Kari Huhtala.

“This has been an exciting process so far,” says Kochan.

“In August we hosted six focus groups with cultural stakeholders from all over the city. Based on what we heard in those sessions, there is a strong desire to see culture in Kelowna continue to blossom and be recognized as part of our community’s appealing lifestyle.”

Culture has been a municipal priority since the early 1990s.

Milestones include the development of cultural facilities such as the Rotary Centre for the Arts, the Cultural District, the Public Art Program and creation of a city branch dedicated to cultural services.

Those unable to make the event are encouraged to be a part of the Cultural Plan conversation on Facebook at facebook.com/KelownaCulturalPlan.

Link: Kelowna’s Cultural Plan